Rihanna is the latest famous face to have been signed up to star in fashion label Dior's iconic Secret Garden campaign. According to WWD.com, the French-based brand confirmed that the 27-year-old chart-topper is set to feature in the fourth installment of the video and print series, joining models such as Daria Strokus, Melissa Stasiuk and Xiao Wen Ju, all of whom have previously featured in the Secret Garden series. While further details about the campaign have not yet been released, the fashion label confirmed that film and print versions, shot by photographer Steven Klein, 'are scheduled to run this spring'. Scroll down for video . Star power: Rihanna, pictured at the Christian Dior Cruise 2015 show in New York last year, has been signed up by the luxury French fashion brand to feature in the newest installment of its Secret Garden campaign . Cream Cocktail dress from Chrsitian Dior A/W 2014 . Shop the designer at Farfetch! Visit site . Rihanna has left us all open mouthed by just how good she can look when she dons a chic dress and heels and leaves the cleavage/legs/bum bearing dresses at home. Attending the Dior Cruise Fashion Show in Brooklyn, Rihanna was wearing head to toe Christina Dior accessorized with pearl earrings, disc necklaces and statement bracelets, showing how accessorizing can give a simple dress the wow factor. Rihanna's dress is a great piece for Summer weddings or with gladiator sandals for daytime chic. See our selection of our favorite pink pastel dresses below, including pieces from River Island, MinkPink and Jo No Fui. Jo No Fui Short Dress at Yoox . Visit site . MinkPink Drop Waist Tee Dress at Nordstrom . Visit site . River Island Pink Short Sleeve Shift Dress . Visit site . Carven Side Tie Dress at Otte . Visit site . Laidback style: Earlier this week, the 27-year-old chart-topper was seen on a late-night shoot at the Palace of Versailles (pictured), where all of Dior's previous Secret Garden campaigns have been filmed . And according to the Huffington Post, Rihanna's starring role for the 70-year-old fashion house marks the first time that a black model has starred as the face of one of its campaigns. The news comes just days after the popstar was spotted filming in the ornate surroundings of the Palace of Versailles in Paris, France, where all of Dior's previous Secret Garden campaigns have been shot. Rihanna was seen strolling through the Palace's luxurious rooms during the late night shoot, while wearing a glamorous sequin gown - and a pair of fluffy slippers. Her thick hair was styled in luxurious waves, swept back off her face to allow her features to shine, while a bold dark lipstick spiced up the look. Rihanna posed among a hallway of gold statues as cameras flashed away. Rest and relaxation: During the shoot, Rihanna was pictured enjoying some downtime in her trailer. While reclining on a sofa, the popstar was treated to a manicure by an on-set assistant (pictured) Precious cargo: Rihanna's ensembles for the shoot were seen being

Summary: A spokesperson for the brand confirmed that the 27-year-old popstar's new print and video campaign is set to debut 'this spring' Rihanna is believed to be the first black model to feature as the face of one of the brand's campaigns .


Before Nikki Reed starred in the $3.3 billion dollar Twilight franchise, the now-26-year-old actress was more of a regular at McDonalds than Nobu - and she wasn't exactly splurging on super-size meals. 'I grew up eating off the dollar menu at every fast food restaurant,' she told Yahoo Style. 'When you have a single mother that makes $15,000 a year for her two kids in a major city like Los Angeles, money runs out quickly.' If her mother could have afforded organic vegetables she would have bought them, Nikki says, adding that they simply didn't have the money to be healthy while she was growing up. Scroll down for video . Kids meals: Nikki Reed, 26, says her family couldn't afford to buy healthy food while she was growing up in LA, so she often ate off the dollar menu at fast food restuarants . That's why Nikki and her fiancé Ian Somerhalder, 36, who have been engaged since January, became involved with US-based Thrive Market, a 'socially conscious online store' that sells natural and organic products at wholesale prices. For every paid membership, the site offers a free one to a low-income family - and so far has signed up 650,000 members since November 2014. Nikki's upbringing also encouraged her to develop a love of animals; the big screen star often adopts pets from shelters, or adopts and fosters them with Ian and her mother. Whirlwind romance: Nikki and Vampire Diaries star Ian Somerhalder got engaged in January after dating for six months . Full house: Nikki has joked that she has a farm in her house, including two horses, six dogs, and a cat . 'My mom deserves every bit of credit,' Nikki says. 'She basically takes in any and everything that has a heartbeat.' Nikki followed suit, fostering and adopting animals during the past decade, including dogs, cats, horses, and even rats. More recently, Nikki built a guest house on her LA property where her mom could live and help her take care of her many pets. The actress even testified at California’s State Capitol in early March in support of Assembly Bill 147, or the Research Animal Adoption Bill, which would help animals that have been tested on find homes. Girl's best friend: The actress, pictured here with one of her many dogs, spends a lot of time working with animal nonprofits like the ASPCA . Puppy face: Nikki says she recently spent three days trying to figure out how to rescue a group of dogs (not pictured) from an animal center in Georgia before they were killed . While fans may be surprised that Nikki dedicates so much of her time to her furry friends, it's actually a lot closer to her initial career dreams than acting - her next film, The Sunday Horse, comes out later this year - producing - she has a new production company with Ian - and directing - her documentary Think Normal appeared on ESPN last year. 'I wanted to be a vet and take care of animals,' says the star,

Summary: Nikki's mother raised her and her younger brother on $15,000 a year . The actress, 26, and her fiancé Ian Somerhalder have have partnered with an organic food service that donates memberships to needy families . She built a guest house for her mom at her Los Angeles home so she could help take care of Nikki's many adopted and foster animals .


British police should be dispatched to Turkey to catch ISIS sympathisers travelling to Syria, MPs said today. Home Affairs committee chairman Keith Vaz said police 'spotters' were needed in Istanbul amid growing numbers of fanatics using the city as a gateway to the frontline in neighbouring Syria. It comes after three London schoolgirls were spotted in the city on the Turkish leg of their trip before they were feared to have crossed the border into Syria. Scroll down for video . Home Secretary Theresa May told MPs she was in talks with Turkish airlines to ramp up security to catch women and girls travelling to Syria . Shamima Begum, 15, was pictured with Amira Abase, also 15, and Kadiza Sultana, 16, at a bus station in Istanbul. Home Secretary Theresa May told MPs she was in talks with Turkish airlines to ramp up security amid evidence that there are an 'increasing number of women and girls' travelling to join ISIS. She said should would look 'with very great care' at Mr Vaz's call for British police to be stationed in Istanbul. It came after Mrs May was called to the House of Commons to give an urgent statement on the terror threat in the wake of last week's revelation that the ISIS executioner known as 'Jihadi John' was the London-raised university graduate Mohammed Emwazi. The Home Secretary said she would look 'with very great care' at Mr Vaz's call for British police to be stationed in Istanbul. A man thought to be Jihadi John (front black headscarf holding rifle) proclaims allegiance to a terror group in footage filmed in 2013 . Mr Vaz said: 'I'm sure that the Home Secretary has heard the anguished pleas of the parents of the three London schoolgirls who have left this country. 'Will she look at a recommendation that was made by the Home Affairs Select Committee which is that police spotters need to be placed in Istanbul because this is the destination of concern – so that there can be immediate action taken if young girls disappear in this way.' Mrs May said: 'We have seen over time an increasing number of women and girls going to Syria, alongside the men and boys that we have seen going previously. ISIS executioner 'Jihadi John' - Mohammed Emwazi - was pictured in 2009 when he worked for an IT company in Kuwait . 'It's an ongoing issue – that's why it is the case that Home Office officials have been speaking to Turkish airlines about these issues. 'I will be meeting and talking to the Transport Secretary whether there are further arrangements that can be put in place to ensure we don't see families facing the trauma and stress that these families are.' At least 60 women and girls, including 18 under the age of 20, have travelled to join ISIS, a senior counter-terror officer has revealed. Deputy Assistant Commissioner Helen Ball, the Metropolitan Police's National Coordinator Counter Terrorism coordinator, urged the travel industry and families to be 'vigilant' in the battle to stop young people from

Summary: Home Affairs committee chair Keith Vaz said 'spotters' needed in Istanbul . Comes after three London schoolgirls spotted in the city after fleeing home . The friends secretly travelled to Turkey and are feared to be in Syria . Theresa May today revealed increasing number of girls joining ISIS . Said she would look 'with very great care' at proposal for police in Turkey .


A Cardiff University rugby team was banned from a P&O ferry for 'appalling' behaviour during which a trainee medic allegedly urinated on a family dining table. A rugby team from the university School of Medicine was on a rugby tour to Amsterdam when the incident was alleged to have taken place on a ferry from Dover. P&O confirmed the team were barred from the return journey after their behaviour on the outbound trip. P&O Ferries have confirmed the rugby team from Cardiff University were not allowed to return on one of their ships after their 'appalling behaviour' (File Photo) One anonymous student told university newspaper Gair Rhydd: 'I was told that one rugby player got so drunk they urinated in someone's food.' Company spokesman Brian Rees said: 'It relates to a group who travelled with us from Dover to Calais in mid February. 'Unfortunately behaviour was such that we had to explain that we would not offer them the return journey so they made other arrangements to get back. 'The behaviour was so appalling we didn't have a moment's hesitation in banning them from coming back with us.' A Cardiff University spokesperson said the university had been made aware of an incident involving Cardiff Medics Rugby Team. However, no formal complaints have been made to the university. Cardiff University have confirmed they are investigating the incident after allegations of bad behaviour . The spokesperson added: 'The alleged behaviour is certainly not the behaviour we expect of our students. As far as we have been able to establish we have not received a formal complaint. 'However, on receiving this information, we are investigating the exact circumstances and will need to consider what action will need to be taken.' Elliot Howells, Cardiff Students' Union President, said: 'We are aware of an incident involving the Medics Rugby Team and are investigating this concurrently with Cardiff University. 'Should any individuals be found to be responsible, appropriate action will be taken. This type of behaviour is not condoned by the Students' Union and we convey this message strongly to sports teams during their yearly induction sessions.' Cardiff Medics has both a first and second XV. It is not clear which team was involved in the incident.

Summary: Group made up one of university's Medics Rugby teams . Incident occurred on outbound journey from Dover to Calais . P&O confirm that rugby team were prevented from travelling on return trip . Students' Union say behaviour is 'not condoned' and message will be 'conveyed to teams' during inductions .


At first glance, it looks like any other F-16 fighter jet - except for one difference. Boeing's new QF-16 is a actually a retired US Air force jet converted into a drone. The pilotless plane can be controlled from the ground, and will used for target practice by 'top gun' pilots. Scroll down for video . Where's the pilot? Boeing has revealed video footage of an F-16 jet converted into a drone. 126 of the converted planes will be used by the US Air Force as flying targets to train top gun pilots. Length: 49 ft, 5 in. Span: 32 ft, 8 in. Takeoff weight: 37,500 lbs . Max speed: 1,500 mph . Max altitude: 50,000 ft plus . Range: 2,425 mi . Engine: One 27,000-lb-thrust Pratt & Whitney F100 . The first production Boeing QF-16 optionally manned target drone has been delivered to the US Air Force (USAF), Air bosses have revealed. Aircraft QF-007 arrived at Tyndall Air Force Base (AFB) in Florida on 11 March, ahead of being pressed into service by the 82nd Aerial Targets Squadron (ATS). Boeing has delivered six pre-production QF-16s, and in all, the USAF expects to receive 126 QF-16s. The unmanned McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II currently used is no longer truly representative of the air-to-air threats USAF pilots are likely to encounter on future operations. The QF-16 will be able to represent threats in the class of the MiG-29 'Fulcrum' and Sukhoi Su-27 'Flanker', bosses say. In tests, two U.S. Air Force test pilots in a ground control station at Tydall remotely flew the QF-16, which is a retired F-16 jet modified to be an aerial target. While in the air, the QF-16 mission included a series of simulated maneuvers, reaching supersonic speeds, returning to base and landing, all without a pilot in the cockpit. 'It was a little different to see it without anyone in it, but it was a great flight all the way around,' said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Ryan Inman, Commander, 82nd Aerial Targets Squadron. 'It's a replication of current, real world situations and aircraft platforms they can shoot as a target. Now we have a 9G capable, highly sustainable aerial target.' For more than 40 years, the F-16 Fighting Falcon has proven itself as the world's most capable 4 generation multi-role fighter, serving as the workhorse of the fighter fleet for 28 customers around the world. The drones have been adapted from F-16 jets that have been retired by the Air Force. The QF-16 is a retired F-16 (pictured) turned in a remote controlled drone. The US Air Force has ordered 126 craft to be used as 'target drones'. For more than 40 years, the F-16 Fighting Falcon has proven itself as the world's most capable 4 generation multi-role fighter, serving as the workhorse of the fighter fleet for 28 customers around the world. The F-16's most innovative design feature is its 'fly-by-wire' control system, the first on any aircraft. The F-16 is designed to maneuver at up to nine g's. This allows it to turn tighter than

Summary: US Air Force has ordered 126 craft to be used as 'target drones' F-16 able to offer 'realistic threat' similar to the Mig-29 . Will be controlled by operators on the ground during simulations .


The UCI will publish the Cycling Independent Reform Commission's report into whether the world governing body was complicit in past doping practices on Monday. The investigation centred on the UCI's dealings with doping findings and allegations during the late 1990s and early 2000s, including its handling of claims against Lance Armstrong, who has since admitted to using performance-enhancing drugs. A statement on uci.ch read: 'The Cycling Independent Reform Commission (CIRC) report has been delivered to the UCI president (Brian Cookson). Cyclists ride at the start of the 'Omloop Het Nieuwsblad' race in Belgium on February 28 . The Cycling Independent Reform Commission report has been delivered to UCI president Brian Cookson . 'The UCI will publish the report in the early hours of Monday, March 9, 2015. Until then, we will not make any comment on the report.' CIRC was a key part of Cookson's campaign pledge ahead of his election as UCI president in September 2013. Last month the Briton warned of some 'uncomfortable reading' ahead. 'We should all prepare ourselves for that,' Cookson said. 'When you open a can of worms, you find a lot of worms. It's going to be very interesting to see.' He also promised transparency, where legally possible. He added: 'We're not going to get into a FIFA-type situation of arguing about the report. 'If they want to redact anything, they can redact it. They may well give us some unredacted information as well, but the report that they give us will be the report that they say is able to go into the public domain.' The investigation centred on the UCI's dealings with doping findings and allegations during the late 1990s and early 2000s, including its handling of claims against Lance Armstrong, who has since admitted to using performance-enhancing drugs . CIRC was established in January 2014, with its terms of reference announced the following month. CIRC is independent from the UCI, chaired by Switzerland's former state prosecutor Dick Marty and included Peter Nicholson, an Australian who has investigated war crimes for the United Nations. Professor Ulrich Haas from Germany, a specialist in anti-doping rules who works for the Court of Arbitration for Sport, is the third person on the commission. The key to the commission's success may hinge on whether Cookson's predecessors agreed to give evidence. Pat McQuaid, the UCI president from 2005 to 2013, has declined to comment either way when asked if he had spoken to CIRC by Press Association Sport. Pat McQuaid, the UCI president from 2005 to 2013, has declined to comment either way . Hein Verbruggen, who was UCI president at the time of the Armstrong's seven Tour de France wins, was accused of helping to cover up a positive test by Armstrong, but has consistently denied the allegations. Armstrong stated in an interview with the BBC last month that he had given evidence to CIRC, although whether it reveals anything new or more than the United States Anti-doping Agency report which led to his downfall remains to be seen. CIRC has the power to reduce sanctions, but whether

Summary: UCI will publish the Cycling Independent Reform Commission's report into whether the world governing body was complicit in past doping practices . The investigation centred on the UCI's dealings with doping findings and allegations during the late 1990s and early 2000s .


Right now, the Solar Impulse 2 plane, covered in 17,000 solar cells, is making its way around the world on a five-month trip to highlight the benefits of solar technology. But if you want to see a more everyday benefit of solar power, one company has an answer - a bag strap that harnesses the energy of the sun. Imaginatively called the Sun Strap, it uses flexible solar panels made from waterproof materials to allow you to charge your phone, or any other gadget with a USB port, while out and about. Scroll down for video . This bag strap allows you to charge your phone and any other gadget with a USB port - using the energy of the sun. The Sun Strap is flexible solar panel made from weather and water proof material that can be attached to the strap of a bag . The £65.50 ($99) device was part of a successful Kickstarter project by Skajaquoda in Minnesota that raised £12,678 ($19,111) on the crowdfunding website. Weight: 5.8oz (165 grams) Size: 3” x 15” (7.6 x 38 cm) Battery: 5,600 mAh Lithium-ion . Outputs: 5V/1A . Input: 5V/1A . Compatible with: Apple, Samsung, HTC, Motorola, LG, GoPro and most others USB devices. As you walk around in the sun, the strap converts the sunlight into energy and charges an internal battery. That battery then charges anything connected to the USB or micro USB ports on the bottom of the device. When the device is fully charged on solar power it has enough energy to charge an an iPhone three and a half times or fully charge an iPad mini tablet. It can also be used as a camera strap to keep a camera charged even as it is being used. The lightweight device, weighing just 0.37lbs (165 grams), is designed to fit around any strap and can also be mounted to the frame of a bike to power electronics when on the move. The Sun Strap uses solar technology to store charge for various devices. The £65.50 ($99) device, annotated here, was part of a successful Kickstarter project by Skajaquoda in Minnesota that raised £12,678 ($19,111) on the crowdfunding website . As you walk around in the sun, the strap converts the sunlight into energy and charges an internal battery. It can be used on a variety of bags, including backpacks and a camera strap (shown) Einar Agustsson, 33, created the Sun Strap with his 25-year-old brother Agust. Mr Agustsson, who lives in Clarkfield, Minnesota in the US but is originally from Iceland, said: ‘When we looked at the portable solar products that were on the market we saw they either spent most of their time inside a bag while you were walking or they were very unattractive to wear. ‘We designed the Sun Strap to both be aesthetically pleasing and to always be exposed to the sun, and therefore always able to charge something. ‘Anyone can use the Sun Strap: cyclists, students or ordinary people going about their day. ‘The Sun Strap can be used in many different

Summary: Minnesota-based company has developed a solar powered charger . Called the Sun Strap, it can attach to almost any bag . Flexible and waterproof solar panels then charge devices . They can be plugged into the standard or mini-USB port . The Sun Strap weighs 0.37lbs (165 grams) and costs £65.60 ($99)


There were just 22 cases of meningitis W in 2009, but this shot up to 117 last year, according to Public Health England (file image) A major immunisation programme aims to protect teenagers against a potentially lethal new strain of meningitis after a steep rise in cases. There were just 22 cases of meningitis W in 2009, but this shot up to 117 last year, according to Public Health England. This is a rise of 431 per cent. Some experts said the levels could even indicate a public health emergency. While the rise was initially seen in adults, it has now extended to all age groups and, for the first time in a decade, young children have died as a result of MenW. There has also been a rise in cases among students. It is proposed to immunise teenagers aged 14 to 18 in an attempt to halt the disease’s spread. Andrew Pollard, chairman of the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation, said the upsurge in cases was caused by a ‘highly aggressive strain of the bug’. He said: ‘We reviewed the outbreak in detail and concluded that this increase was likely to continue in future years unless action is taken. ‘We have therefore advised the Department of Health to implement a vaccination programme for teenagers as soon as possible which we believe will have a substantial impact on the disease and protect the public’s health.’ Campaigners said the Government’s delay in introducing a vaccine against meningitis B – the last major strain of the disease – may have hindered the fight. Statistics show one baby dies every month in Britain from meningitis B and charities claim dozens of lives have needlessly been lost to the disease because of procrastination by officials. Chris Head, of the Meningitis Research Foundation, said: ‘We applaud the quick action by the Government to protect 14 to 18-year-olds using the MenACWY vaccine. ‘However, it will take more than a year for this protection to filter through to toddlers and infants, and in the meantime under-fives will still be dying and disabled as a result of MenW.’

Summary: There were 117 cases of meningitis W in 2014 compared to 22 in 2009 . Some experts claim the rise could indicate a public health emergency . For the first time some young children have died as a result of MenW .


A former Michigan high school football coach was arrested Friday and faces multiple charges including sending explicit images to students as young as 13 years old. Louis Michael Rau, 46, faces 12 charges including seven counts of distributing sexually explicit matter to a minor; four counts of selling or furnishing alcohol to a minor; and one count of accosting a minor for immoral purposes -- which is a four-year felony, the Morning Sun reports. Rau resigned from his position at the Beal City High School in January after complaints from parents about the coach's alleged inappropriate conduct led to an investigation by the Isabella County Sheriff's Department. Multiple Charges: Louis Rau, 46 (photographed), was arrested Friday and faces multiple charges including sending explicit images to students as young as 13 years old . During the investigation, the department conducted several interviews and searched phones, tablets, cameras, computers, DVD's, text messages and emails, Sheriff Leo Mioduszewski told MLive. The search found that Rau sent nude photos to five victims -- all student-athletes -- between 2011 and 2015, People reports. One of the victims was 13 when the ex-coach began sending him the sexually explicit photos, and all of the others were under 18 years old. Court records obtained by the Sun state that in addition to the photos, Rau gave the boys sex toys. Rau reportedly once gave an eighth grader a toy 'described as a vagina with a tube.' On four different occasions, the Sun reports, Rau purchased alcohol for three of the victims; court records note that both text messages and Rau's admission confirmed the purchases. Victims: The search found that Rau sent nude photos to five victims -- all student-athletes -- between 2011 and 2015 . Toys/Alcohol: Court records state that in addition to the photos, Rau also gave the boys sex toys and bought them alcohol . At Friday's arraignment, Rau's attorney, Dan O'Neill, described Rau as a 'home-grown boy' and noted that the 46-year-old had no criminal record, the Sun reports. He spoke of Rau's notoriety as 'the most celebrated football coach Beal City has ever had.' Rau's bail was set at $80,000, lowered from $120,000 which was set during the time of his arrest, the Sun reports. Upon his resignation, Rau, who also served as a substitute teacher at the school, was banned from school grounds except for school board meetings and public elections held at the school, MLive reports. As part of his bail conditions, Rau is not allowed in any school zones, not allowed to be in the presence of minors, not allowed to attend sporting events where minors or present, and is not allowed to contact the victims in any way, according to MLive. In 2006, Rau received a 14-day unpaid suspension for allegedly slapping a player at a football banquet. Slap: In 2006, Rau received a 14-day unpaid suspension for allegedly slapping a player at a football banquet . High School: A Beal City High School (photographyed) graduate, Rau began coaching at the school in 2000 and led the team to a state

Summary: Louis Rau, 46, was arrested Friday and faces multiple charges including sending sexually explicit images to minors . Rau allegedly sent the nude photos to five student-athletes, bought alcohol for the minors and sent them sex toys over a three-year period . The ex-coach is facing 12 charges, one of which is a four-year felony . Rau resigned in January after a parent complained to Beal City High School officials about Rau's inappropriate conduct .


Con Edison found a 'hazardous situation' in August in one of the three buildings that was destroyed in an explosion and fire in Manhattan's East Village last week. Utility workers dispatched in August found 'dangerous gas line connections' after a Con Edison worker reading gas meters smelled gas, according to a Con Edison spokesman. The worker smelled gas on August 6 in the basement of the building that exploded at 121 Second Avenue on Thursday. Scroll down for video . Photographs show the three buildings that entirely collapsed following the East Village explosion last week . Firefighters kept blasting water at pockets of flames among the rubble on Friday as it continued to smoulder . Cars were flattened by the debris as the three buildings collapsed overnight following the explosion . When they were at the building in August, the utility workers found 'multiple leaks' in hoses that were connected to the gas line, the New York Times reported. The company spokesman said Con Edison shut off the building's gas for about ten days, until it was determined to be safe. The owner of Sushi Park, the restaurant where the explosion occurred, told the Times that utility workers determined that gas intended for his restaurant was being siphoned off illegally for use in newly-renovated apartments upstairs. New York Mayor Bill de Blasio said on Friday that the blast was possibly tied to someone 'inappropriately' tapping into a gas line. An hour before the blast, Con Edison utility inspectors had been at the scene and determined that pre-existing work was not satisfactory, but the problems were not safety related, the mayor said. A general contractor who went to check out the gas leak report as Sushi Park was one of 50 people arrested in February in a sweep of the city by building and housing inspectors. Dilber Kukic was accused of bribing an undercover investigator to dismiss violations at two properties, the Manhattan District Attorney's office said. He is hospitalized and could not be reached for comment. In all 11 buildings were evacuated after the blast, leaving residents of 144 apartments needing places to stay . New York Mayor Bill de Blasio said it could take up to a week for rubble to be cleared from the explosion site . Firefighters have gone through the rubble but Nicholas Figueroa, 23, and Moises Luconare, 26, are stil missing . Twenty-two people were injured - four critically - and Nicholas Figueroa, 23, and Moises Lucon, 26, remain unaccounted for after the explosion. On Saturday, rescue crews with cadaver dogs clawed through smoldering rubble in the search for Figueroa and Lucon. Authorities said it could take a week of careful digging through twisted debris, bricks and splintered wood before the basement is reached. In all 11 buildings were evacuated, leaving residents of 144 apartments needing places to stay. Con-Ed said they may return to their homes as soon as Sunday. The Manhattan district attorney's office and the NYC Department of Investigation are looking into whether gas and plumbing work being done privately in one building led

Summary: Workers from the utility company found dangerous connections in August . The crew went to the building after someone smelled gas in the basement . Company shut off the building's gas for about ten days until it was 'safe' Blast occurred Thursday at Sushi Park restaurant at 121 Second Avenue . Workers with Con-Ed visited site hour before explosion to inspect gas work . Three buildings on block caught alight and collapsed in seven-alarm blaze . Nicholas Figueroa, 23, and Moises Lucon, 26, still missing after explosion . Contractor who investigated on Thursday was one of 50 people arrested in February sweep of the city by building and housing inspectors . The contractor, Dilber Kukic, was accused of bribing an undercover investigator to dismiss violations at two properties .


This incredible photograph from war-torn Syria shows a remarkable bus barricade built to protect civilians from government forces' sniper fire. Three single-decker buses can be seen turned upright to form a wall in the middle of a street in Aleppo, as a lone child walks past the makeshift barrier. The city has been ravaged by the country's civil war, with forces loyal to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad controlling much of the north of the settlement while the rebels occupy the south. Scroll down for videos . Bus barricade: Three single-decker buses can be seen turned upright to form a wall in the middle of a street in Aleppo, as a lone child walks past the makeshift barrier . Diplomacy remains stalled between the two sides, with rounds of peace talks between the Assad government and the opposition coming to nothing - including a proposed local ceasefire in Aleppo, the largest city in Syria. An estimated 31,000 people are said to have died in the city, however this number could be far higher, while the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights says at least 215,518 people had been killed throughout Syria since the uprising began four years ago. Aleppo has only 90 minutes of electricity a day and conditions are of 'grave concern', the International Committee of the Red Cross said. Last week the Red Cross evacuated 17 disabled people across frontlines in Aleppo for treatment, as well as restoring a hospital generator. There are fresh hopes that fighting could soon cease, at least temporarily, after US Secretary of State John Kerry said the time had come to 'negotiate' with Assad. Despite earlier insisting the the iron-fisted leader's days were numbered, Kerry said: 'Well, we have to negotiate in the end. We've always been willing to negotiate.' Destruction: Syrian civilians search for survivors in the rubble of a building knocked down by a bomb fired by forces loyal to President Bashar al-Assad . Rescuers hack through the rubble as they try to find any survivors following a strike by Syrian government forces, who continue to pound Aleppo with bombs . Kerry acknowledged that it would need increased pressure on Assad, 'to make it clear to him that there is a determination by everybody to seek that political outcome and change his calculation about negotiating'. 'That's underway right now. And I am convinced that, with the efforts of our allies and others, there will be increased pressure on Assad.' The conflict began as an anti-government uprising, with protesters taking to the streets on March 15, 2011, inspired by similar revolts in Egypt and Tunisia. But a fierce government crackdown on the demonstrations prompted a militarisation of the uprising and its descent into today's brutal conflict. The UN refugee agency UNHCR says Syria is now 'the biggest humanitarian emergency of our era', with around four million people fleeing abroad. Fight back: The rebels (pictured) control swathes of the south of the city with the help of their own firepower, but pockets of opposition-held territory in the north could soon be captured by the Syrian army .

Summary: Syrian civilians turn three buses upright to form a wall in the middle of a street to protect them from sniper fire . Single-decker buses used by the rebels to shelter people in Aleppo from attack by President Assad's forces . The city has been ravaged by the country's civil war, with the opposition and Syrian army battling for total control . An estimated 31,000 people have died in the city since 2011, however this number could be far higher, observers say .


A multi-million-pound office building just off Trafalgar Square has been taken over by anarchist squatters. Around 50 people are currently living in the former offices of the Institute of Directors on Pall Mall in central London after moving in on Friday night. The self-proclaimed 'Bourgeois Squatters' today vowed to stay put for 'as long as possible' in the building, not far from Buckingham Palace, which they targeted because it was originally opened by Tony Blair. Scroll down for video . Takeover: Squatters are living in this building on Pall Mall in central London, formerly home to the Institute of Directors . Window: The window is full of anarchist posters denouncing globalisation and the capitalist system . Inside: The interior of the empty office building now contains the squatters' personal belongings . They claim they are intending to highlight a 'housing crisis' in London - but insist that not all the squatters are political activists. Although they have already received a court summons, they ignored the document and did not attend the legal hearing. The property has ashtrays and drinks glasses strewn across the floor, while half-eaten in what appear to be Ocado and Co-op bags have been piled up in rooms. The anarchists say that they have not done any permanent damage to the building, designed by Scottish architect Alexander Peebles, apart from vandalising the plaque which records Mr Blair opening the premises in 2001. The building is currently on the market with estate agent Cluttons after being vacated several months ago by the IoD, which used it as an annexe to its main headquarters a few doors away. Food: Half-eaten meals in what appeared to be Ocado and Co-op bags were seen in a corner of the squat . Vandalised: This plaque recording the opening of the building by Tony Blair was defaced by the squatters . Posters: The Cluttons advert was defaced, while another poster showed the heads of Ed Miliband, Nick Clegg and David Cameron on stakes . Hallway: A welcome table appeared to have been set up at the bottom of the stairs in the building . Mockery: One of the anti-capitalist messages painted on a poster in the window . One squatter, 28-year-old Dominic, who was previously jailed for assaulting a police officer during an anti-capitalist protester, said that the group intended to take care of the building. Referring to the mess on the floor, he said: 'We do clean up after ourselves every morning - we just haven't had the chance to do it yet. 'When we leave they will get the building back in pretty much the same condition in which we found it in. We respect the property.' He added: 'We call ourselves Bourgeois Squatters. We all have different views. Some are here to make a political point, but some are not. 'But the main point for us all is that there are million, even billion, pound properties standing empty and I think it is disgusting that these buildings are left empty when there is a housing crisis going on in London. Message: A

Summary: Squatters moved into former Institute of Directors building on Friday . They intend to stay in the building on Pall Mall for 'as long as possible' Protester says they targeted building because it was opened by Tony Blair . Aggressive anti-capitalist slogans are on display in the windows .


Cockroaches might not be the most beloved of all critters - but is it ethical to control their movement with mind-control technology? That’s a debate engineers at Texas A&M University are stirring with their latest ‘robo-roach’ device, which can control the path a cockroach takes with wireless technology. They have created little backpacks for the bugs and implanted electrodes into their nervous system to control their movement. Scroll down for video . Texas engineers have developed a method to control cockroach movement. Their backpack stimulates the nervous system in the bugs' brains (image provided by Dr Hong Liang). Doing so allows the direction of their movement to be altered. It is different to previous technologies that stimulated antennae . This is not the first technology to turn cockroaches into controllable insects - others have even released products you can buy to create your own remote-controlled roach. But previous attempts to manipulate the movements of cockroaches relied on stimulating their antennae, tricking them into avoiding objects. The technology developed by Texas A&M University, meanwhile, works by stimulating nerves in the cockroach’s brain to allow for greater control. The paper, published in the Journal of the Royal Society Interface, details how the team built a small micro-controller, wireless receiver and a rechargeable lithium battery. These were packaged together in a ‘backpack’ weighing 0.007lbs (3g) that was attached to the cockroach. Next, they inserted electrodes into the body of a cockroach to stimulate its nervous system. By stimulating either left or right side, the team then found they could control the bug, although it only responded correctly about 60 per cent of the time. In tests, the researchers were able to control the movement of the cockroaches around obstacles (shown). While they can only control their direction for now, the researchers hope to advance the technology to have greater control, such as making it walk, run and stop on command . Speaking to The Guardian, lead researcher Dr Hong Liang said the benefits of such technology could include attaching cameras or sensors to cockroaches, and having them explore areas humans cannot - such as disaster zones. ‘Insects can do things a robot cannot,’ she said. ‘They can go into small places, sense the environment, and if there’s movement, from a predator say, they can escape much better than a system designed by a human. ‘We wanted to find ways to work with them.’ While they can only control their direction for now, the researchers hope to advance the technology to have greater control, such as making it walk, run and stop on command. In November 2014 researchers from North Carolina fitted the hardy creatures with electrical backpacks complete with tiny microphones to detect the faintest of sounds. The idea is that cyborg cockroaches, or ‘biobots’, could enter crumpled buildings hit by earthquakes, for example, and help emergency workers find survivors. ‘In a collapsed building, sound is the best way to find survivors,’ said Alper Bozkurt, an assistant professor of electrical and computer engineering at North Carolina State University. ‘The goal is to use the biobots

Summary: Texas engineers have developed a method to control cockroach movement . Their backpack stimulates the nervous system in the bugs' brains . Doing so allows the direction of their movement to be altered . It is different to previous technologies that stimulated antennae . The device could be used to explore disaster zones with cockroaches .


As the 'fight of the century' continues to heat up, Floyd Mayweather was full of confidence during the press conference as he was joined on stage by Justin Bieber - who has accompanied the undefeated champion on multiple occasions. Bieber has proved himself to be quite the good luck charm and took part in the ring walk in the boxer's last fight against Marcos Maidana. The 38-year-old champion couldn't help but bring his pop star friend on stage for a photo op after the press conference in Los Angeles for his superfight with Manny Pacquiao. Scroll down for video . Floyd Mayweather was joined on stage by pop sensation Justin Bieber at the press conference in Las Vegas . The Baby hitmaker tapped the 38-year-old boxer on the shoulder as he posed next to his opponent before the two greeted each other with a hug. Bieber did not hesitate to jump into the picture as the duo posed next to his friend's opponent Pacquiao. With a 47-0 record on the line, Mayweather knows this fight is without doubt the biggest of his career - and the most lucrative. The 21-year-old singer joined his 38-year-old fighter friend as well as opponent Manny Pacquiao . Bieber snuck behind the boxer and greeted him just in time for a photo op on the stage . Mayweather looked happy that his good luck charm had come to join him during the big media event . The boxer looked dapper for the big media event as he looked relaxed throughout the press conference. His 36-year-old opponent also seemed to be in his element during the media frenzy for a fight he's been gunning for over the past few years. Bieber has attended most of the boxer's fights in recent years and even got to enter the ring as one of Floyd's entourage members in May 2012. Bieber is a well-known boxing fan and has taken part in previous ring walks with Mayweather . Bieber put his arm around Mayweather for the photos in the build up for the Pacquiao fight . After the veteran boxer defeated Miguel Cotto at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, the Beauty And The Beat singer was lucky enough to hold up two of Mayweather's WBC belts. The match with Pacquiao has been years in the making as even on that night, he stated his desire to face the Filipino fighter. Mayweather told a US broadcaster for HBO after the fight: 'This fight right here, I was looking to fight Manny Pacquiao.' The biggest fight in boxing history comes to the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on May 2 . The highly-anticipated match-up has reached such an excitement that it will be the most expensive fight in boxing history. Prices in the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on May 2 will start at $1,500 (£1,000) in the rafters and rise to an unprecedented $7,500 (£5,000) at ringside. They are already fetching upwards of $150,000 (£100,500) on the black market. Hotels on the Strip are charging $1,000

Summary: Justin Bieber joined Floyd Mayweather on stage . Mayweather was taking part in the Manny Pacquiao press conference . Bieber has joined Mayweather on a number of occasions at his fights . READ: The full transcript of the Mayweather and Pacquiao press meeting . CLICK HERE for all the latest Mayweather vs Pacquiao news .


Peter Foster can no longer eat through this mouth and relies on a tube for all his bodily needs. Before that he couldn't taste or smell. The 20-year-old suffers from glaucoma - which has blinded his left eye and enabled only minor vision in his right - and his lung capacity is down to 35 percent. Peter also has micropthalmia, a congenital eye abnormality resulting in small eyeballs. But, despite having over 25 diagnoses and undergoing between 40 and 60 procedures in his short life, Foster remains incredibly optimistic. Scroll down for video . Inspiration: Ben Foster, 21, has developed quite a following line, thanks to his YouTube videos that document his many medical issues. He recently had to have a feeding tube inserted in his stomach . Ongoing issues: Peter has been plagued with sickness his whole life, and now relies on a tube (right) for all food and drink, unable to eat with his mouth. But he consistently remains optimistic in his online diaries . Peter's personal motto is simple. 'No matter what, it could always get worse,' he says. Peter has operated a YouTube account since 2011, documenting his medical issues. This week he posted his fist video in two, updating his channel's 16,150 subscribers. 'Over the last couple years, my health has deteriorated, but I'm still loving life,' he said. 'I now have an eating tube in my stomach. I eat totally via tube.' 'I get weak and I get tired very easily.' 'But I hope that you guys will watch my videos if I decide to start uploading again.' 'I just want to say to thank you to anyone who still watches my channel. God bless you.' The video is quickly gaining traction online, especially on Reddit, where Peter appears to have a decent amount of followers. According to The Daily Dot, one such follower posted this message of support: 'Understanding the struggles of others can help put our own lives in perspective and teach us to be more appreciative of what we have.'

Summary: Peter Foster, 20, is living with over 25 diagnoses . He has undergone between 40 to 60 procedures . He struggles to breath on his own and is almost completely blind . Peter posts inspiring videos about his condition on YouTube . His message is of resilience and hope .


Barbados could be set to replace the Queen as head of state after the Caribbean island's prime minister set out his plans for it to become a republic. Freundel Stuart told a branch meeting of his party, the Democratic Labour Party (DLP), last night that the shift would happen in the near future. George Pilgrim, general secretary of the party, also confirmed the development and said the removal of the Queen as head of state was expected to coincide with the 50th anniversary of the island's independence next year. Barbados Prime Minister Freundel Stuart, left, who has announced plans for the Caribbean island nation to replace the Queen as head of state . A draft bill would have to be put to before the country's parliament, but Mr Pilgrim said: 'We don't expect any opposition coming from the opposition party.' 'This will move the country through to the next major step in the process of nationhood. 'The prime minister said he found it awkward to have to stand up to pledge allegiance to Her Majesty the Queen.' If the Queen is replaced as head of state, the island nation will retain links with the British Crown through its membership of the Commonwealth. However, Downing Street has said it was not aware of the decision, which was announced by Mr Stuart last night. A spokesman for Prime Minister David Cameron said: 'I expect the approach will be consistent with self determination, decisions around this being a matter for the people involved. The Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh on their last visit to Barbados in 1989, when they flew to the island on Concorde . Meanwhile a spokesman for Buckingham Palace told Mailonline it was a matter for the government and the people of Barbados . The Queen last visited Barbados 26 years ago in 1989 for the 350th anniversary of the Barbados parliament. Prince Harry took a three-day trip there in 2010 when he played in a polo match for his charity Sentebale. The Earl and Countess of Wessex were the last British royals to visit the nation, in February and March last year. The eastern Caribbean nation became independent from Britain in 1966 but kept the Queen as its official head of state. The Queen is represented on the island by the largely ceremonial role of the governor general. A map showing the east Caribbean island of Barbados, which gained full independence in 1966 after being a British colony . Plans to make Barbados a republic have been on the horizon for a number of years. In 2005, the then prime minister Owen Arthur outlined his proposals for dropping the Queen in favour of a locally elected president, but the process was not completed. The same year, Barbados made the Caribbean Court of Justice its final court of appeal, rather than the London-based Privy Council, which has long served as the highest court of appeal for many ex-British colonies. In 2012, Jamaican prime minister Portia Simpson Miller also pledged to replace the Queen as head of state. Barbados was colonised by

Summary: Prime Minister Freundel Stuart set out plans for island to become republic . This would mean that the Queen would be replaced as head of state . Removal could coincide with 50th anniversary of nation's independence . Mr Stuart is said to find it awkward to stand up and pledge allegiance to the Queen .


A young female doctor has bravely penned a blog post exposing the daily sexism she faces within the medical industry and admits she's scared she will now lose her job for going public. Melbourne doctor Ashleigh Witt revealed in the online post the varying degrees of sexual harassment she and other women have experienced following a Sydney surgeon's controversial comments last week. Vascular surgeon Dr Gabrielle McMullin suggested young women in the field should 'just accept unwanted sexual advances' because sexism was so rife among doctors. She was referring to a woman named Caroline who won a case against a doctor accused of sexually assaulting her, but was then unable to get work at any public hospital. Melbourne doctor Ashley Witt has bravely penned a blog post exposing the daily sexism she faces within the medical indudstry . Dr Witt admits she is concerned her career could be jeopardised by her decision to speak out about sexism . 'Her career was ruined by this one guy asking for sex on this night. And, realistically, she would have been much better to have given him a blow job on that night,' Dr McMullin told ABC radio on Friday. Dr Witt said in her blog post the Sydney surgeon wasn't the problem. 'She is simply the messenger. The problem here is a system where reporting sexual harassment is vehemently discouraged,' she wrote. The Melbourne-based trainee doctor, who describes herself as a moderately pretty blonde, said medicine's secret catchphrase was: 'Keep your mouth shut and you'll be fine.' 'We all have stories about sexual harassment at work - some of them subtle, some of them shocking. And yet person after person (mostly men, although I can't imagine why), have stood up and said sexual harassment is not a problem in medicine. Vascular surgeon Dr Gabrielle McMullin has suggested young women in the field should 'just accept unwanted sexual advances' because sexism was so rife among doctors . The Melbourne-based trainee doctor, who describes herself as a moderately pretty blonde, said medicine's secret catchphrase was: 'Keep your mouth shut and you'll be fine' 'Perhaps we aren't understanding what sexual harassment is. Perhaps we're associating it with only the extreme example of rape, when it encompasses so much more than unwanted physical touching,' Dr Witt said. She then went on to list the varying degrees of sexism she has faced. 'Sexual harassment is every time you call me 'blondie' or 'barbie', every time you make a joke about my choice to wear a skirt not pants, every time you comment on my appearance rather than my skillset, every time you call me a 'lady doctor' instead of a 'doctor'. 'Sexual harassment is two weeks ago when I lead a code blue which saved a woman on the labour ward and my male colleague arrived after the fact and said 'they shouldn't send you up here, you're too clucky'. 'It's the consultant who commented that I'd 'obviously gotten to where I was at a young age because I was pretty'. 'It's the surgical registrar who told me if

Summary: Ashleigh Witt wrote a blog exposing daily sexism in medical industry . Trainee doctor was responding to Sydney surgeon Dr Gabrielle McMullin . Dr McMullin suggested women should 'just accept unwanted sexual advances' because sexism was so rife among doctors . Dr Witt's post hits out at industry that she claims discourages reporting sexual harassment .


Police have called for witnesses to help them put someone who allegedly unknowingly filmed women in the shower, on the train and licked the back of neck behind bars. A 38-year-old has been in custody since a court appearance in January, and was charged with 17 counts of filming person's private parts without consent, trespassing, peep and pry and acts of indecency. Ryde Local Area Command Crime Manager Detective Inspector Richard Puffett said police are now trying to identify the victims, and potential witnesses. Police have called for witnesses to help them put someone who allegedly unknowingly filmed women in the shower, on the train and licked the back of neck . 'Some of the images include 'up-skirting'; peep and pry where people have been filmed in their own homes showering; women travelling on trains where another passenger has allegedly licked the back of their heads; and the reactions of women to an act of indecency,' Det Insp Puffett said. It is believed one victim is aged under 16. A property in Sydney's north was raided last December, which resulted in the seizure of a GoPro camera and a number of electronic storage devices. The storage devices show acts of peep and pry, voyeurism and 'up-skirting' conduct, along with acts of indecency, an indecent assault, and aggravated break and enter offences. A 38-year-old has remained in custody since a court appearance in January, and was charged with 17 counts of filming person's private parts without consent, trespassing, peep and pry and acts of indecency . Police believe the footage comes from up to 40 different incidents. 'The images were taken in Carlingford, Epping, Beecroft, Normanhurst and Thornleigh areas between October and December 2014,' Det Insp Puffett said. 'We have released two images of females; we believe they may have witnessed one of these incidents, or could have been a victim. We are hoping they may come forward and speak to police.' The investigation is ongoing, with police calling on witnesses or victims to come forward to help. The person was remanded to reappear in Parramatta Local Court on 12 March 2015.

Summary: Women unknowingly filmed in shower, on train and in public by creep . Police believe footage is from up to 40 separate incidents across Sydney . Raided property last December and found GoPro and storage devices . One victim caught on camera believed to be aged under 16 . 38-year-old due to face court Thursday, has been held since January .


Russian President Vladimir Putin joined tens of thousands of cheering supporters to mark one year since his takeover of Crimea - a move that shattered ties with Ukraine and the West. Putin appeared on stage today at a celebratory concert by the walls of the Kremlin to make an impassioned justification for seizing the Black Sea peninsula. Scroll down for video . Impassioned justification: Russian President Vladimir Putin told crowds the takeover of Crimea was to help and support 'our compatriots' An estimated 110,000 people attended the concert marking one year since Putin's takeover of Crimea . Putin looked energetic and spoke forcefully to the enthusiastic crowd, which gathered just off the Red Square near St Basil's Cathedral . Festivities: The concert was the culmination of days of highly-choreographed nationwide celebrations . 'We understood that in terms of Crimea it was not a matter of just some territory, however strategically important it is,' Putin told the flag-waving crowd before joining in a rendition of the national anthem. 'It was a matter of millions of Russian people, our compatriots, who needed our help and support.' Putin, who resurfaced Monday after a 10-day absence from public view that fueled intense speculation about his health and hold on power, looked energetic and spoke forcefully to the enthusiastic crowd, which gathered just off the Red Square near St Basil's Cathedral. A member of the crowd said: 'It means a lot to us, it was always ours after all. Our grandparents shed their blood for it' Women dance in the street and a Russian flag is waved in the background at the anniversary celebrations . Crowds disperse as the celebrations draw to a close. St Basil Cathedral can be seen behind Putin's supporters . Missing: Putin resurfaced Monday after a 10-day absence from public view that fueled intense speculation about his health and hold on power . Bust unveiled in President Vladimir Putin's honour . Russian President Vladimir Putin has been immortalised in bronze. The bust will be installed near St Petersburg in May by Russian Cossacks. The statue portrays Putin as Roman emperor Julius Caesar. The concert in Moscow - believed to have been attended by 110,000 people - was the culmination of days of highly-choreographed nationwide festivities to mark the anniversary. He ended his speech with three words: 'Long live Russia.' Despite condemnation from the West and Kiev that the radical redrawing of Europe's borders amounted to an illegal land grab, people at the event echoed the belief of many Russians that the annexation had corrected a historical injustice. 'It means a lot to us, it was always ours after all. Our grandparents shed their blood for it,' said security guard Alexei, 39. Putin signed a treaty claiming the Black Sea region of Crimea as Russian territory with Crimean prime minister Sergei Aksyonov two days after more than 97 per cent of Crimeans voted in favour of joining Russia in a disputed referendum on March 16 last year. The poll - unrecognised by the international community - was held under the eyes of elite Russian

Summary: Russian President Vladimir Putin marked anniversary of Crimea takeover . He appeared on stage at a celebratory concert by the walls of the Kremlin . He made an impassioned justification for seizing the Black Sea peninsula . President Putin claims takeover was to help and support 'our compatriots' Russia's annexation of Crimea shattered ties with Ukraine and the West .


Fox News anchor Gregg Jarrett has credited CEO Roger Ailes with saving his life as he struggled with alcoholism last year. Jarrett first revealed his addiction after slurring during a broadcast in April 2014 and a few weeks later, just hours after leaving rehab, he was arrested for drunkenly swearing at an airport police officer in Minnesota - in an embarrassing debacle caught on camera. But in an astonishing turnaround, the 59-year-old is now back in the Fox News anchor seat and healthier than ever - and he believes he has his boss to thank. 'Roger Ailes was the first person to step in and come to my rescue,' he told TV Newser. 'I don't want to sound overly dramatic, but I don't think I'd be here today if not for Roger.' Back at work: Gregg Jarrett is pictured back on air earlier this year following his public struggle with alcohol last year, which included his arrest in a Minnesota airport just hours after he left rehab . In the interview, Jarrett said Ailes, the chairman and CEO of Fox News, was the first person he admitted his addiction to following his meltdown on television last year. Fox News later announced that Jarrett had stepped down from his role as anchor for 'personal reasons' and he went to a rehab facility in Minnesota. But after checking out, he had an 'immediate relapse' and a bar employee at Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport called police after he became unruly and started bothering another customer. Footage of the arrest, which was released, shows him calling an officer a 'f***ing stupid ass' before the officer grabs his arm and forces his face against a wall, then slams him into the cell's bench. After the altercation, he was taken to the Hennepin County Adult Detention Center in Minneapolis but was released after posting $300 bond the following day. Thankful: Jarrett, pictured in his mug shot after his arrest last year, said Fox News CEO Roger Ailes, pictured left, helped him fight through his addiction and told him he would have a job to come back to . His mug shot and security footage showing the arrest were soon posted across the internet. 'When I saw the videotape, I was heartbroken,' Jarrett recalled. 'Because that's not me, that's not who I am. And yet, through alcoholism that's what I've become.' But Ailes still refused to give up on Jarrett, telling him: 'We can beat this.' The CEO assured the anchor that his job was safe and that he would continue to get paid, while also regularly checking in on his wife and their two daughters, Grace, 18, and Olivia, 16. Thinking of what he put his daughters through, Jarrett told TV Newser: 'It breaks my heart.' He also hired lawyers to handle Jarrett's case in Minnesota and got him admitted to the Betty Ford Center, while dispatching a Fox News producer to travel with him. Arrest: A video showing Jarrett's arrest by airport police reveals him swearing at a police officer . They forced him down and cuffed him

Summary: Jarrett's addiction emerged last year after he slurred during a live broadcast in April then took time off 'for personal reasons' But weeks later, just hours after leaving rehab, he was arrested for drunkenly scrapping with a police officer in a Minnesota airport . But Fox CEO and Chairman Roger Ailes promised him his old job and continued to pay him, while setting up another rehab stint for him . He continues to check in with Ailes and his family . 'I don't think I'd be here today if not for Roger,' Jarrett said in an interview .


The House of Representatives . approved full fiscal-year funding for the United States' domestic security . agency on Tuesday, dealing a blow to conservative Republicans . who wanted Congress to hold out for a bill that included language blocking President . Barack Obama's recent executive orders on immigration. The House, 257-167, backed a Senate-passed funding . bill stripped of any immigration provisions, ending a bitter . fight that raised new questions about House Speaker John . Boehner's ability to manage fractious conservatives, who accused him of 'capitulation' after the Tuesday vote . Obama has said he will sign the funding bill for the . Department of Homeland Security, which spearheads domestic . counterterrorism efforts. Spending authority for the department . was scheduled to end at midnight on Friday. House Speaker John Boehner of Ohio walks to the House chamber on Tuesday as it votes on funding for the Homeland Security Department without provisions attached to counter President Barack Obama's executive actions on immigration. They suffered embarrassing internal divisions that left the country within hours of a partial agency shutdown last week but passed a full fiscal-year funding bill today . The agency came within hours of a partial shutdown last week but the House approved a one-week extension of funding that was later approved by voice vote in the Senate and signed into law by the president. The drama began in December when the legislative branch passed a measure appropriating money to every single government agency through Sept. 30 but DHS, which it only funded through the end of February. Republicans hoped that once they took the majority in January they would have the resources to use the spending bill as a cudgel against Democrats. Yet after weeks of bickering, Boehner ultimately found himself last week with few - . if any - viable procedural options to keep the agency open while . also satisfying conservatives who wanted the funding bill to . block Obama's executive actions last year lifting the threat of . deportation for millions of undocumented residents. Senate Democrats had repeatedly blocked a House-passed bill . that included the immigration provisions, while Obama and . Democrats backed a 'clean' funding bill passed by the Senate. 'What direction do we have?' House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy told reporters on Tuesday. Meanwhile, many of the GOP's rank and file seemed ready for the whole debacle to be over. 'It's time to move forward and stop playing these silly games,' Rep. Charlie Dent, a moderate Pennsylvania Republican, said. 'Let's prove to the American people that we're serious about protecting this homeland and that we have the capacity to govern.' 'Sanity is prevailing. I do give John Boehner credit,' New York Rep. Peter King said. Rep. Mike Simpson of Idaho said he's against Obama's immigration directives, but the 'security of the homeland is one of our highest priorities.' Several Republicans said they would be better served by . putting their energy into legal strategies to overturn Obama's . immigration actions, which have been put on hold by the courts. 'This is where we

Summary: It was a blow to Republicans who wanted Congress to hold out for a bill that included language blocking President Obama's immigration orders . The House, 257-167, backed a Senate-passed funding bill stripped of any immigration provisions, ending a bitter fight on Capitol Hill . Money for the department was scheduled to run out at midnight on Friday . 'This is a very, very sad day,' said Republican Rep. Matt Salmon of Arizona. 'If we're not going to fight now, when are we going to fight?' Rep. Steve King of Iowa argued that 'this is the signal of capitulation' Senate Democratic leader Harry Reid called the ordeal an 'unnecessary showdown' DHS chief Jeh Johnson thanked members 'who showed the leadership necessary to get the job done'


Lionel Messi's brilliant nutmeg on James Milner left the Manchester City midfielder on his backside, Pep Guardiola covering his face and Twitter reacting to the Barcelona star's masterclass. It was Messi's second nutmeg of the match, having already inflicted the same embarrassment on Fernandinho after the Argentina captain's assist created the game's only goal for Ivan Rakitic. 'I've got my legs closed up here,' said Sky Sports commentator Gary Neville, who labelled the Milner nutmeg 'barbaric' and was among those admiring the tutorial from the world's best footballer. James Milner approaches Barcelona star Lionel Messi during their Champions League tie on Wednesday . Messi slips the ball through Manchester City midfielder Milner's legs at the Nou Camp . Milner slides as Messi nutmegs him and goes the opposite way during their Champions League match . Milner is left on his backside as Messi runs away from the England international with the ball . Former Barcelona manager Pep Guardiola reacts to the nutmeg in the stands at the Nou Camp . Bayern Munich manager Guardiola reacts to the ridiculous skill from Messi during the Barca match . Match of the Day presenter Gary Lineker settled the argument of who's better between the Barcelona star and Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo. 'Messi is indisputably the greatest player ever to don a pair of football boots. Don't even attempt to argue the point,' he tweeted. Manchester United's Ashley Young simply wrote 'Messi WOW', while Queens Park Rangers striker Charlie Austin added: 'Pep's reaction says it all.' He was referring to former Barcelona boss Pep Guardiola, sitting in the stands in awe, covering his eyes. Liverpool defender Jose Enrique tweeted: 'If Messi played against City on his own, he would still win the game. [He] is amazing. Best in the world when he wants.' Stoke City goalkeeper Jack Butland echoed commentator Neville by 'watching the game with my legs closed' and Dutch manager Ruud Gullit added: 'OMG. Messi made Milner famous.' Then there was Andre Schurrle who simply wrote 'again and again and again...' while darts player Adrian 'Jackpot' Lewis wrote: 'Messi could nutmeg a mermaid.' England legend Gary Lineker settled the argument of who's better between Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo . Manchester United's Ashley Young was among those admiring the Barcelona star and wrote: 'Messi WOW' Queens Park Rangers striker Charlie Austin wrote that Guardiola's reaction said it all about Messi's skills . Liverpool defender Jose Enrique wrote Messi could play against City on his own and 'still win the game' Matt Le Tissier tweeted about how he was sitting back and watching Messi work his magic in Barcelona . Stoke City goalkeeper Jack Butland echoed Gary Neville by 'watching the game with my legs closed' Dutch manager Ruud Gullit took to Twitter and added: 'OMG. Messi made Milner famous' Former Chelsea player Andre Schurrle wrote about Messi's nutmegs: 'Again and again and again...' Darts player Adrian 'Jackpot' Lewis wrote on Twitter that 'Messi could nutmeg a mermaid' Crystal Palace defender Joel Ward simply used the hashtag #Messi with prayer emoticons . Former Manchester United and

Summary: Lionel Messi inflicts nutmegs on Fernandinho and James Milner . The nutmeg on Milner leaves the City midfielder on his backside . Barcelona 1-0 Manchester City (agg 3-1) - read the match report here . READ: Messi hits back at critics as forward celebrates Father's Day . CLICK HERE for all the latest Barcelona news .


U.S. talk show host John Oliver has compared the leadership of Prime Minister Tony Abbott to watching a car crash in slow motion. The host of HBO's Last Week Tonight, a satirical news and current affairs program, called Mr Abbott a 'car crash of a human being' but said that his behaviour was still entertaining to watch. 'It's like watching a truck jack-knife on a road. It's like, "It didn't crash this time. Let's give it five minutes, then it's going into a ditch",' Oliver said. Scroll down for video . The host of HBO's Last Week Tonight called Mr Abbott a 'car crash of a human being' but said that his behaviour was still entertaining to watch . The English-born funny man, who hosted a summer season of The Daily Show with Jon Stewart, told The Sydney Morning Herald that Mr Abbott was a fascinating man. 'The fact he's the leader of a country is in itself appealing as a comic. What's nice is being able to present someone who people have not seen here [in the US] and just to give them a glimpse into other people's pain, as well as their own,' he said. Oliver has previously lampooned Abbott on Last Week Tonight, featuring the Australian Prime Minister for his 'Other Presidents of the United States' segment in June last year. The popular HBO show – which has a large online fan base with more than 1.3 million subscribers on YouTube – satirised Mr Abbott's stance on immigration, the way his religious beliefs impact his policies, his views on homosexuality and his comments about women. The comedian presented a series of clips to suggest reasons why Mr Abbott's approval rating had fallen to 30%, showing a clip from The ABC's Q&A where the Prime Minister discussed his hardline 'stop the boats' policy. 'Jesus knew there was a place for everything and it is not necessarily everyone’s place to come to Australia,' Mr Abbott said. 'It's like watching a truck jack-knife on a road. It's like, "It didn't crash this time. Let's give it five minutes, then it's going into a ditch",' Oliver said about Mr Abbott's leadership . The English-born funny man, who hosted a summer season of The Daily Show with Jon Stewart, said that Mr Abbott was a fascinating man . Oliver has previously lampooned Abbott on Last Week Tonight, featuring the Australian Prime Minister for his 'Other Presidents of the United States' segment . Oliver's voice-over satirically points out that 'Australia is for real Australians like Tony Abbott, who was born in London, England,' and labelled his 'rhetorical inconsistency' as personally insulting 'everyone in the country'. Oliver is also no stranger to Australian politics, having interviewed former prime minister John Howard for his story on gun control while reporting for The Daily Show. 'I'm not a huge fan of [Howard], so hurting his feelings was not the worst thing that had ever happened to me,' Oliver said, describing the interview as 'bumpy'. The comedian has also previously labelled Australia one of 'the most comfortably racist places'

Summary: U.S. talk show host John Oliver labelled Mr Abbott 'a car crash of a human' He said it was like seeing a truck 'jack knife', knowing it will end in a ditch . Oliver said the fact Mr Abbott was an elected politician was comical . Last year Oliver slammed Tony Abbott by playing a series of gaffes . He played a reel of the PM speaking on immigration, women, and religion .


K9 Tragedy: Montville police say its K9 officer, Beny, died from injuries consistent with heat stroke, while in the back of a police vehicle in the parking lot of the police department on September 28 . An Ohio cop has been convicted of animal cruelty for letting his police dog roast to death in his patrol car last year. Sergeant Brett Harrison will not face any jail time. His only punishment: a $500 fine and court costs. The Montville Township officer outraged the community when he left his two-year-old German Shepard Beny in his squad car for four hours with the windows rolled up last September. The dog was found dead in his kennel in the car when Harrison returned. On Wednesday, Judge Dale M. Chase ruled that Harrison was guilty of one of two misdemeanor counts of animal cruelty. Following Beny's death, Harrison publicly apologized and said he had left the car running with his air conditioning on. He said he didn't mean to leave the dog in a hot car. The temperature when the officer arrived on station was 69 degrees and it was 79 degrees when the dog was found. An investigation concluded Harrison violated policy and procedures. The police department suspended him for two weeks without pay and docked him 40 hours of vacation. Montville Police welcomed K9 Officer Beny to the department in September 2013. Beny was trained in narcotics and patrol. When Harrison returned to the cruiser after leaving him for four hours, he discovered the dog lying lifeless in the rear passenger compartment’s kennel . Sgt. Harrison cared deeply about Beny. He worked with him 40+ hours a week and Beny lived with Sgt. Harrison and his family when the two were off duty. He is said to be overwhelmed with grief . Harrison issued a statement expressing his 'deepest apology' to Montville Township and to his 'partner, friend and loving family member Beny.' 'This is a loss that words cannot describe, and it is very difficult for everyone involved,' said Chief Terry Grice. 'There is no doubt that this loss will have a lasting impact on Sgt. Harrison and our entire department.' A statement from the department also said that Sgt. Harrison cared deeply about Beny. He worked with the dog more than 40 hour a week and Beny lived with Sgt. Harrison and his family when the two were off duty. Sgt. Harrison was overwhelmed with grief and is taking this loss very hard, the chief added. Sgt. Harrison was found to have violated policy and procedures. He received a two-week unpaid suspension and a loss of 40 hours of vacation . Sgt. Brett Harrison didn’t leave the windows open and the cruiser was turned off; the temperature at the time Harrison arrived at the station was 69 degrees and it was 79 degrees when the dog was discovered . Police say Sgt. Harrison has been an exemplary officer who has never received discipline since being hired onto the department in 2007 . Sgt. Harrison had been an exemplary officer who has never

Summary: German shepherd, Beny, died after his handler Sgt. Brett Harrison left him in a hot car . Despite expressing remorse and his exemplary police work over seven years, the cop was hit with criminal charges . Convicted of misdemeanor animal cruelty .


Elena Komleva (pictured) has advertised for a man to get her pregnant . A Russian beauty has advertised for a man to get her pregnant - because she was fed up with her mother nagging her about not having grandchildren. Elena Komleva, from Cheliabinsk in southern Russia, placed the advert on a social media website - and was soon flooded with offers. The 29-year-old toe-nail painting artist described it as a 'contest' adding that her mother would select the winning candidate. Taking to her Vkontakt page - the equivalent of a Facebook profile - she wrote: 'My mother needs grandchildren to give them all the baby clothes she has been collecting. But nobody wants to marry me yet. 'So, if you are young, strong and healthy drop me a line. 'My mother will be in charge of selecting the candidates and announcing the winner. She knows what I need.' She has already been inundated with offers from men, with many posting replies to her advert. Yuri Yuriev, 28, said: 'Hmm, a woman in need - I am here to help.' Kuzma Tretiakov, 25, said: 'I’m young, strong and healthy and ready to go.' But while her Vkontakt friends offered support and congratulations on her idea - with friend Sergey Mironov and others posting 'Happy birthday, all the best and good luck to you' - some were more concerned. Borislav Baranov, 28, said: 'I’d love to help her, but her mother seems a bit of a nightmare.' And Leonid Ponomaryov said: 'What about morals? Can this be right?' Komleva, from Cheliabinsk in southern Russia, placed the advert on a social media website - and was soon flooded with offers . In response Ms Komleva is reported as having said: 'There is nothing for me to be ashamed of. I was in love once, but I was also unhappy. 'I am hoping to find a husband, but if I only find a biological father that’s also ok. At least it will stop my mum going on at me.' She says she is now sorting through the applicants and shortlisting them - with her mother.

Summary: Elena Komleva, of Cheliabinsk, Russia, placed advert on a social media site . 29-year-old beauty said she wanted to end her mother's constant nagging . Toe-nail painting artist was quickly inundated with offers from hopeful men . She has revealed that the winning candidate will be selected by her mother .


Pamela Smart's former teenage lover has been granted parole nearly 25 years after he shot her husband dead at her request. William 'Billy' Flynn, who murdered Gregg Smart in 1990, was granted parole by a three-person board in Concord, New Hampshire on Thursday, his 41st birthday. 'It's your birthday,' said board chairwoman Donna Sytek. 'We're granting you the privilege of parole.' Flynn has been in a Maine prison and participated in the hearing by telephone, telling the board that he'd always be haunted by the killing. 'I will always feel terrible about what happened 25 years ago,' he said. 'Parole will not change that.' Freed: Billy Flynn (pictured in court in 2008) has been granted parole after 25 years behind bars . He will not be freed before his parole eligibility date of June 4 - but when he does leave, he will be reunited with his wife, whom he married from behind bars, and a stepdaughter. Smart, who is serving a life sentence, was an instructor in a self-awareness program at Winnicunnet High School in Hampton when she seduced 15-year-old Flynn, a fellow volunteer. She told him she needed her 24-year-old husband killed because she feared she would lose everything, including her dog and furniture, if she divorced him. On May 1, 1990, Flynn, then 16, and 17-year-old Patrick Randall entered the Smarts' Derry condominium and forced Gregory Smart, a sales representative for an insurance company, to his knees in the foyer, while another friend waited outside in a getaway car. As Randall held a knife to the man's throat, Flynn shot him in the head. Before his parole decision was issued, the victim's brother, Dean Smart, read a letter from his 23-year-old daughter, Ashley. Family: Dean Smart (left), the brother of victim Gregg Smart, speaks during the parole hearing in Concord, New Hampshire on Thursday. He said that he hopes Flynn will now make something better of his life . Decision: A three-person board, pictured, granted the parole on Thursday, Flynn's 41st birthday . 'Mr. Flynn is only in this situation because he decided to play God one night and take an innocent man's life,' her letter said. 'You singlehandedly destroyed a whole family.' But Dean Smart struck a more hopeful note. 'I hope he does something great with his life,' he said. Before the parole was granted, another brother, Rick Smart, had told the Boston Herald that he believed Flynn should be freed because he was a teenager at the time and has served his time. 'Don't get me wrong, I'm not saying he shouldn't have been punished,' he said. 'But I want to put this behind me and I'm sure he wants to put it behind him.' Flynn, who earned his GED and electrician's helper license behind bars, said finding a job will be his biggest challenge, noting that employers immediately search his name on the Internet. 'The first they learn about me is the worst thing I've ever done,' he said. Teacher: Pamela Smart (seen in 1991) was convicted of conspiring with her teen lover, William 'Billy'

Summary: William 'Billy' Flynn was granted parole by a three-person board in New Hampshire on Thursday - his 41st birthday . He is being held in a prison in Maine so took part in the hearing by phone . He will not be freed before June 4 but will then be reunited with his wife Kelly, whom he married from behind bars in 2006 . Flynn was seduced by teacher Pamela Smart, then 22, and shot dead her husband Gregg Smart, 24, in 1990 . At Pamela Smart's trial, Flynn said she had threatened to break up with him if he didn't kill her husband, but she denies knowing about the murder . Smart is serving life in prison without the possibility of parole . The case inspired the 1995 movie 'To Die For' starring Nicole Kidman and Joaquin Phoenix .


A prosecutor who sent an innocent man to death row for 30 years has apologized to him and admitted he was more interested in winning the case than achieving justice. Attorney A.M. 'Marty' Stroud III, from Shreveport, Louisiana, admitted that he was to blame for putting father-of-four Glenn Ford behind bars in 1984 for the fatal shooting of a jeweler. 'In 1984, I was 33 years old,' he wrote in a letter to The Shreveport Times. 'I was arrogant, judgmental, narcissistic and very full of myself. I was not as interested in justice as I was in winning.' Ford, now 65, was released from the prison in Angola in March 2014 but last month, he learned he has stage four lung cancer and just four to eight months left to live. Scroll down for video . Apologies: Attorney A.M. 'Marty' Stroud III, pictured, has written a lengthy letter apologizing to an innocent man he sent to death row as he slammed the state for refusing to pay the man compensation . Earlier this month, the state argued that Ford is not entitled to receive compensation for his time behind bars because he is unable to prove he is 'factually innocent'. In his letter, Stroud, 63, slammed the decision. 'Glenn Ford should be completely compensated to every extent possible because of the flaws of a system that effectively destroyed his life,' Stroud said. 'The audacity of the state's effort to deny Mr. Ford any compensation for the horrors he suffered in the name of Louisiana justice is appalling.' Ford was accused of shooting Isadore Rozeman, a Shreveport jeweler and watchmaker for whom Mr Ford had done occasional yard work, in 1983 and was convicted the following year. He was sent to prison, where he lived with little light or heat, while Stroud, who had been with the Caddo District Attorney's office for two years, went out to celebrate by having drinks with his team. 'That's sick,' he said in his letter. 'I had been entrusted with the duty to seek the death of a fellow human being, a very solemn task that certainly did not warrant any "celebration".' From behind bars, Ford continued to protest his innocence. Glenn Ford, now 65, was convicted of an 1983 murder but was released a year ago after evidence showed he was not at the scene. He has since been diagnosed with cancer and has four to eight months to live . Then in 2013, State District Judge Ramona Emanuel voided the conviction and sentence based on the new information that corroborated his claim he was not present or involved in Rozeman's death. 'My fault was that I was too passive,' Stroud said in his letter. 'Had I been more inquisitive, perhaps the evidence would have come to light years ago... Wrongly accused: Ford, a father-of-four (pictured in a booking photo), was sent to death row in 1984 . 'I did not hide evidence, I simply did not seriously consider that sufficient information may have been out there that could have led to a different conclusion. And

Summary: Marty Stroud has admitted he was to blame for wrongly putting Glenn Ford behind bars in 1983 for the shooting death of his former employer . Ford, now 65, was freed a year ago after evidence emerged showing he was not at the scene of the murder . He has been diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer and has 4-8 months to live . The state have refused to pay him compensation because they argue he cannot prove he is 'factually innocent' Shroud slammed 'appalling' decision in a letter apologizing to Ford . He said if he had taken more time to ask the proper questions, he might have uncovered the evidence that ultimately led to Ford's release .


To the untrained eye it may appear to be nothing more than an unfinished DIY project, but this is in fact a rare work by abstract artist Mark Rothko - which is set to sell for £35million. The painting, No. 36 (Black Stripe) has never appeared at auction before but is seen as one of Rothko's seminal works and has featured in every major museum exhibition about the artist. Rothko is widely regarded as being one of the most important American post-war artists, alongside Jackson Pollock, and this work was completed in 1958 at the height of his influence. Rare: This work by Mark Rothko, No. 36 (Black Stripe), has not been on the market for 30 years and auctioneers expect a bidding war when it goes under the hammer in New York in May . As with most Rothko artworks, the canvas is massive, measuring 5ft 7in by 5ft 2in, and features three rectangles of red, black and orange layered over a red background. The piece is from the collection of the Museum Frieder Burda in Baden-Baden, Germany, one of Europe's most important and prestigious private museums for contemporary art. Painted by Rothko at the height of his influence in 1958, it is viewed as one of the seminal works by one of America's greatest post-war artists . Enthusiast Frieder Burda acquired the painting more than 30 years ago but has decided to sell it to expand his collection. It will be on view top the public in Hong Kong and London before being offered at auction at Christie's in New York on May 13, where the auctioneers expect a bidding war. Frieder Burda said: 'The decision to part with a work from my collection has been very carefully considered and hasn't been easy for someone like myself who has a very personal relationship with all works of the collection. 'No. 36 (Black Stripe) by Mark Rothko is an exceptional work, a solitaire within the collection from which it is hard to separate.' Brett Gorvy from Christie's said: 'Painted in 1958, this vibrant, powerful and deeply emotive painting was created during Mark Rothko's most influential and acclaimed period. 'Here the artist has arrived at a new structural language of color that was to define his most famous body of works, The Seagram Murals, painted at the same time and which today constitute the celebrated Rothko Room at the Tate Modern, London. 'No. 36 (Black Stripe) is the quintessential Rothko - orange, black and red - passion and blood. This 1961 Rothko, entitled Orange, Red, Yellow, sold for almost £58million when it was auctioned at Christie's in New York in 2012, setting a new record for the artist's work . This Rothko painting is entitled Mural No. 4 and formed part of the artist's famous Seagram Murals set . 'This is the first time that the painting has been on the market for thirty years and we are sure to see a bidding war at the auction in May for this extremely rare and universally enticing work, especially with such a prestigious

Summary: Painting No. 36 (Black Stripe) has been in private collection for 30 years . Rare and highly prized artwork is due to come up for auction in May . Auctioneers are expecting a bidding war to drive the price to £35million .


A top Department of Homeland Security official improperly used his influence to help Tony Rodham – Hillary Clinton's youngest brother – with visas for his company's foreign investors, according to a new inspector general report. Investigators said Alejandro Mayorkas helped efforts to secure the visas in ways that created the appearance of favoritism and special access. He also helped Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe's green-car venture in 'unprecedented' fashion, according to the inspector general, and a casino company whose success was a pet project of then-Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid. Mayorkas was at the time in charge of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Mrs. Clinton's latest 'brother eruption' could complicate her quest for the White House. Hillary Clinton's brother, Tony Rodham (left) benefited from the improper influence of a top Homeland Security official who intervened to help his clients get special visas for their overseas investors, according to a new inspector general report . Alejandro Mayorkas, now the no. 2 official at Homeland Security, headed U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services when Rodham approached him for 'unprecedented' help . 'Brother eruption': Hillary's older brother Hugh (right) made unwelcome news at the end of President Bill Clinton's tenure by successfully lobbying him to commute the federal drug-dealing prison sentence of a Democratic Party donor's son. TROUBLE: Hillary Rodham Clinton is poised for a presidential run and her brothers' histories could come back to haunt her . When she was first lady, a series of embarrassing episodes including both Tony and Hugh Rodham led White House staffers to refer to them with an eye-roll as 'the brothers Rodham.' Hillary's older brother Hugh made unwelcome news at the end of President Bill Clinton's tenure by successfully lobbying him to commute the federal drug-dealing prison sentence of a Democratic Party donor's son. Hugh had been paid $400,000 by the donor to lobby for that outcome. He later returned the money as a scandal grew. At the time, Mayorkas – already a Rodham friend – intervened and spoke to the White House about the request, something he conceded during his 2009 Senate confirmation hearing was a mistake. Hillary, then a freshman U.S. senator from New York, distanced herself from her brother in a press conference. 'I did not know my brother was involved in any way in any of this,' she said at the time. 'I did not have any involvement in the pardons that were granted or not granted, and I'm just very disappointed about my brother's involvement.' Separately, Tony Rodham had his own brush with presidential pardon embarrassment, successfully pressing President Clinton to pardon a Tennessee couple convicted of bank fraud. Clinton overruled objections from the Justice Department in granting that request. Tony Rodham claimed he received no money in exchange for his access to the Oval Office, but the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee later found that he was paid as a consultant. More recently, a book due out in May describes a scheme involving an alleged sweetheart deal Tony Rodham benefited from in Haiti. He was a board member of a North Carolina mining

Summary: Tony Rodham used influence from Alejandro Mayorkas, then the head of US Citizenship and Immigration Services . Mayorkas intervened in visa applications filed by investors in companies run by Rodham's clients, Homeland Security investigators found . Latest 'brother eruption' could complicate Hillary Clinton's presidential ambitions . Tony and Hugh Rodham were involved in scandals involving criminal pardons that they lobbied for – on behalf of their clients – during Bill Clinton's presidency . The White House gave a full-throated defense of Mayorkas on Wednesday, describing him as a 'decorated public servant' out to make needed reforms .


He knew he was in jail, but he didn't know why. Eventually, Abreham Zemedagegehu learned that he'd been accused of stealing an iPad — an iPad whose owner later found it. He spent the next six weeks in jail, unable to communicate with his jailers because he is deaf. He described a frightening, isolated experience in which medical procedures were performed without his consent and he feared for his safety. Zemedagegehu sued the Arlington County sheriff last month in federal court, saying his treatment failed to meet the standards of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Suing: A U.S. citizen who was born in Ethiopia, Abreham Zemedagegehu learned that he'd been accused of stealing an iPad--an iPad whose owner later found it . 'I felt like I was losing my mind,' Zemedagegehu said through an interpreter in an interview at his lawyer's office. 'I thought Virginia would give me an interpreter and they said no. That's why I felt lost.' Zemedagegehu, who is homeless, is a U.S. citizen who was born in Ethiopia. He grew up using Ethiopian Sign Language. He has learned American Sign Language, but he has never learned more than rudimentary written English. Maj. Susie Doyel, a spokeswoman for the sheriff's office, which runs the jail, declined to comment on the specific allegations. She generally defended the jail's ability to handle deaf inmates and others with disabilities, and said several deputies in the jail are proficient in sign language. But she also acknowledged that communication with a deaf inmate is more problematic in cases where the inmate can't communicate in written English. In court papers filed Monday, lawyers for the sheriff ask a judge to dismiss the case, arguing that even if Zemedagegehu's allegations are true, they fail to show intentional discrimination because they attempted various different ways to communicate with him, including handwritten notes. And even if the discrimination were intentional, the lawyers write that it would not violate federal law because there is a rational basis for the discrimination: 'it takes extra resources and creates additional security considerations to bring in an ASL interpreter,' they write. Zemedagegehu's ordeal began Feb. 2, 2014, as he sought a warm place to sleep at Reagan National Airport. According to Zemedagegehu's lawsuit, officers from the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority arrested him on a complaint that he had stolen another man's iPad. Jailed: He spent the next six weeks in jail, unable to communicate with his jailers because he is deaf. He described a frightening, isolated experience in which medical procedures were performed without his consent and he feared for . Zemedagegehu says he requested an ASL interpreter to explain what was happening, but instead was taken to the Arlington jail for processing. He said the booking process was bewildering, with someone speaking on a video screen and he not understanding what was happening. After he was booked, he underwent a medical screening, and says he was given forms to sign. He didn't know what they were, and refused to sign them. He says they stuck a needle in his arm without explaining

Summary: Abreham Zemedagegehu was jailed in Arlington County, Virginia in February 2014 and accused of stealing a man's iPad . He says jailers failed to meet Americans with Disabilities Act standards by refusing to provide him with an interpreter . The man who accused Zemedagegehu of stealing his iPad soon found it .