The day after the Salt Lake County district attorney declined to file charges against reality television stars Taylor Frankie Paul or Dakota Mortensen, police released body camera video, photos and audio of the investigation into one of the alleged domestic assault incidents.

The Draper Police Department and West Jordan Police Department recently investigated new claims of assault made by both Frankie Paul and Mortensen.

Photos released Thursday by the Draper Police Department showed Mortensen with a bloody nose, as well as scrapes and bruises on his body that were suffered during the February 23 incident. Additional photos showed Frankie Paul's forehead, although the exact injury could not be determined.

Draper police said "after a thorough investigation" with the city prosecutor, it determined that there was "insufficient corroborating evidence to support filing criminal charges against either party, as the City must prove the allegations beyond a reasonable doubt."

In the body camera video, a Draper police officer is seen speaking with Mortensen, who is holding his young son, on March 19, over three weeks after the alleged assault.

The two speak outside of a pickup truck where that incident occurred, with Mortensen showing the officer the inside of the vehicle, while explaining how Frankie Paul was allegedly "kicking with her... feet, like extremely hard."

"It's actually, I had no idea how that thing didn't break," Mortensen told the officer.

Mortensen claimed Frankie Paul was kicking the rear-view mirror and punching a console screen.

The officer checked out the inside of the pickup truck before Mortensen said all the scratches that he allegedly suffered during the incident had healed. He then said his biggest concern was his son, and said that he had filed a protective order against Frankie Paul.

Late last month, a judge issued a protective order prohibiting Frankie Paul from having any contact with Mortensen until an April 30 court hearing.

"If she's in a really bad place, I don't, I don't actually feel safe at all with that," said Mortensen.

In an undated audio call, Frankie Paul is heard speaking with an officer, who says his main concern is that she is doing OK.

"I guess if you've gotten a report from [Mortensen], you're checking if I'm okay, which I know his story is not accurate," said Frankie Paul. "So I guess that kind of confuses me, that's all."

The officer tells Frankie Paul to cut off all communication with Mortensen.

"Sorry, I'm just a little confused," said Frankie Paul. "So [Mortensen] called and told [you about] injuries that I have?"

"He mentioned that there was a possible injury, and our concern was to make sure that you were okay," the officer replied.

"There was a possible injury," asked Frankie Paul. "How does that make sense?"

The officer answered that he was simply calling to verify that Frankie Paul was in good health. The call ended shortly thereafter.

In letters to both the Draper and West Jordan police departments on Wednesday, Salt Lake County District Attorney Sim Gill said Tuesday that his office has declined to file charges against Paul, partially due to some of the alleged incidents having occurred outside the statute of limitations.

Frankie Paul stars in the reality television series "The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives," although production on its fifth season was paused due to the allegations made by both her and Mortensen.

Days before Frankie Paul's season of "The Bachelorette" was set to begin, ABC pulled the plug when video was released showing her throwing a chair at Mortensen multiple times during a previous incident, and reportedly injuring her young daughter.

This story was originally published by Jeff Tavss at the Scripps News Group station in Salt Lake City.

Landen Roupp allowed one hit in six innings and Matt Chapman had an RBI double to spark a three-run rally in the seventh and help the San Francisco Giants beat the Cincinnati Reds 3-0 on Thursday.

Roupp (3-1) didnt allow a hit until No. 9 batter P.J. Higgins led off the sixth with a single. That ended up being the Reds only hit of the day.

Roupp hit TJ Friedl with a pitch, but Matt McLain struck out and Elly De La Cruz grounded into a double play to end the threat. Roupp walked two, struck out six and left after 87 pitches.

Ryan Walker pitched the seventh and Keaton Winn struck out two in the eighth. Erik Miller struck out the side in the ninth for his first career save.

The Giants rallied when Luis Arraez reached on an error by De La Cruz at short leading off the seventh against reliever Brock Burke (1-1). Arraez scored from first on Chapman's two-out double off the wall in left-center field. Jung Hoo Lee followed with an RBI single. Connor Phillips entered and walked Heliot Ramos before Casey Schmitt singled in a third unearned run.

Reds rookie Chase Burns allowed two hits and a walk, but still faced the minimum through six scoreless innings. He struck out four and left after throwing 87 pitches.

Phillips was ejected in the eighth for intentionally hitting Willy Adames with a pitch after Roupp plunked Spencer Steer in the second.

In the ninth, benches cleared after Giants reliever Erik Miller struck out Sal Stewart to end the game.

The win snapped a four-game skid and helped the Giants avoid a three-game sweep.

Giants RHP Logan Webb (1-2, 5.25) starts Friday's opener of a three-game series in Washington opposite Nationals RHP Zack Littell (0-1, 4.20).

Reds LHP Brandon Williamson (1-1, 5.28) starts Friday's opener of a three-game series in Minnesota opposite Twins RHP Joe Ryan (2-1, 3.80).

Despite an ongoing ceasefire between the United States and Iran, the Iranian regime continues to threaten to execute dissidents.

Two non-government organizations report Tehran executed over 1,600 people in 2025, a 68% increase from the previous year. The organizations say the actual numbers are likely much higher because Iranian authorities do not publicly announce all executions carried out. This increase also occurred before major protests against the regime spread across the country earlier this year leading to even more executions.

RELATED STORY | Family of Iranian prisoner spared from execution fears what comes next

The first female protester, Bitta Hamadi, is set to be sentenced to death. She was recently tried alongside her husband and two others who face the same fate. Human rights groups say the charges are based on forced confessions obtained under torture.

In the last month, Iran executed nearly a dozen men, including one teenager, who were sentenced just weeks after their arrests. The author of the report detailing these executions was recently arrested at her home. Her whereabouts and fate remain unknown.

Meanwhile, the condition of Nobel Peace Prize winner Narjaz Mohammadi continues to deteriorate inside an Iranian prison. Her foundation previously announced she had suffered beatings. Based on two in-person visits in March and April, the foundation says her situation is now critical. They report she had a heart attack in late March, has lost significant weight, and has experienced many other health issues since her arrest. The foundation is calling on human rights groups and the United Nations to intervene.

RELATED STORY | Trump announces Lebanon-Israel ceasefire, opening door for U.S.-Iran talks

U.S. President Donald Trump has said executions of Iranian citizens is one of his so-called red lines as peace negotiations continue. The United States and Iran agreed to a fragile two-week cease-fire last week, which led to direct talks in Pakistan last Saturday. Those meetings ended without a peace agreement, and the two sides have not met since.

Different year, same draft priorities for the Cincinnati Bengals.

Director of player personnel Duke Tobin, coach Zac Taylor and their staffs will continue to look at ways to upgrade a defense that was 31st in the league last season, including last against the run and tied for 22nd in sacks.

The only area the defense excelled in during Al Golden's first year as coordinator was missed tackles. Their 171 missed tackles was the most by any team since the statistic was first tracked in 2007.

The Bengals signed edge rusher Boye Mafe, safety Bryan Cook and defensive tackle Jonathan Allen at the start of free agency, but need to start hitting on some of their draft picks.

You always have to be flexible in terms of the positions. The draft is a big chance for us to really hit on guys that can be long-term contributors for us, Tobin said during the NFL scouting combine in February.

The Bengals have eight picks, including the 10th overall selection in the first round. They dont have any in the fifth round but two each in the sixth and seventh rounds.

Pass rushers, linebacker and cornerback. The Bengals got a preview of life without Trey Hendrickson last season after he played in only seven games and had four sacks. Mafe has potential as a pass rusher, but had only two sacks last season, and Shemar Stewart, last year's first-round pick, had a disappointing rookie season because of injuries. Miami's Rueben Bain would be a perfect option if he was available. The linebacker group is young after rookies Demetrius Knight Jr. (second round) and Barrett Carter (fourth round) were pressed into duty last season. Ohio State's Sonny Styles continues to ascend up draft boards. With Dax Hill and DJ Turner in the final year of their contracts, Golden could use a young cornerback, especially one that excels at covering slot receivers. LSU's Mansoor Delane would be a nice fit.

While defense is at the top of the priorities list, the Bengals will also be on the hunt for help on the offensive line. The primary need is for a swing tackle that can help bolster a unit that was near the bottom in pass block win rate last season according to metrics by Pro Football Focus and ESPN.

Don't be surprised if the Bengals look for a wide receiver, especially if Ohio State's Carnell Tate drops to the 10th pick. Even though the Bengals have one of the top two receiver duos in the league with Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, the group is thin after that. They are also lacking a slot receiver that could help take pressure off Chase and Higgins late in games.

A quarterback. The Bengals are one of the top teams in the league when Joe Burrow is on the field, but with three major injuries in six seasons including a toe injury that caused him to miss nine games last season keeping him healthy continues to be a concern. Joe Flacco did re-sign to be Burrow's backup after he was acquired from Cleveland.

Ben Cohen, co-founder of Ben & Jerrys, repeated statements similar to those made by Jerry Greenfield, who left the business in September after claiming the ice cream brand has been silenced by its parent company, Magnum.

Cohens comments to The Washington Post come after Magnum was spun off into its own company by Unilever in 2025. Cohen said Ben & Jerrys has a social mission to fulfill and that Magnum should sell the brand.

Cohen accused Magnum of destroying the heart and the soul of Ben & Jerrys.

RELATED STORY | Ben & Jerrys cofounder resigns, says brand silenced by parent company

Theyre trying to neuter the social mission, he added.

Cohen's comments came on Free Cone Day, which he renamed "Free The Cone Day," in hopes of encouraging a new buyer for the company.

Ben & Jerrys says it has progressive values and supports human rights and dignity; social and economic justice; and environmental protection, restoration and regeneration. The company has said it openly supports LGBTQ+ rights, campaign finance reform, racial justice and fair trade.

In September 2025, Greenfield claimed that Unilever, which then owned Magnum before spinning it off, had not allowed him to continue the companys social mission.

RELATED STORY | Ben & Jerry's unveils new Kamala Harris-inspired ice cream flavor

For more than twenty years under their ownership, Ben & Jerrys stood up and spoke out in support of peace, justice, and human rights not as abstract concepts, but in relation to real events happening in our world, Greenfield wrote.

Even under a new parent company, Cohen said, things have not improved.

The company has been about social justice, about using its power to improve the quality of life for people in our communities, about standing up to injustices, Cohen told The Washington Post.

Cohen said Magnum prevented Ben & Jerrys from posting about Black History Month. He said the company also wanted to post a statement calling for a cease-fire in the conflict in Gaza, but the request was rejected.

Jerry and I have come to the conclusion that the only solution is for the Magnum Corporation to sell Ben & Jerrys to a group of socially aligned investors that actually believes in and agrees with and supports the social mission, Cohen said.

Unilever acquired Ben & Jerrys in 2000. As part of the merger agreement, the brand would continue its social advocacy.

Unilever held rights to the company until last year, when it spun off the business. Months prior to the demerger, Greenfield resigned.

Cohen no longer retains control of Ben & Jerrys but remains an employee.

Democrats are out-raising Republicans in some crucial races as they try to win control in the U.S. Senate in November.

In Texas, Democrat James Talarico raised $27 million in the first quarter, while Republicans have yet to settle on a general election candidate. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and Sen. John Cornyn are set to face off in a May runoff.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT | Trump says midterm elections will require voter ID under new executive order

In Georgia, Sen. Jon Ossoff is seeking reelection and has raised $14 million. Republicans will hold a primary in May, with a potential runoff in June.

In North Carolina, Democrat Roy Cooper has brought in $13.8 million, outpacing Republican Michael Whatley, who has raised about $5 million.

In Ohio, Democrat Sherrod Brown reported $12.5 million in fundraising, compared with $2.9 million for his opponent, Sen. Jon Husted.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT | Congressional Democrats sue to block Trumps new mail voting restrictions

The early fundraising advantage suggests momentum for Democrats, but

National Republican groups will likely step in to bolster candidates who may lag behind in fundraising.

Republicans currently hold a 5347 majority in the Senate. Democrats would need to flip at least four seats in November to win control of the chamber.

Newports Mansion Hill Bridal is closing after seven years in business.

The bridal shop announced its closure via Instagram, stating that the decision comes as the owner steps into a new season of life, focusing on growing her family and being home with her kids.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for seven incredible years of love stories, memories and unforgettable moments, The store said in its Instagram post. It has been the greatest honor to be part of your journey.

Brides who have an open order should have already been contacted, according to the Instagram post. It states that all orders will be fulfilled as planned. Because of long lead times, the company said that it is beginning the process now and anticipates fully wrapping up in late fall once all orders have been received.

The store is now clearing out all remaining inventory, including wedding dresses, veils and accessories, which are all 5075% off while supplies last.

Brides with upcoming appointments have been moved to off-the-rack and in-stock inventory only, and the store is no longer taking new special orders.

A post shared by Mansion Hill Bridal (@mansionhillbridal)

LINK nky is a media partner of WCPO.com.

A nationwide warrant has been issued for an Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent accused of pointing his duty weapon at two people while driving on a Minnesota highway.

Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty announced Thursday that Gregory Donnell Morgan Jr. is charged with two counts of second-degree assault.

Prosecutors say the incident happened Feb. 5 on eastbound Highway 62 in the Twin Cities during rush hour traffic.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT | Minnesota sues Trump administration over shootings during immigration crackdown

According to authorities, Morgan was driving a rented, unmarked SUV on the shoulder in an apparent attempt to bypass congestion. A police report says that's when a driver briefly moved into the shoulder to slow him down before returning to the lane.

Prosecutors say Morgan then pulled alongside the vehicle, rolled down his window and pointed a handgun at the driver and a passenger. Both later told investigators they feared for their safety.

Investigators later identified Morgan through the vehicles license plate and arranged to speak with him. He told authorities he was an ICE agent assigned to the Minneapolis area and had been returning to a federal facility at the end of his shift.

Morgan said he displayed the weapon and yelled, Police, stop, because he feared for his safety. Authorities say he acknowledged he was not responding to an emergency or conducting an active law enforcement operation at the time.

RELATED STORY | Civil rights investigation opened into killing of Alex Pretti

The incident occurred during Operation Metro Surge, a federal immigration enforcement effort that drew significant backlash, including after the deaths of U.S. citizens Renee Good and Alex Pretti during encounters with federal agents.

Todays charges reflect an important milestone in our efforts to seek accountability for the harms inflicted on community. I drew daily inspiration from the care Minnesotans showed for each other during Metro Surge, Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty said.

A man who served in the U.S. Navy after immigrating from Britain has been charged in a string of deadly attacks in the Atlanta suburbs that quickly drew the attention of President Donald Trump's administration.

U.K.-native Olaolukitan Adon Abel, whose name appears in different variations in court and government records, is accused of killing two women, including a Department of Homeland Security employee, and critically injuring a man.

Homeland Secretary Markwayne Mullin called the shootings "acts of pure evil" and raised concern that Adon Abel, 26, was granted U.S. citizenship in 2022, when Democrat Joe Biden was president.

Here's what is known about the rampage.

Three early morning attacks, miles apart

The attacks rattled the Atlanta suburbs of Decatur, Brookhaven and Panthersville in the early morning hours Monday.

The first victim, 31-year-old Prianna Weathers, was found with gunshot wounds near a Decatur-area restaurant around 1 a.m. She was taken to a hospital but died, DeKalb County Police Chief Gregory Padrick said.

Then, around 2 a.m., a 49-year-old man experiencing homelessness was shot multiple times while sleeping outside a grocery store in Brookhaven, about 12 miles (19 kilometers) northwest of the first attack, Brookhaven Police Chief Brandon Gurley said. The man, whose name hasn't been released, remains hospitalized in critical condition.

DHS worker Lauren Bullis, who was out walking her dog more than 10 miles (16 kilometers) away in Panthersville, was found around 7 a.m. with gunshot and stab wounds. She died at the scene, Padrick said.

Investigators in Brookhaven determined that the three attacks were connected, Gurley said.

Authorities have said they believe at least one victim was targeted at random.

WATCH | Principal takes on gunman inside school and stops attack

DHS employee remembered for her generosity

Bullis, 40, served in multiple roles at DHS Office of Inspector General, including as an auditor and an innovation team leader. DHS posted on social media that she brought "a genuine sense of care to her colleagues each day."

Her family said in a statement that she loved running, reading and traveling, and "her warmth and generosity touched everyone surrounding her."

Fellow DHS auditor Ashley Toillion of Denver described Bullis as "the nicest, sweetest, most encouraging person I've ever met."

ICYMI | Florida doctor faces manslaughter charge for allegedly removing wrong organ during surgery

Suspect pleaded guilty in California assault

Military records show the defendant enlisted in the Navy in 2020, last serving in the Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron in Coronado, California, and as a petty officer received a Navy "E" Ribbon for superior performance for battle readiness.

Adon Abel pleaded guilty in October 2024 to assaulting two police officers with a deadly weapon and attacking another person when he was stationed in Coronado, according to California court records.

He faces malice murder, aggravated assault and firearms charges in Monday's attacks, court records show. He waived an initial court appearance Tuesday, and a public defender listed as his attorney did not immediately respond to an email seeking comment.

Mullin said Adon Abel has a criminal record that includes a sexual battery conviction. Online court records show that someone listed with a similar name and the same birth date pleaded guilty last June in Chatham County, Georgia, to four misdemeanor counts of sexual battery.

It wasn't immediately clear if Adon Abel had a criminal record that predated him becoming a U.S. citizen in 2022. The U.S. has long barred people convicted of most violent crimes from attaining citizenship.

President Donald Trump announced Thursday that Lebanon and Israel will begin a 10-day ceasefire, a move seen as an important step toward easing hostilities linked to tensions between the United States and Iran.

The ceasefire is expected to start Thursday evening, Trump said.

Trump said the agreement followed conversations he had with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun. The violence between Lebanon and Israel has been viewed as a proxy conflict, with the United States maintaining its strong alliance with Israel while militants in Lebanon align with Iran.

RELATED STORY | US hosts rare talks between Israel and Lebanon, but a ceasefire remains elusive

I just had excellent conversations with the Highly Respected President Joseph Aoun, of Lebanon, and Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu, of Israel. These two Leaders have agreed that in order to achieve PEACE between their Countries, they will formally begin a 10 Day CEASEFIRE at 5 P.M. EST, Trump wrote on Truth Social.

Lebanon confirmed its agreement to the ceasefire, but had said Aoun would not speak directly with Netanyahu.

"I welcome the announcement of the ceasefire declared by President Trump, which is a central Lebanese demand we have pursued since the first day of the war, and was our primary goal in the Washington meeting on Tuesday," Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam wrote on X.

RELATED STORY | Top diplomats from Israel and Lebanon meet for peace talks

Netanyahu also confirmed that Israel would agree to the temporary ceasefire.

Trump said he has invited Netanyahu and Aoun to the White House for direct talks, but it's unclear whether the two sides have agreed to the meeting.

President Donald Trump suggested that the U.S. and Iran could resume in-person negotiations as early as this weekend. Iran has signaled that a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon is key to resuming talks with the U.S.

The United States and Iran agreed to a fragile two-week cease-fire last week, which led to direct talks in Pakistan last Saturday. Those meetings ended without any peace agreement, and the two sides have not met since.

A key U.S. objective has been getting Iran to halt its nuclear program.

Europe has maybe six weeks or so of remaining jet fuel supplies, the head of the International Energy Agency said Thursday in a wide-ranging interview, warning of possible flight cancellations soon if oil supplies remain blocked by the Iran war.

IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol painted a sobering picture of the global repercussions of what he called the largest energy crisis we have ever faced, stemming from the pinch-off of oil, gas and other vital supplies through the Strait of Hormuz.

In the past there was a group called Dire Straits. Its a dire strait now, and it is going to have major implications for the global economy. And the longer it goes, the worse it will be for the economic growth and inflation around the world, he told The Associated Press.

The impact will be higher petrol (gasoline) prices, higher gas prices, high electricity prices, said Birol, speaking in his Paris office looking out over the Eiffel Tower.

RELATED STORY | Senate blocks war powers resolution on Iran for fourth time

Economic pain will be felt unevenly and the countries who will suffer the most will not be those whose voice are heard a lot. It will be mainly the developing countries. Poorer countries in Asia, in Africa and in Latin America, said the Turkish economist and energy expert who has led the IEA since 2015.

But without a settlement of the Iran war that permanently reopens the Strait of Hormuz, Everybody is going to suffer, he added.

Some countries may be richer than the others. Some countries may have more energy than the others, but no country, no country is immune to this crisis, he said.

'Slow growth or even recession'

Nearly 20% of the worlds traded oil passes through the Strait of Hormuz in peacetime. Birol warned that not reopening the waterway within weeks could compound the repercussions for global energy supplies.

In Europe, we have maybe six weeks or so (of) jet fuel left, he said. If we are not able to open the Strait of Hormuz ... I can tell you soon we will hear the news that some of the flights from city A to city B might be canceled as a result of lack of jet fuel.

He added: Many government leaders tell me that if Hormuz is not open until (the) end of May, many countries starting from the weaker economies are going to face huge challenges, and this will go from the high inflation numbers to coming close to slow growth or even to recession in some cases.

Birol spoke out against the so-called toll booth system that Iran has applied to some ships, letting them travel through the strait for a fee. He said allowing that to become more permanent would run the risk of setting a precedent that could then be applied to other waterways, including the vital Malacca Strait in Asia.

If we change it once, it may be difficult to get it back, he said. It will be difficult to have a toll system here, applied here, but not there.

I would like to see that the oil flows unconditionally from the point A to point B, he said.

Damage for Persian Gulf energy facilities

More than 110 oil-laden tankers and over 15 carriers loaded with liquefied natural gas are waiting in the Persian Gulf and could help ease the energy crisis if they could escape through the Strait of Hormuz to world markets, Birol said, adding: But it is not enough.

RELATED STORY | US says Iranian port blockade is working as peace talks continue

Even with a peace deal, war-damage to energy facilities means it could be many months before pre-conflict levels of production are restored, he said.

Over 80 key assets in the region have been damaged. And out of these 80, more than one third are severely or very severely damaged, he said.

It will be extremely optimistic to believe that it will very quick, Birol said. It will take gradually, gradually, up to two years to come back where we were before the war.

Carnival Cruise Line must pay $300,000 to a former passenger after a federal jury in South Florida found that the company was negligent in serving the woman more than a dozen shots of tequila before she fell down some stairs and suffered a possible traumatic brain injury.

The Miami federal jury decided last Friday in favor of Diana Sanders, a 45-year-old nurse from Vacaville, California.

"Taking on a corporate giant like Carnival is a massive undertaking, and I have enormous respect for my client's resilience throughout this 18-month litigation," Sanders' attorney Spencer Aronfeld said in an email. "This case highlights the inherent dangers of all-inclusive drink packages, which encourage excessive consumption and pressure underpaid servers to prioritize tips over safety."

A statement from Carnival Corporation said it respectfully disagrees with the verdict and believes there are grounds for a new trial and appeal, which it will pursue.

According to the lawsuit, Sanders was a passenger aboard the Carnival Radiance on Jan. 5, 2024, when was served at least 14 shots between approximately 2:58 p.m. and 11:37 p.m. She experienced a fall some time between 11:45 p.m. and 12:20 a.m. that caused her to suffer a concussion, headaches, a possible traumatic brain injury, back injuries, tailbone injuries, bruising and other injuries, the complaint said.

Aronfeld said jurors were presented with evidence of 30 minutes of missing surveillance video from the time Sanders left the Casino bar until she was found unconscious in a crew only area.

In a separate case that is still ongoing, the fiance of a man who died on a cruise ship filed a wrongful death lawsuit last year against Royal Caribbean, alleging it negligently served him at least 33 alcoholic drinks and was liable for his death after crew members tackled him to the ground and stood on him with their full body weight.

New Gallup polling shows a sudden rise in religiosity among young men, who are now far more likely than young women to say religion is an important part of their lives.

Data released Tuesday, compiled in 2024 and 2025, found that 42% of men ages 18 to 29 say religion is a very important part of their lives up from 28% in the previous poll and the highest level since 200001.

By comparison, 29% of women ages 18 to 29 say religion is very important, tying a record low for the survey.

RELATED STORY | Easter message from USDA secretary called pro-Christian sermon in complaint

More broadly, Gallups polling shows women overall have moved away from religion faster than men. Two decades ago, nearly 80% of women age 65 and older rated religion as very important; in 202425, that dropped to 64%. Among women ages 50 to 64, that number fell from 71% in 2000 to 53% more recently.

The poll shows older men are less likely to be religious than they were decades ago, while middleaged mens views have remained about the same.

Historically, Gallup has found men less religious than women in every age group. This is the first time a male age group ranks higher in religiosity than the same female age group.

RELATED STORY | Pope Leo XIV rejects claims that God justifies war in Palm Sunday Mass message

Higher religiosity among young men has also led to greater attendance at religious services. The poll found that 40% of men ages 18 to 29 attend services, up from 33% previously and now surpassing attendance among men ages 30 to 49.

Gallup also reported a sharp partisan divide. Twentysix percent of Democratic men attend services, compared with 52% of Republican men. Republican women are about twice as likely to attend services as Democratic women.

Gallup said it is unclear whether this reflects a longterm trend or a temporary shift, adding that more years of polling will be needed to determine if the change persists.

The religiosity of Americans as a whole remains at a low ebb, with the importance of religion, selfreported attendance and identification with a religion all at or near the lowest levels in Gallups longterm trends, Gallup said. Yet young men appear to be an emerging exception to the rule.

Justice Sonia Sotomayor issued a highly unusual public apology to a colleague Wednesday, saying her criticism of Justice Brett Kavanaugh for his writing in an earlier immigration case was unfair.

At a recent appearance at the University of Kansas School of Law, I referred to a disagreement with one of my colleagues in a prior case, but I made remarks that were inappropriate, Sotomayor said in a statement. I regret my hurtful comments. I have apologized to my colleague.

Sotomayors statement followed remarks she made last week in Kansas in which she criticized Kavanaugh for his concurring opinion in a high-profile emergency immigration case dealing with ICE patrols an exceedingly rare and personal comment directed at one justice by another.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT | Supreme Court considers letting Trump administration revive restrictive immigration asylum policy

Justices, particularly those who wind up dissenting, often snip at how their colleagues on the other side of an opinion frame an issue. But both conservative and liberal justices including Sotomayor also regularly discuss the comity on the court and how the nine justices get along personally even as they vehemently disagree in many high-profile cases.

That is what made the tone of Sotomayors remarks surprising.

I had a colleague in that case who wrote, you know, these are only temporary stops, Sotomayor said, according to a Bloomberg report. This is from a man whose parents were professionals. And probably doesnt really know any person who works by the hour.

CNN had reached out to Sotomayor and Kavanaugh for comment after the event. Kavanaugh did not immediately respond to a follow-up request for comment about Sotomayors apology on Wednesday.

Sotomayor, the courts senior liberal, was speaking last week about an opinion in early September in which the court backed President Donald Trumps push to allow immigration enforcement officials to continue whatcritics describe as roving patrolsin Southern California that lower courts said likely violated the Fourth Amendment.

RELATED STORY | Supreme Court justices appear skeptical of Trump birthright citizenship order

The courts majority did not offer an explanation for its decision in that case, which came over a sharp dissent from the three liberal justices.

But Kavanaugh, a member of the conservative wing who sided with Trump, wrote in a concurrence to explain his thinking. He said the factors the agents were considering taken together can constitute at least reasonable suspicion of illegal presence in the United States. Those factors could include a persons apparent ethnicity, language or their presence at a particular location, such as a farm or a bus stop.

To be clear, apparent ethnicity alone cannot furnish reasonable suspicion; under this courts case law regarding immigration stops, however, it can be a relevant factor when considered along with other salient factors, Kavanaugh wrote.

Importantly, Kavanaugh added, reasonable suspicion means only that immigration officers may briefly stop the individual and inquire about immigration status.

Liberal groups have zeroed in on Kavanaughs concurrence and have dubbed the immigration encounters at issue in the case as Kavanaugh stops. Immigrant advocacy groups have said the stops are often far lengthier and more intrusive than the justice made them seem in his opinion.

Fairfax County Police Chief Kevin Davis said Thursday that both were found dead at their home by law enforcement after the couples teenage son called 911 shortly after midnight.

Davis described the killing as tragic in nature for what had been a high-profile family.

The police chief said the murder occurred in a partially finished basement, where Justin shot his wife several times before running upstairs to the primary bedroom and killing himself with the same firearm.

The couples two teenage children were inside the home at the time and unharmed, but Davis called the incident extra tragic because they witnessed the violence.

The couple had been engaged in divorce proceedings, and Justin was recently served court paperwork for an upcoming hearing.

In January, Justin called police to report that his wife had assaulted him, but Davis said multiple cameras installed inside the house by Cerina captured the encounter and showed the alleged assault did not occur. No arrests were made.

Davis said victim services staff are working closely with surviving relatives to support the children.

Tragic for the children to lose both parents, extra tragic for them to actually be in the home when it occurred, Davis said.

Justin, once regarded as a rising political star in Virginia and a Democratic candidate for governor, served as lieutenant governor from 2018 to 2022.

This story was originally published by the Scripps News Group station in Richmond, Virginia.

U.S. military leaders said Thursday the ongoing blockade of Iranian ports is working.

Earlier this week, the Pentagon announced the United States would block all ships from entering or leaving Iranian ports. The move is intended to pressure Iran into reaching an agreement with Washington.

RELATED STORY | Trump threatens to strike Iran's infrastructure if Strait of Hormuz isn't reopened

While the U.S. has declared military success over Iran, the countrys control of the Strait of Hormuz remains a sticking point. The strait, a major passage for oil tankers, has seen closures that caused oil prices to rise.

Let me be clear this blockade applies to all ships, regardless of nationality, heading into or from Iranian ports, Gen. Dan Caine said. Enforcement will occur inside Irans territorial seas and in international waters.

U.S. military operations have eliminated the Iranian navy, said Pete Hegseth, who has been involved in the strategic communications effort.

RELATED STORY | How the Iran war is choking critical aid distribution around the world

The math is clear. Were using 10 percent of the worlds most powerful navy, and you have zero percent of your navy, Hegseth said.

Officials said at least nine ships have complied with U.S. orders to turn around since the blockade began earlier this week.

According to a source familiar with the discussions, the United States has outlined a series of red lines for any agreement. Those conditions include ending all uranium enrichment, dismantling key nuclear facilities, surrendering its stockpile of highly enriched uranium, agreeing to a broader regional de-escalation framework, ceasing funding for proxy groups and fully reopening the Strait of Hormuz without imposing tolls.

Russia hammered civilian areas of Ukraine with hundreds of drones and dozens of missiles in an attack that stretched for hours from daytime into the night, killing at least 16 people and injuring more than 80 others as terrified residents cowered in their homes, officials said Thursday.

Russia launched nearly 700 drones and dozens of ballistic and cruise missiles, primarily targeting civilians, in its biggest aerial barrage in almost two weeks, authorities said.

Tetiana Sokol, a 54-year-old resident of Kyiv, said two missiles hit near her home and she took cover with her dog in the hallway as flashes lit up the night and windows shattered from the blast wave.

RELATED STORY | Russia and China veto watered-down UN resolution aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz

On the third attack everything broke, everything flew, we were shocked, we didnt know where to run. I grabbed whatever came to hand and ran away with the dog, she told The Associated Press. I still cant find the cats in the house, they climbed out somewhere, I dont even know. No windows, nothing, the dog is still walking around in stress.

Moscow's forces have hit civilian areas almost daily since its all-out invasion of its neighbor more than four years ago, with the regular assaults occasionally punctuated by massive attacks. More than 15,000 Ukrainian civilians have died in the strikes, the United Nations says.

The latest bombardment came in the wake of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's 48-hour trip this week to Germany, Norway and Italy in an urgent search for more air defense systems that can stop Russian missiles.

Ukraine has developed a significant domestic arms industry, especially in the production of drones and missiles, but it cant yet match the sophistication of U.S. Patriot air defense systems. Ukraines top diplomatic priority is securing allies help to buy and build more and better air defenses, Zelenskyy said this week.

Cash-strapped Ukraine also needs the speedy disbursement of a promised loan from the European Union of 90 billion euros ($106 billion) that has been blocked by Hungary.

Ukraine fears the Iran war is burning through stockpiles of the advanced American-made systems it needs, and has argued against a U.S. temporary waiver on Russian oil sanctions that Kyiv says is helping finance the Kremlin's war effort.

Another night has proven that Russia does not deserve any easing of global policy or lifting of sanctions, Zelenskyy said on X.

He thanked Germany, Norway and Italy for new agreements this week on supporting Ukraine's air defense. Officials are also working with the Netherlands on additional supplies, he said.

At the same time, he noted that some partner countries haven't followed through on pledges of military support.

I have instructed the Commander of the Air Force to contact those partners who earlier committed to providing missiles for Patriot and other systems, Zelenskyy said.

The bombardment was the biggest in weeks. Last month, Russia fired 948 drones and 34 missiles in the space of 24 hours in the largest assault of the war on civilian areas.

At least four people were killed overnight in Kyiv, including a 12-year-old, with more than 50 others injured, according to authorities. Officials said the attack damaged 17 apartment buildings, 10 private homes, as well as a hotel, office center, car dealership, gas station and a shopping mall in the capital.

Nine people were killed and 23 injured in the southern port city of Odesa, three women were killed and around three dozen injured in the central Dnipro region, and one person was killed in Zaporizhzhia in the south.

RELATED STORY | Ukraine's ground robots now running 9,000 missions a month

Such attacks cannot be normalized. These are war crimes that must be stopped and their perpetrators held to account, Ukraines Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said on X.

Ukraines air force said air defenses shot down or disabled 667 out of 703 incoming targets, including 636 Shahed-type drones and other uncrewed aerial vehicles.

It said 20 strike drones and 12 missiles hit 26 locations.

Meanwhile, in Russia, Krasnodar regional Gov. Veniamin Kondratyev reported that a 14-year-old girl and a woman were killed in Ukrainian strikes in the Black Sea port of Tuapse.

He said that attacks damaged six apartment buildings, 24 private houses and three schools. Drone fragments also fell near the port of Tuapse.

Russias Defense Ministry said that its air defenses downed 207 Ukrainian drones overnight.

The U.S. labor market is showing signs of strain, but the health care industry is experiencing a hiring boom and carrying much of the load.

Recent data shows that while hiring across the board is cooling, health care workers are still very much in demand, and more Americans are answering the call to work in the field. The U.S. economy added 76,000 jobs in health care in March, accounting for 43 percent of all new jobs. Last year, the sector added nearly 700,000 jobs, helping balance an otherwise weak hiring market.

"It's a really tricky time if you don't work in health care," Heather Long said.

Long is the chief economist at Navy Federal Credit Union.

"Hiring for health care is in strong demand. It's number one on our hiring list consistently at Monster," Vicki Salemi said.

Salemi is a career expert at Monster. The surge in health care jobs is driven in part by a shortage in the field that was heightened by the pandemic.

RELATED STORY | March job gains outshine forecasts amid inflation pressures

"The pandemic just kind of heightened what we already have projected, which was the increasing in retirement of the nurses in the workforce," Donna Green said.

Green and Lindsay Davis are associate professors at the University of Cincinnatis College of Nursing. They say the field offers opportunities for growth.

"I think one of the most important things is that the new graduates understand that there are options out there, they can really find where they feel that they fit best," Davis said.

The pay is increasingly becoming a big draw, with the median pay for a registered nurse topping $93,000. The field is also viewed as safer from the impacts of artificial intelligence wiping out jobs.

"They're more AI-proof because you need to be in person to do these types of jobs, especially nursing and therapy. You need to in person with the customer, in this case, the patient," Salemi said.

RELATED STORY | Study reveals workers are burned out and not getting paid for taking on extra duties

The health care trade is expected to remain strong. The Labor Department projects that employment of health care workers will increase by eight percent from 2024 to 2034, compared to just three percent growth for all jobs.

Some employers are getting creative to find workers. In Virginia, one healthcare center hosted a March Madness-style "draft day" last month.

Marquita Gardner is a nursing student graduating soon who already has a position lined up. Gardner sees healthcare as a stable career choice and one that makes a difference.

"Im very excited," Gardner said.

"We need more people, we need more caring people, more compassionate people. If we just have that one person that takes that initiative it'll make a world change," Gardner said.

It's been a rough start to spring for those of us with allergies this year.

Unfortunately, data from Climate Central, a nonprofit that researches climate, shows that this is just part of our new normal.

Pollen counts have been high almost every day and the season started earlier this year thanks to warmer temperatures. That means plants began waking up earlier than usual.

According to Climate Central, the earlier spring weather comes with a longer growing season overall meaning more time to release pollen. The nonprofit says climate changes have contributed to earlier, longer and stronger allergy seasons.

Watch to get a look at the project to more accurately track pollen counts:

But even with allergies becoming more and more of an issue, the way we've tracked pollen and forecast it hasn't changed much over the years. Researchers from Duke University are now looking to change that.

Most of us who deal with allergies have heard of or seen the "pollen count" numbers online or on our phone. However, these numbers are generic and not specific to most people's area.

New technology from Duke University, coined the "R2D2 of the forest" is helping researchers get a more in-depth look at pollen and how it affects us.

Its sending lasers in every direction back and forth, Duke researcher Tate Commission said.

The lasers scan the dense forest and takes photos that build a high-definition 3D map. The mapping shows individual branches, leaves and the pollen-producing flowers responsible for that yellow haze on our windshields.

The smallest detail you can see from this machine, said researcher Ivy Geng, who says it essentially creates a digital twin of the forest.

While "R2D2" won't stop the pollen from falling, the hope is to revolutionize how we are able to predict when allergy season will start and how intense it might be.

The Greater Cincinnati area also faces unique challenges each allergy season, because of the geography of the area.

In March, we also spoke to Dr. Steffany Santana, a primary care physician at St. Elizabeth. She said the Tri-State area has a high pollen count due to its river valley geography, and people will experience more allergies on humid days.

Santana told us March 20 that she'd has already started to see more patients coming in. She said it is best to check the pollen count before stepping outside.

Most pollen comes from trees between February and May. Grasses come out in the middle of the season and then, in late summer, ragweed and weed become the ultimate enemy each year.

For pollen counts:

Eliminating environmental triggers entirely may not be an option, but those who deal with allergies have ways to reduce symptoms and enjoy daily life more comfortably.

Kings Island re-opens its gates for the 2026 season this weekend, beginning April 18.

Season pass-holders can get in one day early, on April 17.

It's also the first time riders will get to check out the park's new and yet old? attraction. Phantom Theater, which originally ran from 1992 to 2002, has returned as "Phantom Theater Opening Nightmare," replacing Boo Blasters on Boo Hill, which closed in September 2025.

The reimagined experience brings back fan-favorite characters, including No Legs Larry and Maestro, and uses the same cars and ride system as the original attraction. The ride takes guests through a haunted opera house in a new interactive adventure.

In the attraction, lightning strikes the theater and releases notes from Maestro's organ. Guests are given flashlights and tasked with helping Larry light the way and guide guests to their seats.

Watch Frank Marzullo take a spin on the new ride:

The ride's history stretches back decades. After the original Phantom Theater closed in 2002, the attraction became Scooby Doo's Haunted Castle from 2002 to 2010, before eventually becoming Boo Blasters on Boo Hill.

In total, Kings Island says the new ride will feature 26 interactive scenes featuring multi-sensory effects like wind and sound. There will also be hidden Easter eggs throughout the ride and a grand on-stage musical finale.

"Families who have visited Kings Island will remember how special the original Phantom Theater was, and they've always wanted it to return," said Tony Carovillano, park manager of Kings Island. "While paying homage to the original ride, Phantom Theater: Opening Nightmare's modern and advanced features will help create new memories and stories for all who take their seat inside this amazing experience."

Watch below to learn more about Phantom Theater:

Kings Island fans also won't have long to wait until the park's first event of the season: The Food and Wine Festival will serve up hand-crafted menus every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from May 29 through June 21.

One thing not yet available this season will be the water park. Soak City doesn't open until May 23 Memorial Day weekend.

Also returning this year will be Kings Island's chaperone policy, first implemented in 2023. The policy says all guests 15 and younger must be accompanied by someone who is at least 21 years old to remain in the park. If they don't have a chaperone, they will not be able to enter the park after 2 p.m. on Saturdays and 4 p.m. on other days; if they area already inside, they will need a chaperone to be able to stay in the park into the evening.

Starting Saturday, Kings Island will be open each weekend from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. The park begins operating daily in mid-May.

Residents possibly facing eviction demanded answers about an ongoing dispute with the Cincinnati Metropolitan Housing Authority and Touchstone Property Services at a Cincinnati City Council meeting Wednesday.

Tenants in The Evanston Apartments allege a former property manager misused or pocketed their rent money, leading to notices claiming they are behind on payments. It's a story we've been following for weeks.

"It just pisses me off that we have to go through this, and nobody is listening to us," a resident of The Evanston said to council as he held back tears.

Approximately a dozen residents attended the council meeting, where several insisted they had paid their rent and accused the former property manager of stealing funds.

"I pay my rent faithfully every month," Marcella Kinzey, a resident at The Evanston, said. "They go into my account every month and get their rent. I said its not fair to me or anyone. To me, its embarrassing."

WATCH: Residents share frustrations with a lack of answers after alleged rent payment fraud

City leaders told the residents they are aware of the situation.

"There is an active criminal investigation," Council member Scotty Johnson said. "I just want to (reassure) the people we are listening. We are doing everything we legally can to rectify this situation."

CMHA CEO Gregory Johnson said the agency first became aware of potential nefarious activity in November.

We asked Johnson if this was a widespread issue or an isolated event.

"What we know at this moment, weve turned it over to the prosecutors office," Johnson responded.

Johnson said at least 35 of the 58 residents who received notices have responded, which could potentially fix the issue if they are found to be legitimate victims.

Still, tenants want answers to come sooner.

"I just wish we could get some resolution to this for the tenants to have the perpetrator properly prosecuted," Marvin Barnes, a resident of The Evanston, said.

Barnes, who moved into the complex in late 2024, said the former property manager instructed him to sign blank money orders.

Months later, Barnes discovered the money orders were made out to the property manager's name instead of Touchstone or the housing authority.

"Where are our leaders to say, 'Not in my town'?" Bishop Sonny James, a pastor and activist who has been fighting to help the residents, said. "Were not going away. Were not here for a simple, 'My bad, Im sorry.'"

We reached out to the Cincinnati Police Department and the Hamilton County Prosecutors Office. They have not responded to questions about when or if anyone involved in the situation will be charged.

Currently, Touchstone Property Services, Inc. oversees 16 CMHA-owned properties, comprising a total of 1,249 units, according to the housing authority.

Jay wants to hear from you. You can contact him here:

Sal Stewart hit a pair of three-run home runs for a career-high six RBIs, Eugenio Suarez and Elly De La Cruz also homered, and the Cincinnati Reds beat the San Francisco Giants 8-3 on Wednesday night.

The 22-year-old Stewart has 12 career homers, the most by a Reds batter through his first 36 games since Aristedes Aquino hit 15 in 2018-19.

Stewart is the second-youngest Reds player with six RBIs in a game behind De La Cruz, who drove in six on Aug. 23, 2003 at the age of 21.

Rookie Rhett Lowder (2-1) allowed three runs in 6 2/3 innings for Cincinnati.

Former Red Tyler Mahle (0-3) started for San Francisco and allowed eight runs with five walks and four homers in four innings, raising his ERA from 4.30 to 7.23.

With two runners on in the first, Stewart hit his sixth home run to right-center. Three pitches later, Suarez reached the first row of seats in right to make it 4-0.

It was Suarez's 192nd homer as a Red, moving him past Brandon Phillips into 12th place on the franchise's career list. Suarez had three hits in a game for the first time since rejoining the Reds.

Daniel Susac's two-run double in the second inning cut the Giants' deficit to 4-2.

Following a pair of two-out walks by Mahle, Stewart launched his team-leading seventh homer to make the score 7-2. It was his first career multi-homer game.

De La Cruz made it 8-2 in the fourth with his sixth homer of the season, which sailed an estimated 442 feet to center.

Giants RHP Landen Roupp (2-1, 3.24 ERA) will face Reds RHP Chase Burns (1-1, 3.31) in the series finale on Thursday.

Representatives from the Trump administration are briefing lawmakers about plans to secure the World Cup, now under two months away.

During a hearing on Capitol Hill, we heard senators being told that these high profile games will be secure and that they want to make it easy for international fans to get visas to come to the U.S. for the games.

Commerce Department officials told senators that the more people who visit, the better. Eleven cities stand to benefit from a huge economic windfall, with as many as 10 million fans coming to see World Cup games.

But there have been questions about whether ICE will be at the games conducting immigration enforcement.

"I am very concerned that because of statements made by the president and actions taken by the Trump administration, that we're going to be discouraging soccer fans from coming to games here," said Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-MD).

"There are many efforts being in place to ensure ease of travel and that people who want to come to the World Cup can come here, get the visa," said Robert O'Leary, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Travel and Tourism at the Department of Commerce.

RELATED NEWS | ICE agents to support investigations during World Cup in Canada

In February, the acting ICE director said that ICE would be on hand at these World Cup games in a security capacity but did not give more details.

Scripps News has reached out again to the White House to ask for that today, and they still aren't commenting on exactly what ICE is going to be doing at World Cup matches.

The New York Times is reporting that top FIFA leadership is considering asking President Trump to have a total moratorium on ICE raids during the World Cup.

President Trump enjoys a friendly relationship with FIFA's president, who presented him months ago with the first ever FIFA Peace Prize.

Zoey Kushner pushes black jeans through her sewing machine. Shes putting patches on them. One is a ghost riding a motorcycle, and it glows in the dark. Another is from a trip to South Carolina.

One has rainbow-colored letters and the words, hate has no home here.

That's why I'm here.

"It means a lot," Kushner said. "Because I know Im not the only one like me."

The Little Miami High School senior is talking to me from her grandmothers farm in Harlan Township. She recently spoke at a school board meeting, trying desperately not to cry. She tells me she wanted the adults there to know how students have been impacted by the district's decision to remove a poster from the classroom that referenced trans and pride flags.

I used to love going to school, Kushner said. But its not as fun to go to school anymore.

WATCH: We talk to students about Little Miami controversy

I ask her if she worries about becoming a target.

Im fine with being a target if it means other kids my age know theyre safe around me, Kushner said.

The 18-year-old was one of several students who told officials bullying has gotten worse since the boards decision in February. One student walked to the podium with a cane and said the decision also impacts people living with disabilities.

It feels like everyone and everything is against you, Kushner told me. And it sucks. And I dont want any kids to feel that way. Because I felt that way.

Before their decision, school board members cited a state law requiring parental consent to teach sexual content. One board member said the "hate has no home here" slogan was fine, but the symbols underneath the words were the problem. Symbols that represent the LGBTQ+ community.

The teacher who put the poster up is now suing the district.

District officials declined an interview request for this story, but said in a statement they take bullying seriously.

The safety, well-being and sense of belonging of every student is a top priority, a spokesperson said in an email. We strongly encourage any student who experiences or witnesses bullying or harassment to report it.

During the first semester this school year, reported bullying incidents went up 41% compared to last year, according to data from the school district. Only one of the 41 reported incidents were validated.

Standing on a deck at the Kushner farm, Ray Fischer tells me he was once pushed into a locker at school.

Ive been bullied quite a bit for just being myself, Fischer said. I feel like people should be able to walk around freely without having to be afraid of being hurt or discriminated against.

A freshman at Little Miami, Fischer shows me stickers and posters he made to pass out at school. Stickers with the same flags that were taken down. He says it almost got him suspended.

The two students talk about teachers and Kushner asks if Fischer has to take gym class. Then, Fischer gives Kushner a fist bump and tells her underclassmen look up to her.

Youre a safe person to me, he said.

this link.

On Tax Day 2026, Scripps News spoke with Kelly Loeffler, head of the U.S. Small Business Administration, about how business owners and Americans as a whole are faring under the Trump administration's economic policies.

IRS data has showed a slight increase so far in the average American's tax return, but less than was forecast as tax season got underway.

Loeffler said a clearer picture may emerge as more tax returns are processed.

"These are early returns we're talking about. Today is April 15. It's tax day, so we still have millions of more tax returns to process before we get to the final result... If Democrats had their way, instead of Republicans standing up for common sense, Americans would have been writing checks to the federal government."

RELATED NEWS | Middle East war drives consumer sentiment to its lowest level in 70 years

Americans are receiving their returns as a U.S. blockade of Iranian shipping sends fresh unsteadiness through markets for energy and food, some of which depends on oil products and fertilizer moved through the Strait of Hormuz.

Loeffler claimed that climbing prices for gasoline, groceries and other essentials would stabilize as the administration achieved its war objectives in the Middle East.

"Let's remember that Democrats are the party of high gas prices. Under Joe Biden in June 22 of 22 we reached $5 and above for gas prices... . This is a short term disruption that will provide long term price stability. Prices will go down lower than when they started, because what was built in was that potential volatility that always existed from having a terrorist government controlling so much of our incremental oil reserves. So now that threat is going to be eliminated, when we get through the diplomatic negotiations, and Americans will have more stability, more certainty and lower gas prices than ever."

A new promotional advertisement highlighting mail-in ballots is on the airwaves across Ohio.

The ad, paid for by the American Postal Workers Union, advocates for mail-in ballot access. It specifically highlights the need among working families, nurses, the military and farmers.

Vote by mail is not a new thing. Its been going on since the Civil War," Don Hoffrogge, president of the American Postal Workers Union Greater Cincinnati 164, said.

Hoffrogge brought together the Ohio League of Women Voters and labor union leaders for a press conference Wednesday afternoon.

WATCH: Why local advocates came together to push for mail-in voting

Advocates spoke about the importance of voting access for people whose jobs or schedules don't allow them the time to vote in-person. Hoffrogge said in the 2024 election, one in three people voted by mail.

Brian Griffin, the executive secretary/treasurer for the Cincinnati AFL-CIO Labor Council, was one of the leaders at the press conference.

The vast majority of working people do not control their time. They live by schedules set by someone else," Griffin said.

On March 31, President Donald Trump signed an executive order titled "Ensuring Citizenship Verification and Integrity in Federal Elections."

A White House spokesperson sent us this information the day after Trump signed the executive order:

But the president's executive order is already facing legal challenges.

Jonathan Smith, president of the American Postal Workers Union, put out a statement the day the executive order was signed, calling it "anti-voter".

Wednesday afternoon, we stopped by the University of Cincinnati to speak with students who recently voted by mail.

Freshman Joseph Britton told us why he chose mail-in voting.

Ease of access, also had work and other obligations. By mail, I thought OK, thats a good option, I dont have to go in," Britton said.

We also spoke with Constance Okonkwo, a freshman at UC, who said she wants to vote by mail, but has had questions.

"Being from a different city, it has been kind of confusing, knowing what to do for mail-in ballots and things of that sort," Okonkwo said. "I want my vote to count, so I'm worried about it being lost or anything of that sort."

We asked Claire Wagner, president of the Cincinnati-area League of Women Voters, about common questions regarding mail-in ballot security.

Our Secretary of State Frank LaRose has said that our elections, our last presidential elections in 2024, were 99.99% accurate," Wagner said.

Wagner cited a post-election audit after the 2024 election in Ohio.

We reached out to the White House on Wednesday and received this statement from a spokesperson.

We also reached out to local and Ohio-based federal lawmakers. Sen. Bernie Moreno's office said he supports Trump's executive order.

Rep. Greg Landsman's office sent us the following statement:

Ohio's Secretary of State's website has more information if you're looking for your local board of elections.

Cincinnati Public Schools Superintendent Shauna Murphy on Thursday detailed how an out-of-area officer entered multiple district schools, claiming to do "wellness checks" on students on behalf of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

"(It was) pretty alarming to us, but we feel our children are in a good place and probably the most safe being in schoolhouses," Murphy said.

In a letter to parents on Wednesday, the district said the officers visited "a small number of schools," but did not have any interaction with students.

Murphy said the district's general counsel, Daniel Hoying, alerted her Wednesday afternoon that staff told him officers claiming to work for ICE came into three schools: Western Hills University High School, Rees E. Price Elementary School and Roberts Academy.

WATCH: What the district's letter to parents said

The superintendent said one of the officers identified herself to staff as Chief Tonina Lamanna of the Village of Gratis Police Department, which sits south of Dayton in Preble County. Lamanna also had another officer with her.

"They identified their need as being there for a wellness check," Murphy said. "I don't know, to them, what a wellness check means, and our staff didn't bother for that interpretation. They asked them to leave."

The superintendent said the officers did not present any warrants or paperwork, only telling staff they were there on behalf of ICE. After learning of the officers' whereabouts, Hoying contacted Lamanna, telling her that all inquiries must go through his office.

Murphy said staff followed protocol, which allows parents or guardians on file to take students out of class.

"I'm super proud of our staff as they followed through as they are trained and did not entertain the police chief (and the other officer)," Murphy said. "They did exactly as we asked them to do."

The superintendent said she has spoken to Mayor Aftab Pureval, Interim Cincinnati Police Chief Adam Hennie and Sheriff Charmaine McGuffey about the incident.

Murphy said this is the first time the district has had this kind of interaction with ICE or officers claiming to work for ICE.

"It's a concern for all of Cincinnati Public Schools, including our school board," Murphy said. "It's a serious concern for me. We prioritize the safety of our children at all times."

She said if something like this happens again, "we will be prepared to protect our children and our staff."

"Any threat to our staff or students is alarming to me ... I view that (incident) as a threat," said Murphy.

Pureval shared WCPO's stream of the press conference on his Facebook, writing in part, "As a CPS parent I am disgusted by the incomprehensible actions of the Gratis Police Chief."

"It is patently ridiculous and inexcusable that a police chief from a small town an hour from here would come into our Citys public schools unannounced, let alone do so allegedly at ICEs request, to intimidate our children and their families," he wrote. "Stay out of Cincinnati."

In a statement, McGuffey said she is working with federal and state partners "to ensure guidelines and policies are followed" after Wednesday's incident.

We were able to reach out to Lamanna, who replied only to tell us to submit a Freedom of Information Act request to ICE.

ICE told us in a statement that Lamanna is a law enforcement partner who "attempted to verify school enrollment and conduct welfare checks on children who arrived unaccompanied across the border."

A spokesperson noted that Lamanna was not an ICE officer and the visits were not "an enforcement action."

Inside one Covington storefront, women are turning their ideas into reality.

Muse Boutiques is a new retail incubator from nonprofit Aviatra Accelerators that allows women-owned small businesses a space to sell their products in a space with below-market rent.

"(Aviatra Accelerators) helps women business owners start their business, grow their business, basically helping women entrepreneurs make more money," said Jill Morenz, the nonprofit's CEO. "Over our 16 years, we have helped more than 6,000 women business owners get started, grow and even scale to $1 million businesses."

WATCH: How the boutique helps women entrepreneurs grow their business

Kris Richter, founder of Paint Playground in Milford, is selling her creative artwork at the boutique after winning Aviatra's pitch competition.

"Last summer, I participated in their momentum program, which really helped me understand and be able to articulate about my business better, and helped me grow in a lot of different ways," Richter said.

The boutique serves as a launching pad for Richter and others to showcase their best products whether that be clothing, jewelry, books or even art.

"Our spin art is really fun ... we'll give you plastic ponchos to wear, and safety glasses," Richter said. "You get a canvas that hangs on the wall, and you can throw the paint, like you can drip it with pipettes."

Muse Boutiques operates out of Aviatra's headquarters at 114 W. Pike Street, near several other stores and restaurants. Customers can shop from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays.

A candidate running to be Ohio's Republican nominee for governor has a new social media video targeting frontrunner Vivek Ramaswamy and it is raising concerns due to racist language and the use of a weapon.

Caution: Some may find language in this report to be offensive.

Ohio Republican gubernatorial candidate Casey Putsch can be seen entering the frame in a video he posted on X.

"Hey Vivek, you want to play Cowboys versus Indians?" Putsch can be heard saying before firing a gun three times.

He then goes on to say, "Don't worry, it's feather, not dot," using discriminatory words to differentiate between an indigenous person and an individual from India. Dot, referring to a bindi that some Hindus, Jains and Buddhists wear.

"One hundred percent, it's a threat," Case Western Reserve University religion and philosophy professor Dr. Deepak Sarma said.

Sarma was horrified to see Putsch targeting GOP frontrunner Vivek Ramaswamy using racist language and a weapon.

"This person is perpetuating, is fueling xenophobia in the United States," Sarma said. "And he's doing it in the most egregious way possible."

In an interview, Putsch claimed he wasnt being racist, nor threatening.

"I am also supporting the Second Amendment and exercising my First Amendment right to make a joke that lots of people think is actually funny," Putsch said.

People are being sensitive, Putsch said, and he posts a lot on social media that "shouldnt be taken seriously." He posts about Indian people like Ramaswamy routinely, saying to deport all of them including his fellow candidate.

"How would that be racist? Because there are people that should be deported to all different places of the globe, and just because we might joke about deporting Vivek, how does that have anything to do with race, other than the fact that he's questionably American, and that's a funny joke too," Putsch said.

"How is he questionably American? He was born in Cincinnati," I responded.

"Yeah, he was born to Indian foreign nationals who came here just to have an anchor baby," Putsch said.

Ramaswamy stated that his parents immigrated legally, and his mother is a naturalized citizen. His father never took the citizenship test, he said in 2023.

Dehumanizing comments have been common in politics, Sarma said, and policies like mass deportations have been embraced by the Republican Party and Ramaswamy.

RELATED: Vivek Ramaswamy deleted social media heading into the Ohio governor's race. Here's why

Ramaswamy has also supported ending birthright citizenship for U.S.-born children of undocumented immigrants, he said in 2023.

"There is some irony to this, in that he has supported these positions, and he's supported [President Donald] Trump, and he supported Trump's rhetoric, and it has come back to bite him," Sarma said.

Ramaswamy's team declined to comment, but his running mate, Senate President Rob McColley, addressed general racism and violence in politics. We were unable to ask explicitly about the attack on Ramaswamy, and McColley couldn't comment directly on it due to rules around discussing campaigns while on the Senate floor.

"I think it doesn't matter what party you're in. We've seen political violence happen, pftentimes, we've seen that on the left. We've seen it in some cases on the right," McColley said. "Political violence should be condemned at every level."

Not only does this type of rhetoric need to be condemned, Sarma said, but Republicans need to work with each other to combat racism.

Hot water

Putsch explained that an event location had canceled on him after agreeing to host a Columbus fundraiser.

La Chatelaine, a French bistro, apologized to customers and the community for having agreed to host him. They canceled the event after they were made aware of his "pro-Nazi opinions and beliefs," the restaurant said on Facebook.

Our story featuring Putsch from January delved into previous comments Putsch had made about the Holocaust, Adolf Hitler and Jewish people.

RELATED: Who is Casey Putsch? Meet the GOP candidate challenging Vivek Ramaswamy for Ohio governor

In our interview, we questioned him about his comments that Hitler had some good decisions and beliefs.

Putsch had also faced controversy online after he announced a "beer hall rally." In connection with his last name, online users linked it to Hitler's failed coup to overthrow the German government, known as the 'Beer Hall Putsch.'

Putsch said he couldn't help that he was German and had a German last name.

But double entendrees aren't unheard of for Putsch, as he himself noted in his Cowboys versus Indians remark.

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A University of Southern California freshman said he will advocate for reform after he was blinded by a law enforcement projectile at a "No Kings" protest in Los Angeles in late March.

Tucker Collins, 18, his mother, and his attorney, V. James DeSimone, spoke at a news conference in Los Angeles on Wednesday to announce the initiation of legal action against the federal government. DeSimone said he believes a Federal Protective Service officer employed by the Department of Homeland Security fired the shot at Collins face.

Collins, an astronautical engineering student at USC, said many activities have become more challenging since his eyeball was surgically removed due to his injury, including many of the fine skills he needs to handle small objects as part of his engineering degree. Collins said he will also need to undergo additional surgeries in the future.

He criticized the federal officer who fired toward his head.

Theres no realm in which you should do that. Especially in a situation where Im behind a fence, Im 30 feet away, Im just taking photos, theres nothing that Im posing a threat to, Collins said.

Videos provided to Scripps News last week by DeSimone showed Collins was taking pictures and videos during a demonstration outside a federal detention center in Los Angeles when he suddenly fell to the ground. Other photos showed the young mans face covered in blood, and being tended to by a medic..

We have the First Amendment right to protest, DeSimone told Scripps News. There are ways to deal with crowds. They dont include shooting less lethal projectiles traveling over 200 miles an hour at people unless there is an imminent threat to those officers.

In a statement to Scripps News, a DHS spokesperson said last week, The First Amendment protects speech and peaceful assembly not rioting. DHS is taking appropriate and constitutional measures to uphold the rule of law and protect our officers and the public from dangerous rioters. Our law enforcement has followed their training and used the minimum amount of force necessary to protect themselves, the public, and federal property.

The statement went on to say that seven warnings were issued before crowd control measures were deployed, describing the scene as a riot during which people threw rocks, bottles, and cement blocks at officers at the Roybal Federal Building. Several people were arrested, according to the governments statement.

At the news conference, Collins disputed the governments assertion that there were audible warnings before he was hit.

I was recording when it happened. There was no warning, Collins said. One minute I was recording and the next minute I couldnt see.

DeSimone said he initially thought Collins may have been struck by a pepperball, but now believes an agent used an FN303 launcher and ammo. The attorney said he obtained photos from the students surgeon showing debris and fragments from the projectile that were removed from the students eye.

I saw all the photos from the surgery, and I know this is kind of childish but I just cant believe that was in my eye. I cant believe it was that easy and that quick to inflict this kind of damage, Collins said.

They call them less lethal projectiles. I want to emphasize thats less lethal. They can kill someone if they hit someone in the head, DeSimone said.

DeSimone called on city officials to conduct a criminal investigation into the officer who fired the projectile.

The medic who tended to Collins at the protest, who asked to be identified only by her online moniker of Ken, told Scripps News she had to pick up the student and carry him to safety while officers continued to fire less-lethal munitions at the crowd. She said she has frequently attended protests and treated people who were hurt, but the injury to Collins stands out.

Ive treated quite a few injuries, but this was probably the most serious and traumatic Ive treated, Ken said. It was like a war zone.

During Wednesdays news conference, Collins said he is doing his best to return to normal life, but he doesnt know how possible that will be.

This is permanent.. I dont know if Ill be able to do what I love. Ill just forever be changed, Collins said.

DeSimone said his office filed a federal tort claim on the students behalf this week. The attorney said the claim is the first step in the legal process. If no settlement is reached, Collins can proceed with filing a lawsuit against the federal government.