Seven Year Prison Sentence For Indiana Man Heading To LA Pride With Explosives

James Wesley Howell

Just hours after the deadly Pulse Nightclub shooting in Orlando, Florida, two years ago, an Indiana man was arrested and police confiscated weapons, ammunition and bomb-making materials found in his car.

In court this week, James Wesley Howell pleaded no contest to charges of unlawful assault weapon activity, possession of a destructive device on a public road or highway and possession of a destructive device. The 22-year-old was sentenced to 7 years in state prison on Thursday.

Howell was found sitting in his car in Santa Monica in the early morning hours of June 12, 2016, after police responded to a call regarding a man knocking on residents’ windows and doors.

From the LA Times:

Inside his car, police found three rifles — including an Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 .223 caliber rifle that police described as an assault weapon — and two 30-round magazines.

In addition to the guns, Howell was also driving with a full five-gallon container of gasoline and a 25-pound container of "Shoc-shot," a commercially sold two-component explosive that detonates when hit by a high-velocity rifle round, Santa Monica police said at the time.

Howell also had a black hood, a Taser, handcuffs, a Buck knife, a security badge and additional ammunition for the guns, court records show.

At the time of his arrest, Howell told police he was planning on attending LA Pride, but the Indianapolis Star later reported he had been charged with sexually molesting a 12-year-old girl in Indiana.

As a result of the Pulse shooting and the dangerous materials found in his possession, security measures were heightened at the Pride festival.

(h/t LA Times)

North Korea Calls Trump "Old Lunatic," "Depraved," And "Stupid;" Trump Retaliates By Placing NK On List Of State Sponsors Of Terrorism

On Sunday, North Korea's state-run Minju Joson newspaper issued a scathing commentary on Donald Trump saying, in part, “A load of rubbish spouted by the old lunatic Trump during his recent visit to South Korea was a total of all nonsense and paradox so far.”

The editorial went on to state that the U.S. would regret “letting such a depraved and stupid guy occupy the Oval Office.”

In retaliation, Donald Trump announced today he has placed North Korea back on the list of state sponsors of terrorism.

From CNN:

Trump announced the move Monday during a public meeting with his Cabinet at the White House and said the Treasury Department will announce new sanctions against North Korea on Tuesday.

"Today the United States is designating the North Korea as a state sponsor of terrorism. Should have happened a long time ago. Should have happened years ago," Trump said.

North Korea was removed from the list by President George W. Bush in 2008.

Trump said that North Korea has "repeatedly" sponsored acts of terrorism, including "assassinations on foreign soil."

"This designation will impose further sanctions and penalties on North Korea ... and supports our maximum pressure campaign to isolate the murderous regime," Trump said.

JUST IN: President Donald Trump announces he's designating North Korea as a state sponsor of terrorism https://t.co/5vOjssHjNg https://t.co/FDAhPWHuHh

— CNN (@CNN) November 20, 2017

North Korea: The US will regret "letting such a depraved and stupid guy occupy the Oval Office" https://t.co/iT9O3GmfID pic.twitter.com/ee19oHD58a

— The Hill (@thehill) November 20, 2017

Secretary of State Rex Tillerson: "We still hope for diplomacy" with North Korea https://t.co/i2AZggvs92 pic.twitter.com/CH64ieYGL0

— CNN (@CNN) November 20, 2017

Trump Criticizes London Mayor After Terror Attack, Mayor Slaps Back

Last night in London, three knife-wielding assailants unleashed a terror attack, the third major terrorist attack in the UK in three months.

Driving a white van, the three men killed seven and injured dozens driving across the London Bridge. They then left the van and entered the capital's Borough Market with large hunting knives, slashing at patrons.

Within minutes, the police chased down the men and killed them.

In a statement, London Mayor Sadiq Khan said: "Londoners will see an increased police presence today and over the course of the next few days. There's no reason to be alarmed. One of the things the police and all of us need to do is ensure that we're as safe as we possibly can be."

President Trump's response to the terror attacks in London last night was to take aim at the city's mayor and that statement.

At least 7 dead and 48 wounded in terror attack and Mayor of London says there is "no reason to be alarmed!"

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 4, 2017

As he has done often in the past, Trump took the Mayor's statement out of context. The mayor wasn't saying there was no need to be alarmed by the attacks. He was clearly saying to Londoners not to be alarmed by the increased police presence people will be seeing over the next few days.

Because that's what the mayor needs right now, the president of another country criticizing him in the middle of a terror attack.

Can you imagine Prime Minister Theresa May chiding the mayors of Orlando or Boston after their horrible attacks?

A spokesman for the mayor responded to the tweet saying, “The Mayor is busy working with the police, emergency services and the government to coordinate the response to this horrific and cowardly terrorist attack and provide leadership and reassurance to Londoners and visitors to our city.”

He added that Mayor Khan “has more important things to do than respond to Donald Trump’s ill-informed tweet that deliberately takes out of context his remarks urging Londoners not to be alarmed when they saw more police — including armed officers — on the streets.”

Bolding is mine.

United States Issues International Travel Alert

Current information suggests that ISIL (aka Da’esh), al-Qa’ida, Boko Haram, and other terrorist groups continue to plan terrorist attacks in multiple regions. These attacks may employ a wide variety of tactics, using conventional and non-conventional weapons and targeting both official and private interests. This Travel Alert expires on February 24, 2016.

Authorities believe the likelihood of terror attacks will continue as members of ISIL/Da’esh return from Syria and Iraq. Additionally, there is a continuing threat from unaffiliated persons planning attacks inspired by major terrorist organizations but conducted on an individual basis. Extremists have targeted large sporting events, theatres, open markets, and aviation services. In the past year, there have been multiple attacks in France, Nigeria, Denmark, Turkey, and Mali. ISIL/Da’esh has claimed responsibility for the bombing of a Russian airliner in Egypt.

U.S. citizens should exercise vigilance when in public places or using transportation. Be aware of immediate surroundings and avoid large crowds or crowed places. Exercise particular caution during the holiday season and at holiday festivals or events. U.S. citizens should monitor media and local information sources and factor updated information into personal travel plans and activities. Persons with specific safety concerns should contact local law enforcement authorities who are responsible for the safety and security of all visitors to their host country.

(via State Department press release)

Suspected Ringleader Of Paris Attacks Killed In Police Raid

(image via AP)

The Belgian jihadi suspected of masterminding deadly attacks in Paris died along with his cousin in a police raid on a suburban apartment building, officials said Thursday.

Paris Prosecutor Francois Molins' office said 27-year-old Abdelhamid Abaaoud was identified based on skin samples, but authorities did not know how he died. His body was found in the apartment building targeted in the chaotic and bloody raid in the Paris suburb of Saint-Denis on Wednesday.

Three police officials say a woman who died in the raid was Abaaoud's cousin. One said Hasna Aitboulahcen is believed to have detonated a suicide vest after a brief conversation with police officers.

More at Huffington Post.

ISIS Video Appears To Threaten New York City

CNN is reporting that ISIS is circulating a video that suggest they are targeting New York.

CNN's Jim Sciutto reports that the video cannot be verified, but authorities are taking it seriously.

Take A Moment And Open Your Mind To The Possibility

BLINDFOLD MUSLIM HUG

"Hug me if you trust me, I'm told I'm a terrorist", –Muslim man opens his arms to Parisians#Paris #PlacedelaRepublique #ParisAttacks #Islamophobia #MuslimsAreNotTerrorists

Posted by In the NOW on Monday, November 16, 2015

John Oliver On Terrorist Attacks In Paris: "F**k These A**holes Sideway"

John Oliver began last night's episode of HBO's "Last Week Tonight" by addressing the terrorist attacks in Paris this past Friday in a way you can only do on cable TV.

Warning: NSFW

Eiffel Tower Once Again Lit In Colors Of The French Flag

After nights of darkness following the horrific attacks in Paris, the Eiffel Tower is illuminated again tonight in the colors of the French flag.

Vive la France!

SNL Cold Open - Bilingual Tribute To Paris

Last night's cold open for SNL by cast member Cecily Strong - a simple, poignant, bilingual salute to Paris.

First in English, then in French, Strong told the television audience, “Paris is the city of lights. And here in New York City, we know that light will never go out. Our love and support is with everyone there tonight. We stand with you.”

Paris Terrorist Attack Updates

French authorities unsure whether other attackers are still on the loose, official tells CNN. https://t.co/OUnheWfqK3

— CNN Breaking News (@cnnbrk) November 14, 2015

Paris attacks casualties: 129 killed, 352 injured -- at least 99 seriously -- prosecutor says. https://t.co/SAWsdqqNED

— CNN Breaking News (@cnnbrk) November 14, 2015

FBI offices told to boost surveillance of terror suspects in the wake of #ParisAttacks. https://t.co/1bttLdeA1U pic.twitter.com/QsTEVJy9sy

— ABC News (@ABC) November 14, 2015

Breaking: #ISIS claims responsibility for #Paris attacks in online statement. What we know: https://t.co/iHozaZ87TT pic.twitter.com/h24KJfNDA2

— CNN (@CNN) November 14, 2015

Islamic State claims responsibility for Paris attacks that left 127 dead https://t.co/ACcs7BfVQb pic.twitter.com/DvGKMh27P0

— Talking Points Memo (@TPM) November 14, 2015

Islamic State group claims Paris attacks, says France at "top of the list of targets": https://t.co/WGAgZB3LPC

— The Associated Press (@AP) November 14, 2015

Watch the full statement from @POTUS on the attacks in Paris. https://t.co/yQThOvrdxZ

— The White House (@WhiteHouse) November 13, 2015

Tributes to Paris and France around the world from Dallas, to San Francisco, to Rio de Janeiro and Sydney. pic.twitter.com/n0rTy0SO9x

— Good Morning America (@GMA) November 14, 2015

LATEST: Number of dead could exceed 120 in 6 attacks, Paris prosecutor says. https://t.co/77XmTk7BA5 pic.twitter.com/VOlCpRWE6Z

— ABC News (@ABC) November 14, 2015

NYC lit up for Paris. #Pray4Paris pic.twitter.com/5u8hlqXEQw

— Pray For Paris (@Jolexomelia) November 14, 2015

Paris: Pianist Davide Martello Pulls Piano To Concert Hall, Plays John Lennon's "Imagine"

(image via Twitter)

Today in Paris, musician Davide Martello pulled his piano via bike to right in front of The Bataclan, the concert hall where over 100 were murdered last night in terrorist attacks.

After situating himself, he quietly began playing John Lennon’s “Imagine." When he finished, overwhelmed by emotion, he left without speaking or identifying himself.

(source)

Westboro Baptist Church Praises "The Wondrous Work God Has Done In Paris"

French President Hollande Promises "Merciless" Response To Terrorist Attacks

From NBC News:

French President Francois Hollande vowed a “merciless” response to the deadliest attacks on the country’s soil since World War II as ISIS claimed responsibility Saturday for a coordinated assault on Paris.

A state of emergency was declared and France deployed 1,500 troops after a near-simultaneous series of explosions and shootings brought the city to a horrified standstill overnight. The death toll rose to 127 and 200 other people were wounded, officials said.

Speaking early Saturday, Hollande pointed the finger at ISIS for orchestrating the “cowardly” attacks which he described as an “act of war committed by a terrorist army” and organized from abroad. He said France remained “unbreakable,” calling for “unity and courage.”

Hollande added: “We will work alongside our allies to fight this terrorist menace … France is strong and even if she is wounded she will get up always and nothing will hold her down, even if we are feeling the grief now … We will defend ourselves.”

President Obama Condemns Terrorist Attacks In Paris

President Obama is calling the attacks on Paris "outrageous attempt to terrorize innocent civilians" and is vowing to do whatever it takes to help bring the perpetrators to justice.

French President Francois Hollande has declared a national state of emergency and has ordered all of France’s borders closed for an indefinite period.

Here is the latest report by the AP on the attacks:

Millions March Against Terrorism In France

BREAKING NEWS: Up to 2.5 million march across France against terrorism: organizers. Reuters pic.twitter.com/IsYnSwzEmp

— Breaking News Feed (@PzFeed) January 11, 2015

#JeSuisCharlie Covers The New Yorker

The cover of the Jan. 19, 2015, issue of The New Yorker.

(h/t kenneth in the 212)

Erick Erickson Calls Atlanta LGBT Activists "Terrorists"

Erick Erickson of RedState, writing on his personal blog, compared LGBT activists in Atlanta who brought attention to a fire chief who distributed his anti-gay book to employees to the terrorists who killed 12 in Paris today.

From Media Matters:

On January 6, Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed dismantled conservatives' claims that Fire Chief Kelvin Cochran was fired over a book that he wrote which contains anti-gay remarks, explaining that Cochran's lack of judgment in distributing the book to his employees, and not following instructions regarding his month-long suspension over publishing the book without notice to the city, is what led to his termination.

On January 7, hours after a horrific terrorist attack against staffers of the satirical French magazine Charlie Hebdo in Paris that left 12 people dead, Erickson wrote a blog post that likened the LGBT community to terrorists for objecting to the former Atlanta fire chief's book, and stated that "the terrorists won."

Erick Erickson wrote this on his site:

A publisher published something that offended. It mocked, it offended, and it showed the fallacy of a religion. It angered.

So the terrorists decided they needed to publicly destroy and ruin the publisher in a way that would not only make that destruction a public spectacle, but do it so spectacularly that others would think twice before publishing or saying anything similar.

The terrorist wants to sow fear. The destruction of an individual is not just meant to be a tool of vengeance, but a tool of instruction. It shows others what will happen to them if they dare do the same. It is generates self-regulating peer pressure. Others, fearing the fall out, will being to self-police and self-regulate. They will silence others on behalf of the terrorists. Out of fear, they will drive the ideas from the public square and society will make them off limits.

[snip]

So when a publisher published something that mocked and offended a group prone to offense at such things, something had to happen.

The terrorists did what had to be done to publicly destroy and ruin the offender.

So they demanded the Mayor of Atlanta fire the Chief of the Fire Department for daring to write that his first duty was to “glory God” and that any sex outside of heterosexual marriage was a sin.

And the terrorists won in Atlanta.

UPDATE: Erickson read his "op-ed" on his radio show today. You can him read the piece at the 3:00 mark below. He prefaces the reading saying he knows he'll offend people.  At least he got that part right.

NBC On Paris Terrorist Attack: One Dead, Two Others In Custody

BREAKING: One suspect in Paris terror attack killed, two in custody, U.S. officials say http://t.co/tOJVZu0Wwp
— NBC News (@NBCNews) January 7, 2015

Paris: Terrorist Attack On French Magazine Charlie Hebdo - 12 Dead, 5 Injured

In what has been described as a terrorist act, 12 people are confirmed dead plus five more injured after three gunmen attacked the offices of satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo in Paris.

Four of the magazine's well-known cartoonists, including its editor-in-chief, were among those killed, as well as two police officers.

A major police operation is under way to find three gunmen who fled by car.

President Francois Hollande said there was no doubt it had been a terrorist attack "of exceptional barbarity".

The masked attackers opened fire with assault rifles in the office and exchanged shots with police in the street outside before escaping by car.

They later abandoned the car in Rue de Meaux, northern Paris. Witnesses said they heard the gunmen shouting "we have avenged the Prophet Muhammad".

President Obama issued this statement:

I strongly condemn the horrific shooting at the offices of Charlie Hebdo magazine in Paris that has reportedly killed 12 people. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims of this terrorist attack and the people of France at this difficult time.

France is America's oldest ally, and has stood shoulder to shoulder with the United States in the fight against terrorists who threaten our shared security and the world.

Time and again, the French people have stood up for the universal values that generations of our people have defended. France, and the great city of Paris where this outrageous attack took place, offer the world a timeless example that will endure well beyond the hateful vision of these killers.

We are in touch with French officials and I have directed my Administration to provide any assistance needed to help bring these terrorists to justice.