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Housemates charged with murder of missing teen Pheobe Bishop

<p>Two housemates of missing teenager Pheobe Bishop have been charged with her murder, exactly three weeks after she vanished on her way to the airport in what police have called a suspicious disappearance.</p> <p>James Wood, 34, and Tanika Bromley, 33, were arrested in the Bundaberg area on Thursday night. They have each been charged with one count of murder and two counts of interfering with a corpse.</p> <p>Despite the arrests, Queensland Police said Pheobe’s remains have not yet been found.</p> <p>“The remains of Pheobe Bishop have not been located to date,” police said in a statement late Thursday. “Detectives continue to investigate this matter, and physical searches will continue as needed as information is provided.”</p> <p>Wood and Bromley are expected to appear in Bundaberg Magistrates Court on Friday.</p> <p>Seventeen-year-old Pheobe was last seen near Bundaberg Airport at around 8:30am on May 15. She had booked a flight to Western Australia to visit her boyfriend but never checked in, and CCTV confirmed she never entered the terminal.</p> <p>Her disappearance triggered a major police search across parts of southern Queensland, including the Gin Gin property where she lived with Wood and Bromley. That house, along with a grey Hyundai ix35 believed to have been used to take her to the airport, was declared a crime scene early in the investigation.</p> <p>The search also extended to Good Night Scrub National Park, about an hour from Bundaberg. Cadaver dogs, divers, and homicide detectives combed the remote bushland, seizing items believed to be linked to the case. Police believe some evidence may have been removed from the area before their arrival.</p> <p>Wood was briefly taken into custody on Wednesday before being released without charge – until his re-arrest the following evening.</p> <p>Both he and Bromley had previously faced unrelated weapons charges.</p> <p>Pheobe’s mother, Kylie Johnson, has been posting emotional updates on social media since her daughter disappeared, pleading for answers and clinging to hope. On Thursday night, after news of the murder charges broke, she said her family had been “shattered”.</p> <p>“Our world has just been shattered into the most horrific place I’ve ever been,” she wrote. “I need my baby home to put her to rest! I’m absolutely begging anyone that knows anything to come forward. We need to put her to rest, we need to put her to peace.”</p> <p>Throughout the past three weeks, Johnson has shared memories of Pheobe. “I don’t know if life will ever be the same again,” she wrote on Wednesday. “The emotional connection, love and friendship has always been unmatched and unquestioned.”</p> <p>Police have urged anyone with information about Pheobe’s disappearance or the whereabouts of her remains to come forward as the investigation continues.</p> <p><em>Images: Facebook / Qld Police</em></p>

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Dad of three identified and charged after parade rampage

<p>A 53-year-old man has been charged with seven offences following a shocking incident in which a car rammed into crowds celebrating Liverpool Football Club’s Premier League title earlier this week.</p> <p>Paul Doyle, a businessman and former Royal Marine, was named by police on Thursday as the driver of a Ford Galaxy that struck dozens of people gathered in central Liverpool on Monday evening. Merseyside Police confirmed Doyle faces charges including dangerous driving and causing grievous bodily harm with intent.</p> <p>Authorities reported that 79 people, aged between nine and 78, were injured in the incident. While no fatalities were reported, seven people remained in hospital as of Thursday.</p> <p>The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said the decision to charge Doyle followed a “complex and ongoing investigation” involving numerous witness statements and video evidence. “It is important to ensure every victim gets the justice they deserve,” said Sarah Hammond of the CPS.</p> <p>Assistant Chief Constable Jenny Sims said Doyle has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear before Liverpool Magistrates’ Court on Friday.</p> <p>Footage from the chaotic scene showed the car ploughing through crowds, with several people seen bouncing off the bonnet. Four individuals, including a child, were trapped beneath the vehicle and had to be rescued by emergency crews.</p> <p>The shocking turn of events occurred as hundreds of thousands of Liverpool supporters filled the streets to mark their club's record-equalling 20th English top-flight title. What began as a jubilant evening of celebration quickly descended into panic and horror.</p> <p>In the aftermath, police were quick to dismiss any links to terrorism, and in an unusual step, confirmed that the suspect was a white British man in order to counter online misinformation.</p> <p>UK media identified Doyle as a resident of a quiet Liverpool suburb, where he lived with his wife – a schoolteacher – and their three teenage children. According to neighbours, Doyle's wife only discovered his involvement after seeing images of their car on the news.</p> <p>Police have maintained a presence outside the family’s four-bedroom home since Monday.</p> <p>Doyle was initially arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and driving under the influence of drugs, although these charges were not formally included. Prosecutors noted that all charges remain under review as the investigation continues.</p> <p>“This investigation is far from over,” Hammond said. “We are committed to uncovering the full circumstances of what happened.”</p> <p><em>Images: Facebook</em></p>

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Man charged with murder over house fire that killed 80-year-old

<p>A 50-year-old man has been arrested and charged with murder following a deadly house fire that claimed the life of an 80-year-old man in Sydney’s inner west.</p> <p>Emergency services were called to the scene of the ferocious blaze on Irrara Street in Croydon at around 4am on Wednesday. The fire was so intense that it caused the roof of the single-storey brick home to collapse, forcing firefighters to retreat as they battled the flames.</p> <p>The body of Ted Grantham, 80, was found inside the property. He has been remembered by loved ones as a gentle and devoted family man who dedicated his life to music and service in the church, where he played the organ.</p> <p>Following the fire, a major police operation was launched to locate a man who also lived at the residence and was related to the victim. He was tracked down overnight in Woy Woy, on the NSW Central Coast, and was found to be carrying a concealed machete at the time of his arrest.</p> <p>The man has since been charged with murder.</p> <p>“This has been an intensive few hours to locate a man we believe can assist with our inquiries into what we allege is a suspicious fire,” said Superintendent Christine McDonald. “It really is tragic.”</p> <p>An elderly woman, believed to have left the home about three hours before the fire began, is also assisting police with their investigation. Authorities have confirmed that the victim, the arrested man, and the elderly woman are all related.</p> <p>Six fire trucks and nearly two dozen firefighters responded to the emergency, gaining entry through the back of the property due to the “intense” flames engulfing the front of the house. Video footage taken after the blaze shows the roof collapsed and extensive fire damage throughout the home.</p> <p>Superintendent McDonald said police are in contact with devastated family members. Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the fire continue.</p> <p><em>Images: Facebook</em></p>

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Qld mother charged with murder of toddler daughter

<p>A Central Queensland community is reeling after a mother was charged with the alleged murder of her three-year-old daughter in a shocking incident that unfolded in the front yard of a home in Moore Park Beach, near Bundaberg.</p> <p>Lauren Ingrid Flanigan, 32, was arrested on Monday afternoon after emergency services responded to multiple triple-zero calls from concerned neighbours. Police and paramedics arrived at the Regency Road residence just before 5pm, where they discovered the young girl with multiple stab wounds. Despite their best efforts, she was pronounced dead at the scene.</p> <p>Flanigan, who was allegedly found by police in the front yard, was taken into custody and later charged with one count of murder. She did not appear in Bundaberg Magistrates Court on Tuesday when her case was briefly mentioned.</p> <p>The child's father, who was away for work at the time of the incident, has since returned home and is said to be devastated. Two other young children, aged one and two, were inside the home during the incident but were unharmed. They are now in the care of family members.</p> <p>Acting Superintendent Brad Inskip, visibly emotional during a press conference, described the scene as "horrific" and said a knife was recovered from the property, which has since been declared a crime scene. Forensic and scientific officers are continuing their investigation.</p> <p>“This is not something any of us ever want to attend,” Inskip said. “It’s a terrible, terrible incident for everybody involved —–the witnesses, the neighbours and the first responders.”</p> <p>Flanigan had previously shared her joy about becoming a mother on social media. In 2021, she posted photos of her baby bump during her pregnancy, expressing excitement about the journey to motherhood. “16 weeks pregnant and totally loving becoming your mama my sweet girl,” she wrote in one post. In another, she called becoming a mum a “rapid transformation in every way.”</p> <p>Photos from her online presence also show the child smiling with her parents and celebrating her first birthday in 2022 with a rose-decorated cake.</p> <p>Flanigan had also been vocal online about causes such as domestic violence awareness and the importance of flexible work options for mothers.</p> <p>Inskip said police are working closely with the Bundaberg Regional Council and community services to offer welfare support to those affected, including emergency responders and neighbours.</p> <p>“This has shocked the entire community,” he said. “Support is available, and we encourage anyone impacted to seek help.”</p> <p>Flanigan remains in custody, and investigations into the incident are ongoing.</p> <p><em><strong>Support is available from the National Sexual Assault, Domestic and Family Violence Counselling Service at 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732).</strong></em></p> <p><em>Images: Facebook / Instagram</em></p>

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Mother charged after fatally crashing car through school fence

<p>In a moment that has shattered hearts and silenced a vibrant community, an ordinary school day at Auburn South Primary turned into a scene of unimaginable tragedy on October 29, 2024. A car, driven by a 40-year-old mother from Hawthorn East, veered off the road and crashed through the school's fence, ploughing into a group of Year 5 students during recess.</p> <p>Among those struck was 11-year-old Jack Davey – a much-loved son, brother and friend. Despite efforts to save him, Jack was critically injured and died on the way to the hospital. Four other children – two 11-year-old girls, a 10-year-old girl, and a 10-year-old boy – were also seriously hurt, sustaining broken bones and significant upper body injuries.</p> <p>The woman behind the wheel had just picked up her own child from the school and was allegedly attempting a U-turn when the vehicle lost control. Both she and her child were unharmed. The driver, a recently licensed P-plater, was arrested at the scene but initially released. Now she has been formally charged with careless driving and failing to maintain proper control of a motor vehicle.</p> <p>Jack has been remembered as a bright light – a talented athlete, a member of several local sports clubs and a child whose laughter and energy lifted everyone around him. His parents, in a heartbreaking statement, expressed the depth of their grief: “We find comfort in reading the many messages and memories of Jack and how his life and energy was a positive influence on so many in the community at just 11 years old,” his father said. “Personally, he is our champion. He is our beloved son and brother who remains very much alive in our hearts and memories as we piece together our lives with his spirit going forward.”</p> <p>The tragedy has touched far beyond the school gates. An online fundraiser created in Jack’s memory has raised more than $290,000, as people across Melbourne and beyond rally around his grieving family.</p> <p><em>Images: Victorian Department of Education</em></p>

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Mother charged with murder after deadly house fire kills three children

<p>A 36-year-old Queensland mother has been charged with multiple counts of murder after a devastating house fire in Toowoomba claimed the lives of three of her children, in what police believe was a deliberately lit blaze.</p> <p>The fatal fire broke out just after midnight last Wednesday at the family's home in Harristown, engulfing the property before emergency services could bring it under control. When fire crews arrived, the house was already consumed by flames.</p> <p>Tragically, a young boy was found dead near the front door of the home. His two sisters, also young children, were rescued from the fire in critical condition and rushed to Queensland Children’s Hospital. Despite efforts to save them, both girls later died after being taken off life support.</p> <p>Queensland Police allege the children’s mother intentionally started the fire. In a statement on Tuesday, police confirmed she has been charged with three counts of murder (domestic violence offence), three counts of attempted murder (domestic violence offence), and one count of arson.</p> <p>Two other children survived the blaze, as did the woman’s 34-year-old partner. Investigators have ruled out the involvement of any other suspects, though police say the investigation remains ongoing.</p> <p>“This is an incredibly tragic incident that has deeply affected the community,” a police spokesperson said. “Our thoughts are with the surviving family members and all those impacted by this devastating loss.”</p> <p>The woman is expected to appear in court as the legal process continues.</p> <p><em>Images: 7 News / Facebook</em></p>

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Multiple charges dropped as fatal mushroom lunch trial begins

<p>Erin Patterson, the woman at the centre of Australia’s high-profile “mushroom lunch” case, has had three attempted murder charges dropped as her trial begins in Victoria’s Latrobe Valley Magistrates Court.</p> <p>The 50-year-old pleaded not guilty to charges related to the deaths of her former in-laws, Don and Gail Patterson, both aged 70, and Gail’s sister, Heather Wilkinson, 66. The three died in hospital days after allegedly eating a beef wellington laced with poisonous mushrooms at a family lunch hosted by Patterson in Leongatha on July 29, 2023.</p> <p>Patterson is also facing an attempted murder charge over the alleged poisoning of Heather Wilkinson’s husband, Ian Wilkinson, 68, who survived the lunch.</p> <p>On Tuesday, trial judge Justice Christopher Beale informed the jury that three separate attempted murder charges linked to Patterson’s estranged husband, Simon Patterson, had been withdrawn. He instructed jurors to disregard those charges entirely.</p> <p>“You may be aware from previous coverage that the accused was charged in relation to her ex-husband,” Justice Beale said. “Those charges have been dropped, and you must put them out of your mind.”</p> <p>Patterson, dressed in a pink and white striped long-sleeved shirt, sat quietly in the dock as the jury of 15 was empanelled. Jurors were briefed on courtroom procedures, including the selection of a foreperson, COVID-19 precautions, and the roles of parties involved in the trial.</p> <p>Patterson first entered pleas of not guilty to the murder and attempted murder charges in May 2024. The trial, expected to draw significant public attention, will continue on Wednesday with further evidence and testimony.</p> <p><em>Images: A Current Affair</em></p>

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Man charged after fatal carjacking rampage on Sunshine Coast

<p>A man has been charged following a shocking carjacking and crash incident that left a young woman dead and several others seriously injured in a violent rampage on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast.</p> <p>The chaos began around 12:10pm on Monday when a 41-year-old man allegedly crashed a red Porsche Macan into multiple vehicles on the southbound lanes of the Bruce Highway near the Aussie World theme park in Palmview.</p> <p>Tragically, a 22-year-old woman died at the scene, while the 22-year-old male driver of the Porsche was rushed to hospital in critical condition.</p> <p>According to Queensland Police, the accused then exited the Porsche and approached a white SsangYong Rexton that had stopped to assist. Armed with a gun, he allegedly shot the 62-year-old driver in the arm before stealing the vehicle. The injured man was taken to Sunshine Coast University Hospital with serious injuries.</p> <p>The stolen SsangYong was later found overturned near Forestry Road in Landsborough, roughly 10 minutes away from the initial crash site. Authorities say the alleged offender then commandeered a third vehicle, a grey Mazda 3, from a 16-year-old girl who was on a driving lesson with her parents.</p> <p>The man was ultimately apprehended on Steve Irwin Way in Landsborough. Police recovered a firearm in the Mazda and confirmed he had sustained head and body injuries during the rampage. He remains under police guard in hospital.</p> <p>On Tuesday, Queensland Police confirmed that the man had been charged with 15 offences, including dangerous driving causing death and armed robbery. He is scheduled to appear in Maroochydore Magistrates Court.</p> <p>Three crime scenes have been established – one at Palmview and two in Landsborough – as investigations continue. Police have urged any witnesses to come forward, with hundreds believed to have seen the dramatic and deadly series of events unfold.</p> <p>“He came around the back of us, and almost cleaned up the back of our car, with our daughter in the back of it,” witness Joshua Strachan <a href="https://7news.com.au/news/footage-of-man-running-with-gun-surfaces-after-deadly-carjacking-rampage-near-aussie-world-on-queenslands-sunshine-coast-c-18446421" target="_blank" rel="noopener">told 7NEWS</a>, describing how close his family came to being caught in the chaos.</p> <p>Authorities say further charges are likely as the investigation progresses.</p> <p><em>Images: 9 News / 7 News</em></p>

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Murder charge laid after death of 19-year-old ironwoman

<p>A 53-year-old man has been charged with the murder of 19-year-old ironwoman <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/beloved-aussie-athlete-found-dead-at-just-19" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Audrey Griffin</a>, nearly a month after her body was discovered in a creek on the NSW Central Coast.</p> <p>Griffin’s body was found partially submerged in Erina Creek near The Entrance Road in Erina around 3:45pm on March 23 – the same day she was reported missing following a night out with friends.</p> <p>At the time, her death was not considered suspicious. However, a renewed police investigation and subsequent inquiries shifted the course of the case, culminating in the man’s arrest in Sydney on Monday April 21.</p> <p>The breakthrough came just three days after police released an image of a man they were seeking to speak with in relation to the case.</p> <p>The man was taken into custody and transported to Surry Hills Police Station, where he was charged with murder. In addition, he faces 11 domestic violence charges that are unrelated to the murder.</p> <p>Police will allege the man was involved in a physical altercation with Griffin prior to her death.</p> <p>He was refused bail and is due to appear before Downing Centre Local Court.</p> <p>Audrey Griffin was a promising young athlete and beloved member of the surf lifesaving community. Her death has sent shockwaves through the local community and beyond.</p> <p>Police have not ruled out further charges as investigations continue.</p> <p><em>Images: Facebook</em></p>

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"Abhorrent behaviour": Newlywed charged after assaulting Jetstar check-in staff

<p>A man who launched a violent attack on an airport worker during a "meltdown" on his wedding day has pleaded guilty to assault.</p> <p>Alok Sharma, 43, an Indian national, was overwhelmed by visa troubles before his "woeful lapse in judgment" at Perth Airport on February 25, according to his defence. Sharma attacked a 24-year-old Jetstar employee at a service counter as he attempted to board a flight to Bali with his wife.</p> <p>The Perth Magistrates Court heard that Sharma used a luggage conveyor belt to jump over the counter before slapping the victim. As she attempted to escape, he pulled her to the ground and kicked her. A female colleague intervened, attempting to shield the victim while shouting at Sharma to leave. Two bystanders assisted in restraining him until federal police arrived and made an arrest.</p> <p>The prosecution described the victim as visibly distressed and in shock following the assault. The altercation began after Sharma became agitated over issues with his visa and passport. Initially, he was told he could not cut in line. After rejoining the queue, he returned an hour later and launched his "entirely unprovoked" attack.</p> <p>Sharma’s lawyer acknowledged that his actions were unacceptable but argued that he had been under immense pressure due to the travel complications. Describing the incident as a "blip" in Sharma’s otherwise clean record, the lawyer said Sharma fully accepted responsibility and deeply regretted his behaviour.</p> <p>Sharma, who holds two master’s degrees and has worked for major global financial institutions such as Citibank, Barclays and Oracle, has lived in Australia for over two years on a student visa. </p> <p>Following the attack, Sharma was charged with one count of common assault and was ordered to pay $7,500 in compensation to the victim. He was granted a spent conviction, which allows him to avoid a criminal record, a crucial factor for future employment and visa applications.</p> <p>Magistrate Steven Heath said that such a conviction is rarely granted and condemned Sharma’s actions. "Those that work in the airport environment are entitled to a safe workplace. This assault went beyond a single slap – it included a kick while the victim was on the ground. Such behaviour is completely unacceptable," Heath said.</p> <p>Australian Federal Police (AFP) Acting Superintendent Aviation Shona Davis reiterated that violence against airport workers and passengers would not be tolerated. "No one should go to work and be subjected to violence or aggression," Davis stated.</p> <p>Jetstar also condemned the attack. "This was an utterly shocking act of violence. Abhorrent behaviour like this can never be tolerated, and we thank the AFP for their response," a spokesperson said.</p> <p><em>Image: Australian Federal Police</em></p>

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Teen charged after allegedly trying to board Jetstar flight with a gun

<p>A 17-year-old has been arrested after he allegedly attempted to board a Jetstar flight at Avalon Airport armed with a gun. </p> <p>The incident occurred around 2.20pm on Thursday, and it is believed that the teenager from Ballarat hid in his car before cutting a hole through a fence around the airport’s perimeter.</p> <p>The teenager wore a  high-vis jacket and tool belt, and reportedly told crew members that he was there to carry out maintenance work. </p> <p>Crew members and passengers managed to detain the teenager near the front door of the plane, after passenger Barry Clark noticed the teenager was carrying a shotgun and detained the boy in a headlock until police arrived. </p> <p>“Before we knew it, a shotgun appeared, and I was worried about it being shot, so all I could do was push her out of the way, get the gun out of the way, break that gun and throw it down the stairs, and then put him in a hold, throw him to the ground until the police came,” he told <em>ABC Radio Melbourne</em>.</p> <p>Police also allegedly found two bags and a vehicle belonging to the boy, with the bomb squad called in to assist. </p> <p>The boy has since been charged with eight offences including unlawfully taking control of an aircraft, endangering the safety of an aircraft and taking part in a bomb hoax.</p> <p>He was remanded in custody to appear at a children’s court at a later date.</p> <p>Victoria Police Superintendent Michael Reid released a statement saying it was "very concerning" that the teen was able to breach security.</p> <p>“It would have been a very frightening experience for those passengers involved, but once again I do really commend the bravery of those civilian passengers that helped assist to overpower him.”</p> <p>Avalon Airport has reopened following the incident, with chief executive Ari Suss assuring that further security measures have been implemented. </p> <p>“We want to reassure the public that the safety of our passengers, staff, and community remains our highest priority,” he said.</p> <p>“We continue to work closely with authorities to ensure a safe and secure environment for all travellers.</p> <p>“This matter continues to be managed by Victoria Police, and we are fully supporting their ongoing investigation.”</p> <p><em>Image: 7News</em></p>

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Raygun's brother charged with financial crime

<p>The brother of Australian Olympian Rachael Gunn, also known as Raygun, has been changed with a financial crime. </p> <p>Brendan Gunn faced Sydney Downing Centre on Wednesday after being charged for allegedly dealing with money that was the proceeds of crime.</p> <p>The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) alleged he dealt with more than $100,000 in money or property that was reasonable to suspect were the proceeds of crime between March 2020 and May 2020, while director of Mormarkets: a role he has held since 2019.</p> <p>Brendan allegedly dealt with two bank cheques, which contained four investments totalling $181,000, by three investors who deposited the funds to convert to cryptocurrency.</p> <p>He went on to open several bank accounts to receive and transfer deposits on an ongoing basis, which were later closed due to concerns about scams.</p> <p>Brendan is facing a maximum penalty of three years' imprisonment, a $37,800 fine or both.</p> <p>ASIC chair Joe Longo said this case reflected his commitment to pursue those who are allegedly involved in facilitating cross-border scams targeting Australian investors.</p> <p>"ASIC continues to prioritise scam prevention and detection activity to protect consumers," he said in a statement.</p> <p>"We will continue to partner with international law enforcement organisations and investigate and take action where we see misconduct."</p> <p><em>Image credits: LinkedIn/Paul Kitagaki, Jr/ZUMA Press Wire/Shutterstock</em></p>

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NSW Health worker charged over anti-semitic remarks

<p>A NSW Health worker who went viral over his <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/nsw-health-workers-stood-down-over-anti-semitic-remarks" target="_blank" rel="noopener">anti-semitic remarks</a> during a video call at Bankstown-Lidcombe hospital in Sydney's west has been charged. </p> <p>Ahmed Rashid Nadir, 27, and female co-worker Sarah Abu Lebdeh, 26, were recorded in a video call with Israeli influencer Max Veifer, where they said they would refuse to treat Israeli patients and allegedly threatened to kill them. </p> <p>The video has since gone viral and both nurses were stood down from their positions. </p> <p>After being stood down from the hospital, Nadir issued an apology through his lawyer, and told reporters the incident was a misunderstanding and a mistake. </p> <p>Nadir was arrested on Tuesday evening, and charged with threatening to menace, harass, or offend, as well as possessing a prohibited drug.</p> <p>He has been granted conditional bail and is scheduled to appear at Downing Centre Local Court on Wednesday, March 19, 2025.</p> <p>Lebdeh, was charged last Tuesday, and faces charges of threatening violence to a group, using a carriage service to threaten to kill, and using a carriage service to menace, harass, or offend, according to NSW Police.</p> <p>She is also scheduled to appear at Downing Centre Local Court on March 19. </p> <p>At the time of her arrest, Nadir was taken to hospital for assessment after paramedics were called to his home. He has reportedly been receiving ongoing medical treatment since then. </p> <p>The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency previously confirmed the pair’s credentials were no longer valid and they “cannot practise in Australia”.</p> <p><em>Image: TikTok</em></p> <p> </p>

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Bruce Lehrmann faces fresh charges

<p>Bruce Lehrmann has found himself back in court over charges of stealing a car in Tasmania. </p> <p>The former Liberal staffer fronted Hobart Magistrates Court on Monday morning over allegations of stealing a Toyota Prado.</p> <p>The court heard the 29-year-old was alleged to have stolen a car from Mountain River, about 30km from Hobart CBD, on November 20th.</p> <p>Mr Lehrmann did not enter a plea and his matter was adjourned until June 19th. </p> <p>In a statement to <em><a href="https://www.news.com.au/national/courts-law/bruce-lehrmann-faces-motor-vehicle-stealing-charge-in-tasmania/news-story/d3500e0dea6d7cdb069b453022846e32" target="_blank" rel="noopener">news.com.au</a></em> the state’s Department of Police, Fire and Emergency Management said Mr Lehrmann was arrested in December over the charges. </p> <p>“A 29-year-old man has been charged with motor vehicle stealing in relation to a matter at Mountain River on 20 November 2024,” it said.</p> <p>“He was arrested, charged and bailed on December 2nd 2024.”</p> <p>As part of his strict bail conditions, Mr Lehrmann has been ordered to not contact two women named in the proceedings.</p> <p>The Hobart court appearance is the latest in a seemingly never-ending legal battle for the law student and former federal government adviser, after last year when he was found by a Federal Court judge to have raped his one-time colleague Brittany Higgins in March 2019.</p> <p><em>Image credits: MICK TSIKAS/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock Editorial </em></p>

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Man charged with murder one day after police offer $500,000 reward

<p>Coffs Harbour police have charged a 66-year-old man with the murder of Duncan Campbell, one day after announcing a $500,000 reward for information leading to a conviction.</p> <p>Campbell’s body was discovered just over a year ago on February 12, 2024, in bushland near his campsite on John Champion Way. Initially, authorities did not consider his death suspicious. However, a medical review later revealed that the 58-year-old had been brutally assaulted, prompting a homicide investigation.</p> <p>Detective Superintendent Daniel Doherty explained that humid and wet weather conditions had significantly decomposed the body, leading to the initial incorrect assessment of the cause of death. This misjudgment resulted in delays to the murder inquiry.</p> <p>On Tuesday, police issued a public reward of $500,000 for information on the case. Less than 24 hours later, strike force detectives arrested the suspect in Coffs Harbour. The man has been charged with murder and is accused of bludgeoning Campbell to death with a steel pole. He was refused bail and is set to appear in court.</p> <p>Campbell, a father of four and grandfather, had been living in a campsite with other rough sleepers near City Hill before his disappearance. Detective Superintendent Doherty noted that Campbell was well-regarded by those who knew him.</p> <p>"He was a loving father and grandfather," Doherty said. "[He] fell on hard times in recent years that led to him sleeping rough. He was a decent man; there was no criminality from Duncan."</p> <p>Campbell was reported missing by his family after they lost contact with him. Police discovered his body a week later in nearby bushland.</p> <p>Campbell’s murder comes amid a troubling rise in homicide cases in the Coffs Harbour-Grafton region. According to the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR), the area recorded five murders in the year ending September 2024 – the highest annual total in the past decade.</p> <p><em>Image: NSW Police</em></p>

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Friends charged hundreds to attend birthday party

<p dir="ltr">A woman has been left horrified after receiving an invitation to her friend’s birthday celebration that she would have to fork out hundreds of dollars to attend. </p> <p dir="ltr">In a post shared to Reddit, the stunned guest showed a picture of the invite - which was texted to the recipient's phone.</p> <p dir="ltr">It stated that the celebrations would take place on a Monday between 5:30pm and 7:30pm, writing that friends will be charged $499, while guests of friends will be $250.</p> <p dir="ltr">The invitee claimed that the party for the friend, who is a member of their local council, is being held at a pub. </p> <p dir="ltr">“I posted this after receiving the invitation, it's completely wrong but whatever. It's happening, now it's just shaking our heads and making a joke of the whole thing because of how ridiculous it is,” they wrote.</p> <p dir="ltr">Hundreds of people took to the comments of the Reddit post to express their outrage over the invitation, with many hypothesising that the party is actually a fundraiser. </p> <p dir="ltr">“Yep. 100 percent political fundraiser. There is a separate real birthday party, even if it is just the spouse and kids,” one person declared.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Since the friend is a politician my guess is they're treating it like a fundraiser, but still. Jesus,” someone else added.</p> <p dir="ltr">Many shared their opinions on the extortionate party, with one person writing, “On a Monday afternoon? For $250 an hour? There are no people I’d ever pay that for.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Others added that the occasion sounds “more like a happy hour” than a party, with another person writing that they “wouldn’t even send a card”. </p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Shutterstock / Reddit</em></p>

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Andrew O'Keefe faces more drug charges

<p>Troubled former TV host Andrew O'Keefe has once again faced court over allegations of driving under the influence of drugs. </p> <p>Andrew O’Keefe, 53, was stopped at 11:30am on July 28th for random testing while driving his Mercedes in Rose Bay, in Sydney’s eastern suburbs.</p> <p>Police say he recorded a positive result for the roadside drug test, while he returned a negative result for the roadside breath test.</p> <p>The former <em>Deal or No Deal</em> host was taken to Waverley Police Station where he underwent a second oral fluid test that returned another positive reading.</p> <p>He was charged with driving a vehicle with an illicit drug present in his system.</p> <p>The former host of The Chase was represented by his lawyer Jahan Kalantar in Waverley Local Court on Monday, where Magistrate Stephen Barlow adjourned the matter until early next month.</p> <p>O’Keefe will remain out on bail.</p> <p>The new charge comes after O’Keefe received a 30-month community corrections order and $2,500 in fines after pleading guilty to drug-related offences in October last year.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Channel Seven</em></p> <p style="box-sizing: inherit; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: inherit; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size-adjust: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-size: 18px; margin: 0px 0px 24px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p>

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Why one pizza shop is charging almost $200 for a divisive topping

<p dir="ltr">A trendy pizzeria is charging customers almost $200 AUD for one divisive pizza topping as they reignite the debate of putting pineapple on pizza. </p> <p dir="ltr">Lupa Pizza in Norwich in the UK have reluctantly added Hawaiian pizza to their menu, but the ham and pineapple combo comes with a catch.</p> <p dir="ltr">Diners will be charged £100 ($198 AUD) for it, with the restaurant taking to social media to share the news of the hefty price. </p> <p dir="ltr">"🍍🍕 Pineapple on pizza — love it or hate it?" they wrote. "We're not so keen, but if you are, it's now on our Deliveroo menu for £100 ($198). 🤷‍♂️”</p> <p dir="ltr">"Order the champagne too! Go on, you monster!" they added.</p> <p dir="ltr">The restaurant's owner and chef have defended the cost for a simple reason: their shared dislike of pineapple on pizza.</p> <p dir="ltr">"I absolutely loathe pineapple on a pizza," Francis Woolf, the co-owner of Lupa Pizza, told the <em>Norwich Evening News</em>.</p> <p dir="ltr">Head chef Quin Jianoran agreed, adding, "I love a piña colada, but pineapple on pizza? Never. I'd rather put a bloody strawberry on one than that tropical menace.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Their views, however, are not shared with the majority of the British public. In the most recent YouGov survey on the subject, 53 percent of Britons admitted they enjoyed the taste of pineapple on pizza, while 41 percent of people do not.</p> <p dir="ltr">Lupa agreed to feature the Hawaiian special on its main menu if the people of Norwich voted in favour of the combination in an online poll, which closes on January 24th.</p> <p dir="ltr">“If pineapple wins the vote, I’ll make it,” said Mr Jianoran. “But I won’t be happy about it. And I might charge £200 next time.”</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Instagram </em></p>

Food & Wine

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The Block billionaire faces unlawful lottery charges

<p>Adrian Portelli has responded after being charged by South Australian authorities for unlawful lottery. </p> <p>The billionaire his business Xclusive Tech Pty Ltd, which trades as LMCT+, have had charges brought against them by South Australia’s Consumer and Business Services.</p> <p>The charges come just days after the 35-year-old was praised for <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/finance/money-banking/the-block-billionaire-s-generous-christmas-stunt" target="_blank" rel="noopener">giving away $150,000 </a>in grocery vouchers at two Coles in Western Sydney. </p> <p>Portelli has been charged with nine counts of conducting or assisting in the conduct of an unlawful lottery, while his business has been charged with 10 counts of the same offence.</p> <p>He has since responded to the charges, writing  “It’s okay SA we still love you," in a post shared to his business Instagram account. </p> <p>“Your gambling commissioner won’t allow you to win major life-changing prizes so I’ve decided to run exclusive, DAILY $1000 cash giveaways to you guys instead,” he added. </p> <p>“We still love you and I’ll definitely be visiting to do more grocery voucher handouts.”</p> <p>His business, LMCT+, is a shopping tool and rewards club which has three membership tiers that all offer different prizes for their regular giveaways. </p> <p>The first prize in these giveaways can range from a new car to major cash prizes of $500,000 and $1,000,000, with each membership tier having different benefits including the amount of entries into the giveaways. </p> <p>Consumer and Business Service alleged unlawful lottery activity occurred between January 29, 2023, and May 16, 2024.</p> <p>The matter is set to be mentioned in Adelaide Magistrate’s Court on January 15.</p> <p><em>Image: Instagram</em></p>

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