by Laghe Andrews | Sep 29, 2023 | Latest, Social Justice |
Photo by Sebastian Pichler on Unsplash
A Louisiana judge has recently made a groundbreaking decision in the realm of juvenile justice, ordering the transfer of young inmates from a maximum-security facility to a more suitable environment. This action resonates as a significant stride towards social justice, particularly for those who have been advocating for the rights of incarcerated minors.
The Backdrop of the Decision
The Louisiana State Penitentiary, colloquially known as Angola, has been housing youth inmates under inhumane conditions. The penitentiary, infamous for its maximum-security status, has been the subject of numerous lawsuits and protests against its treatment of minors.
“The conditions at Angola were more than just harsh – they were downright cruel and unusual.” – Advocate for Juvenile Justice
Federal Judge Shelly Dick, the Louisiana judge in question, ruled in favor of a civil lawsuit brought against the state by advocates and family members of the incarcerated minors. On a momentous day in September, she ordered state officials to execute the transfer of these young inmates.
Parental and Advocacy Outcry
Parents and advocates have long argued against the placement of minors in Angola. The prison, which operated as a slave plantation in the past, is known for its sweltering heat and harsh conditions. They argued that it was inappropriate for minors to be housed in such an environment.
Angola: A Glimpse into its History
Angola, once a slave plantation, was converted into a prison during the Civil War before becoming a death row facility for adults. The prison is recognized as the largest maximum-security facility in the country, with the capacity to house over 5000 offenders.
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Louisiana has been active in this fight for justice. David Utter, the lead counsel on the case, issued a statement voicing the demand for investment in children, not punishment. He called upon Louisiana’s leaders to address the systemic failures in the state’s juvenile justice system.
The Deadline for Justice
The state has been given a deadline until the middle of September to rehouse the youth. This decision is a significant step toward ensuring that all children — Black, Brown, and white — have equal access to opportunity and justice.
The Louisiana judge’s ruling serves as a beacon of hope for youth inmates and a victory for social justice advocates. As the story unfolds, it remains to be seen how the state responds and what further steps will be taken to protect the rights of incarcerated minors.
by Diontae Bussey | Sep 5, 2023 | Business News, Latest |
Image Credit: Photo by Andrey Metelev on Unsplash
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has stepped into the world of non-fungible tokens (NFTs), making its first enforcement action against a company in this space. The company in question is Impact Theory, a Los Angeles-based media company, which has been accused of selling unregistered securities in the form of NFTs. This case has sent ripples across the industry, providing insights into how NFTs could be regulated in the future.
The SEC’s Lawsuit: A Brief Overview
In a landmark move, the SEC is suing an NFT project, marking the first time the authority has taken enforcement action against a company for selling unregistered NFTs. The case revolves around Impact Theory, an LA media company that allegedly encouraged potential investors to view the purchase of their Founder’s Key NFT project as an investment into the business. The SEC order stated that the digital assets offered to investors were deemed “investment contracts” and therefore “securities.”
The Allegations
According to the SEC, Impact Theory “encouraged potential investors to view the purchase of Founder’s Key [the company’s NFT project] as an investment into the business, stating that investors would profit from their purchases if Impact Theory was successful in its efforts.” This, the SEC argues, means that the digital assets offered to investors were in effect “investment contracts” and therefore should be classified as “securities.”
The Settlement
Impact Theory neither admitted nor denied the SEC’s findings but agreed to pay more than $6.1 million in penalties to settle the allegations. The settlement also established a “Fair Fund” to compensate impacted investors. As part of the agreement, Impact Theory was required to destroy all of its Founder’s Key NFTs and eliminate any royalties it might collect from secondary market transactions.
Impact on the Crypto Industry
This case is significant to the crypto industry, which has been hit with a flurry of regulatory clampdowns in the U.S. It offers a clue for how NFTs could be regulated in the future, particularly as many other NFT projects have used language similar to how Impact Theory marketed its digital assets, touting their blockchain-based identifiers as investment opportunities.
Future Implications
Many other NFT projects have used language similar to how Impact Theory marketed its digital assets. These projects have touted their blockchain-based identifiers representing digital asset ownership as investment opportunities. The SEC’s action against Impact Theory could set a precedent for how these projects are regulated in the future.
Impact Theory’s Response
Despite the SEC’s allegations and subsequent settlement, Impact Theory is not giving up on its NFT endeavor. In a post, the founder of Impact Theory stressed that his company will ensure its future digital assets will be for utility rather than financial purposes.
The Founder’s Statement
“We will operate our go-forward business consistent with our good faith best understanding of all applicable laws, rules, and regulations. We will make clear that all of Impact Theory’s digital assets are collectibles with utility within the exciting new landscape of Borderless Entertainment. We will forcefully discourage people from treating our digital assets as anything other than what they are–collectibles with utility. We will have more news on this in the coming weeks and months.”
Conclusion
As the SEC’s first enforcement action against an NFT project, this case is a watershed moment in the crypto industry. It is a stark reminder of the regulatory complexities at play in this space and underscores the need for companies to ensure they are following all relevant laws, rules, and regulations. It remains to be seen how this case will impact the regulation of other NFT projects and the broader crypto industry in the future.
by Waqar | Aug 25, 2023 | Latest, Music News, New Music Alert |
Rapper Prodigy from the group Mobb Deep made an appearance at MTV studios for a taping of MTV 2 Presents Sucker Free Week on April 6, 2006, in New York City.
Introduction
Havoc, one-half of the iconic hip-hop duo Mobb Deep, has recently announced that a new album is in the works. This highly anticipated project will feature unreleased verses from their late groupmate, Prodigy. The news has sent shockwaves through the music industry and has fans eagerly awaiting the release of this album. In a recent interview on the People’s Party podcast, Havoc shared his plans for the future, including his work on the Mobb Deep album and other exciting collaborations.
A New Chapter for Mobb Deep
During his appearance on the People’s Party podcast, Havoc revealed that he is actively working on a Mobb Deep album. This announcement has brought hope and excitement to fans who have been longing for new music from the iconic duo. Havoc expressed his dedication to the project, stating that he has been blessed with a collection of unreleased vocals by Prodigy. These vocals will undoubtedly add a unique and powerful element to the album, allowing fans to once again experience the raw talent and lyrical genius of Prodigy.
Continuing the Legacy
The passing of Prodigy in June 2017 was a devastating loss for the music industry and for Mobb Deep fans worldwide. Prodigy was known for his distinctive voice, thought-provoking lyrics, and his ability to captivate listeners with his storytelling abilities. Despite his untimely death, his legacy continues to live on through his music. The upcoming Mobb Deep album will serve as a testament to Prodigy’s enduring influence and will allow fans to cherish his artistry once again.
Unreleased Verses from Prodigy
One of the most exciting aspects of the upcoming Mobb Deep album is the inclusion of unreleased verses from Prodigy. These previously unheard lyrics will provide a glimpse into the creative process of one of hip-hop’s most talented artists. Fans can expect a mix of nostalgia and fresh material as they listen to Prodigy’s powerful words and storytelling abilities. It is a rare opportunity to witness the evolution of an artist even after their passing, and this album will undoubtedly be a cherished addition to Prodigy’s discography.
Collaborations and Future Projects
In addition to the Mobb Deep album, Havoc has also been working on other exciting collaborations. During his interview on the People’s Party podcast, he revealed that he is working on a joint album with Wu-Tang Clan member Method Man. This collaboration between two legendary hip-hop artists is highly anticipated and is sure to be a standout project. Havoc is also collaborating with RJ PAYNE and Ras Kass on a separate project, further showcasing his versatility and dedication to creating innovative music.
Mobb Deep’s Legacy and Discography
Mobb Deep has left an indelible mark on the hip-hop landscape with their unique sound and gritty storytelling. Throughout their career, they released eight studio albums, including the critically acclaimed “The Infamous,” “Hell on Earth,” “Murda Muzik,” and “Infamy.” These albums showcased the duo’s ability to paint vivid pictures of their experiences growing up in Queens, New York, and resonated with audiences worldwide. Their most recent album, “The Infamous Mobb Deep,” was released in 2014, three years prior to Prodigy’s passing. The upcoming album will serve as a continuation of their legacy and a testament to their enduring impact on the genre.
Seeking Justice for Prodigy
In 2018, Prodigy’s family filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the Spring Valley Medical Center and one of its physicians. The lawsuit alleges that the hospital failed to provide adequate care to Prodigy, leading to his untimely death. The family’s pursuit of justice highlights the importance of proper medical care and the need for accountability within the healthcare system. While the lawsuit is ongoing, it serves as a reminder of the tragic
circumstances surrounding Prodigy’s passing and the need to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
Anticipation and Excitement
The announcement of a new Mobb Deep album with unreleased Prodigy verses has sparked anticipation and excitement among fans and the music community. The album will undoubtedly be a celebration of Mobb Deep’s legacy and a testament to their enduring impact on hip-hop. With Havoc at the helm, fans can rest assured that the project will be a labor of love, honoring Prodigy’s memory and showcasing the timeless talent of Mobb Deep. As the release date approaches, fans eagerly await the opportunity to immerse themselves in the powerful lyrics and captivating storytelling that Mobb Deep is known for.
Conclusion
Havoc’s announcement of a new Mobb Deep album with unreleased Prodigy verses has reignited the flame of excitement among fans. This highly anticipated project promises to be a celebration of Mobb Deep’s legacy and a testament to the enduring impact of Prodigy’s artistry. As fans eagerly await the release of the album, they can take solace in the fact that Havoc is dedicated to preserving the authenticity and raw talent that made Mobb Deep legendary. The upcoming album will undoubtedly solidify Mobb Deep’s place in hip-hop history, ensuring that their music continues to inspire and resonate with audiences for years to come.
by Derrick T Lewis | Aug 24, 2023 | Latest, Social Justice |
Investigative work by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) into the behavior of law enforcement officers in a Northern California precinct has resulted in a series of indictments. The probe, initiated one and a half years ago, scrutinized the officers’ use of force, examined their text messages, and considered complaints lodged by local residents.
On a specific Friday (18th of August), the US Attorney’s Office located in the Northern District of California made an announcement. It stated that a federal grand jury in San Francisco had returned four indictments. These charges were against ten individuals—both current and former officers and employees of the Antioch and Pittsburg precincts.
The Charges
The Antioch officers—Morteza Amiri, Eric Rombough, and Devon Wenger—were each slapped with several charges. These included conspiracy against rights, deprivation of rights under color of law, and the destruction/falsification of records related to federal investigations.
Their alleged misconduct involved discussions about their plans to employ excessive force against citizens. They also unnecessarily deployed K-9s, and other violent actions that were labeled “less lethal”. The indictment, in its 29 pages, also revealed that they shared photos of injured suspects via text. These images were accompanied by messages such as “Yeah buddy, good boy pursy” and “F**k that turd.”
Previous Reports
Earlier in May, REVOLT reported that over a dozen Antioch officers were identified in the FBI’s probe. This investigation was looking into a series of racist texts that dated back to 2019. The messages were described as abhorrent and reprehensible. They depicted an “entrenched culture of hatred, racism, homophobia, misogyny, and violence” within the department. Later in that month, a civil lawsuit was filed against the precinct. This was done on the behalf of five residents and a relative of a man who was fatally shot by an officer.
Mayor’s Response
The Mayor of Antioch, Lamar Thorpe, took to a press conference to discuss the grand jury’s decisions. “To those that have accused me and others of being anti-police for seeking to reform the Antioch Police Department, today’s arrests are demonstrative of the issues that have plagued the Antioch Police Department for decades,” Thorpe said, as reported by NBC Bay Area.
Other Indictments
Amiri is also one of five officers implicated in a college fund fraud indictment. This includes charges for conspiracy to commit wire fraud and wire fraud. Wegner is one of two named in a steroid distribution indictment. This includes conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute anabolic steroids, and destruction, alteration, and falsification of records in federal investigations. A fourth obstruction indictment lists one officer, Timothy Manly Williams, along with deprivation of rights, obstruction of official proceedings, and the alteration, and falsification of records in federal investigations.
by Jonathan P-Wright | Jul 31, 2023 | Latest, Social Justice |
Photo by Sirisvisual on Unsplash
In a bold move against the Los Angeles Police Department, a prominent Black filmmaker is breaking his silence and taking legal action following a disturbing incident involving law enforcement officers. Damien Smith, an acclaimed documentary filmmaker, is shedding light on an encounter with the police in 2021 that left him deeply affected and compelled to pursue justice.
Speaking exclusively with the LA Times, Damien Smith shared his harrowing experience, which he believes was tainted by racial bias. The incident occurred on a fateful day in October 2021 when Smith returned to his apartment only to find an intruder unlawfully holding his belongings. Despite the seriousness of the situation, Smith chose to call 911, believing that justice and safety would be upheld.
However, what followed was an unexpected and distressing turn of events. When the police arrived at the scene, instead of apprehending the intruder, they subjected Smith to multiple taser shocks, leaving him in shock and disbelief. As a filmmaker actively working on a project addressing police brutality, Smith couldn’t help but wonder if there was a racial component to the way he was treated by law enforcement.
Once the officers confirmed Smith’s residency, they promptly released him, but no apologies were offered for the unjust use of force. Meanwhile, the intruder, Demani Coats, was later arrested and convicted of burglary in July 2022, raising further questions about the disproportionate actions taken against Smith.
In response to this traumatic incident and the subsequent lack of accountability, Damien Smith made the difficult decision to file a lawsuit against the Los Angeles Police Department. The lawsuit reflects the physical and emotional toll the encounter had on him, citing injuries to his chest, back, and nervous system, as well as the immense embarrassment and public ridicule he endured.
The allegations against the department are serious, encompassing charges of false arrest, assault, battery, intentional infliction of mental distress, and violation of civil rights. Smith is determined to hold the police accountable for their actions and highlight the urgent need for proper training to prevent similar incidents from happening to others.
For Damien Smith, this lawsuit is not just about seeking compensation or retribution; it is a plea for justice and an urgent call for change. As a filmmaker who has devoted his career to shedding light on social injustices, he now finds himself at the center of the very narrative he has been capturing on film. His courage to speak out against the injustice he experienced is inspiring a broader conversation about the need for comprehensive reform within law enforcement agencies.
The story of Damien Smith resonates deeply with the broader social justice movement, drawing attention to the ongoing struggle for racial equity and accountability in policing. His unwavering commitment to seeking justice serves as a rallying point for those advocating for change and a reminder that there is still much work to be done to achieve a more just and equitable society.
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