Martin Kaste
Stories
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National
Tribal courts can't prosecute non-Native drug suspects. Tribes say it's a problem
As the fentanyl crisis ravages Native American communities, some of their leaders want tribal police and courts to go after non-tribal dealers. But they can't without getting permission from Congress.
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National
Michigan court rules parents can share criminal responsibility for child's gun crimes
The trial of Jennifer Crumbley over murders committed by her son, Ethan, has focused attention on the legal responsibilities of parents and other adults when it comes to minors and guns.
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National
It's peak shopping — and shoplifting — season. Bellevue cops are stepping up antitheft tactics
Merchants say retail thefts have become more frequent and brazen. Law enforcement is now putting more money into things like store stakeouts and task forces that track organized retail crime rings.
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National
The governor tried banning guns in Albuquerque. The public health emergency continues
N.M. Gov. Michelle Luhan Grisham's temporary ban on guns in the Albuquerque area caused a political firestorm. The ban, since scaled back, faces legal challenges. Meanwhile, shootings haven't stopped.
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National
U.S. cops may start using a weapon that shoots a cord to wrap around a person's knees
A comic book-worthy device is the latest entry into the market for "less lethal" police weapons. The company promises safer arrests, but part of the appeal for departments may be the optics.
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National
The overall murder rate in the U.S. may finally be dropping, early data suggest
Law enforcement has been on alert for outbursts of gun violence over the weekend and holiday, but early statistics from big cities suggest the overall murder rate may finally be going down.
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National
At least $200 billion in pandemic aid went to fraudsters, federal watchdog estimates
Fraudsters stole billions from the Small Business Administration, via the pandemic-era "Paycheck Protection Program." On Tuesday, the SBA's inspector general releases its how much was stolen and how.
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Politics
Over $200 billion in pandemic business loans appear to be fraudulent, a watchdog says
The Office of Inspector General of the Small Business Administration has released a "landscape of fraud" report highlighting why 17% of PPP and other loans appear bogus.
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National
DOJ report finds systemic patterns of abuse by the Minneapolis Police Department
The Justice Department, city and police will begin negotiations to set the terms of a consent decree, which will bring federal oversight to police
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National
Courts have long seen K-9 dogs as impartial. Now police bodycams hold them accountable
Police body cameras have increased accountability for K-9 units, making it easier for defendants to claim unconstitutional searches. A federal lawsuit in Texas illustrates the new dynamic.