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Author: Danielle Antosz

  • Maryland man lost $40,000 to ‘evil geniuses’ in ‘polished’ scam — with over 36,000 reported incidents that cost Americans $1 billion in 2024, here are the patterns you need to watch out for

    Maryland man lost $40,000 to ‘evil geniuses’ in ‘polished’ scam — with over 36,000 reported incidents that cost Americans $1 billion in 2024, here are the patterns you need to watch out for

    In just the first four months of 2025, people in Prince George’s County, Maryland, have lost at least $1 million to scams, according to police.

    One person lost $700,000. Another area resident lost $40,000 after being tricked by fraudsters who posed variously as a Microsoft tech support agent, a rep from his bank and even a federal agent.

    “I was dealing with people I would call evil geniuses,” he told WTOP, asking not to be named. “At the time, I thought I was actually safeguarding the money.”

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    While he may not get his $40,000 back, he’s sharing his story in the hope that he can protect other people from falling for the same con.

    Rehearsed responses and fake credentials

    It started when the man saw a pop-up on his computer saying his computer had been hacked. The pop-up message included a phone number to call for tech support.

    He called the number and was soon speaking with someone he thought was a Microsoft employee. He was then transferred to a woman who claimed to be from his bank. Then he was connected with another person impersonating a federal official.

    Despite his skepticism, each of the imposters had rehearsed responses and fake credentials.

    He recalled actually saying to one of them, “This is exactly what a scammer would do.”

    “But something about her polished rhetoric came back and convinced me otherwise,” he said.

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    The scammers warned him not to use his phone, laptop, or email, claiming that all his devices were compromised. He was told not to speak to friends or even Google the word ‘scams’— as that could be a red flag.

    Believing his accounts were at risk, he handed over $40,000 to someone he thought was a legitimate carrier. That’s when the Prince George’s County Police Department stepped in.

    So when Gyoung Lee, 47, of Flushing, New York, arrived at the victim’s home expecting more cash, officers with the Financial Crimes Unit (FCU) arrested him on the scene.

    Officers also arrested Parmveer Parmveer, 25, of Grove City, Ohio, in connection with the case involving a $700,000 loss.

    Sgt. John Quarless of the Prince George’s County FCU said it’s important for victims not to be embarrassed because these kinds of tech scams are so common.

    “What I encourage, no matter how much information you have, is to call the police and report it,” he told WTOP. “Let us do our due diligence.”

    The tech scam and red flags

    According to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), Americans lost $1.4 billion to tech support scams in 2024, with more than 36,000 reported incidents.

    While most victims of such scams are over 60, scammers target people of all backgrounds: young and old, rich and poor, highly educated or not.

    What is consistent is the con artists’ approach.

    “They’re going to create a sense of urgency, a sense of privacy and don’t want you to talk to anybody about it,” Sgt. Quarless said.

    It’s how scammers gain control. Don’t let them. Here are red flags to watch out for.

    A sense of urgency

    Scammers often claim your money is in immediate danger or your account has been compromised. They’ll push you to act fast, hoping you don’t slow down and think it through. Don’t fall for it. Instead, hang up the phone and talk to someone you trust. Visit the bank in person if you’re worried about calling in.

    Isolation tactics

    Victims are frequently told not to talk to anyone — not friends, not family, not even their bank. That’s a major red flag. They’re worried that if you ask for help, someone will stop their scam in its tracks. Instead, make sure you ask for help. Talk to a trusted friend, financial advisor, or bank employee.

    Demands for untraceable payments

    Any request for money through cash couriers, wire transfers, crypto or gift cards is a giveaway. Real businesses and agencies don’t work this way. Never send money to someone you don’t know through these methods.

    Offering to protect your money

    Federal regulations already protect most bank accounts. Pulling the money from your account won’t protect it in most cases. If someone offers to protect your money from a scam, there’s an excellent chance they are the scammers. They’ll say you’re moving the money to a ‘safe account,’ but that account belongs to them.

    If you’re being scammed, officials recommend slowing down, hanging up the phone and calling your bank. Look on the back of your debit or credit card for the legitimate customer service number; don’t trust online pop-up ads.

    Many victims stay silent, feeling ashamed that they were fooled. But speaking up like this victim did helps law enforcement track down suspects and potentially warn others before they’re targeted.

    What to read next

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    This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

  • A former In-N-Out employee is suing the fast food chain for $3M under California’s anti-bias laws — he says he faced discipline and was eventually fired for refusing to shave his sideburns

    A former In-N-Out employee is suing the fast food chain for $3M under California’s anti-bias laws — he says he faced discipline and was eventually fired for refusing to shave his sideburns

    A former In-N-Out employee is suing the burger chain for more than $3 million, saying he was discriminated against and fired because to his hairstyle.

    According to NBC Los Angeles, 21-year-old Elijah Obeng filed the lawsuit in early June in Compton Superior Court. He accuses In-N-Out of wrongful termination, racial discrimination, harassment, intentional infliction of emotional distress and failure to prevent workplace discrimination.

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    Obeng, a Black man, says he started working at the Compton In-N-Out after graduating from high school. But as his hair grew longer, he says management repeatedly reprimanded him for violating the company’s dress code, which requires hair to be tucked neatly under a hat.

    Humiliating and biased orders

    The lawsuit says Obeng began braiding his hair to comply with the policy, but that wasn’t enough. He says supervisors then told him to shave his sideburns, which he considers part of his cultural identity. After refusing, Obeng says he was written up for issues and passed over for promotions.

    On May 25, 2024, a supervisor allegedly sent him home in front of coworkers and told him to remove his sideburns. Obeng called the incident humiliating. When he chose not to comply and instead said he’d return for his next scheduled shift, he was fired days later.

    The company cited previous write-ups as the reason for termination, but Obeng believes he was let go for pushing back against what he describes as racially biased policies.

    So, what are his legal rights? Discrimination laws can vary by state, but California has several laws designed to protect workers in cases like this.

    California law prohibits workplace discrimination based on race, including hairstyles connected to cultural identity. Obeng’s lawsuit may rely on the CROWN Act, a 2019 state law that bans discrimination based on hair texture and protective hairstyles like braids, locs, twists and afros.

    Under the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), employees are also protected from:

    • Racial discrimination
    • Retaliation for asserting those rights
    • Harassment based on protected characteristics

    In California, policies that disproportionately impact certain racial or cultural groups — like grooming rules that punish Black hairstyles — may be illegal if they’re not essential for safety or job performance.

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    What to do if you’re being discriminated against

    In California, employers aren’t just expected to avoid outright discrimination; they’re also required to make reasonable accommodations for cultural expression, including hair. That matters, especially given the long history of Black employees being told their natural hair or protective styles are “unprofessional.”

    If you’re facing a situation like Obeng’s, here are steps you can take to protect your rights:

    1. Document everything

    Keep a written record of interactions with supervisors, discriminatory comments, policy inconsistencies and disciplinary actions. Forward any relevant emails from your work account to your personal email in case you lose access.

    2. Know your rights

    Review your employee handbook and familiarize yourself with protections under your state’s civil rights laws. In California, visit the Civil Rights department online. If you’re in another state, look into local enforcement laws.

    3. Report internally

    File a formal, written complaint with HR or your supervisor. Keep a copy for your records and include all relevant documentation, and stick to the facts.

    4. File with the state

    If your complaint isn’t addressed, you can file a report with the Civil Rights Department in California. In other states, contact your labor or human rights agency.

    5. Consider legal action

    If your concerns still aren’t resolved, you may want to speak with an employment lawyer. They can help you explore options, including a potential lawsuit for discrimination or wrongful termination.

    Obeng’s case is still unfolding, and In-N-Out has not publicly responded to the lawsuit. But for workers across the country, it’s a reminder that cultural expression, including hairstyles, is protected by law in many states. And when those rights are violated, employees have options.

    What to read next

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    This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

  • ‘We’re stuck with this house’: Utah family says their $860K new build cracked, flooded and forced them out in an 18-month ordeal — and state law left them with ‘no avenue for recovery’

    ‘We’re stuck with this house’: Utah family says their $860K new build cracked, flooded and forced them out in an 18-month ordeal — and state law left them with ‘no avenue for recovery’

    When Neal and Jessica Schmidt relocated from Chicago to Lehi, Utah, they were looking for more space for their growing family. They already had two young children and had just found out they were expecting a third.

    Drawn in by the stunning mountain views and the promise of a new life, they purchased a brand-new home for $860,000 from Toll Brothers, a developer that calls itself “America’s luxury home builder.”

    But that dream home quickly turned into a nightmare, they told FOX 13.  Within 30 days of moving in, the Schmidts say they noticed cracks in the drywall. By the second month, doors were no longer opening or closing properly as the house continued to settle.

    Then, while they were away, a pipe above the stove burst, flooding the house and forcing the family into a rental. What they thought would be a three-month displacement turned into an 18-month ordeal.

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    A long-standing battle between home buyers and builders

    Despite the home being under warranty, the Schmidts say the timeline for repairs dragged on without any guaranteed deadlines. During the entire time Toll Brothers was working on the home, the family lived in a series of short-term rentals.

    “We’re building tunnels under oceans,” Jessica Schmidt told FOX 13. “How hard is it to make sure this house doesn’t slide down a river?”

    Neal Schmidt began documenting the delays on social media, even tagging Toll Brothers. Other homeowners in the neighborhood also reported issues, but only one neighbor’s home was bought back by the builder. When the Schmidts asked for the same, they say the company flatly refused.

    In the end, the couple reached a private settlement with Toll Brothers and removed the social media posts. But the emotional and financial damage remained. “We’re stuck with this house that we know is never going to be worth what it could be,” Jessica said.

    The Schmidts’ story is far from unique in Utah. In a 2023 case that drew national attention, homes in a Draper, Utah neighborhood slid down a mountainside after being built on unstable ground.

    FOX 13 has investigated and found a common thread: Utah’s laws offer little protection for homebuyers facing construction defects.

    “There’s a fair chance that when you buy a home in Utah,” said John Morris, an attorney who has represented Utah homeowners, “and there are problems with that home, you really will have no avenue for recovery. Zero.”

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    What Utah law doesn’t do — and what buyers need to know

    Utah’s rapid growth has fueled a boom in new home construction, but legal protections haven’t kept pace. Unlike some states, which have licensing boards to investigate poor workmanship, Utah has no agency tasked with enforcing quality standards in new builds. The Division of Professional Licensing only penalizes builders for issues like working without permits, not for construction flaws that emerge after closing.

    Most builders offer warranties, but those warranties often favor the builder. They may not guarantee repair timelines and can exclude major problems. They also tend to limit what a homeowner can do legally, sometimes requiring arbitration instead of lawsuits, which can restrict your options for getting meaningful compensation.

    And while homeowners technically have six years to sue over safety-related defects, those cases are costly, time-consuming and rarely pay off. Utah doesn’t allow most homeowners to recover attorney’s fees in these lawsuits. So what can Utah buyers do?

    Before you buy:

    • Research the builder: Read reviews and look into past complaints or lawsuits.
    • Get a serious inspection: Don’t rely on a basic $150 inspection or city approval. Hire someone who can assess your home’s structural integrity and moisture protection.
    • Read the contract closely: Know what’s covered in the warranty, how long it lasts, and whether it includes binding arbitration clauses that limit your legal rights.

    After you move in:

    • File warranty claims early and in writing: Don’t wait — most builders won’t act unless you document the issue and make a formal claim.
    • Document everything: Photos, videos, repair requests, and email chains can all support your case if issues escalate.
    • Use public pressure: If you get nowhere with the builder, consider online reviews or reaching out to local reporters. One homeowner said that’s what finally got the company’s attention.
    • Understand your HOA rules: If your neighborhood has one, you may be financially responsible for repairs to shared infrastructure, even if it was the developer’s fault.

    Until Utah lawmakers pass stronger protections for buyers, the burden of making sure a home is safe and sound falls largely on the homeowner. And that means doing your homework long before the keys are in your hand.

    What to read next

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    This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

  • A cautious return: Nordstrom is coming back to San Francisco after closing its flagship store in 2023 — but it’ll look different as California retailers continue to crack down on theft

    In 2023, Nordstrom closed its flagship store in San Francisco after 35 years, leaving some local shoppers sad and disheartened. The company cited the changing "dynamics" of the area and the rising crime as key reasons for pulling out, according to CNN.

    "It’s a sad day. It’s a wonderful store. It’s been an anchor in San Francisco," Julie from San Francisco told ABC7 News on the day the store closed.

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    "It’s kind of depressing, being a native of San Francisco, just seeing how downtown is kind of going away," Denise Alexander from Oakland told ABC7 reporters at the time.

    Now, shoppers may soon have a reason to celebrate. Nordstrom is returning to the city — with a catch. The company plans to open a new “Nordstrom Local” storefront at 1919 Fillmore in the Pacific Heights neighborhood, a move many see as a cautious reentry into San Francisco’s shifting retail landscape.

    A new type of Nordstrom

    Rather than a full-scale department store, Nordstrom Local is a smaller-format concept offering online order pickups, returns, tailoring and personal styling appointments. It won’t carry traditional retail inventory.

    Colleen Delaney, who lives nearby, sees it as a welcome sign of recovery.

    "A lot of the stores have been sitting dormant for a very long time. So, as a neighborhood lover, we’re really excited to see some energy coming back into the city," she told ABC7 News.

    But not everyone is on board. Dwayne Pugh of SVRN, a local shop nearby, worries a large chain like Nordstrom could increase traffic and parking congestion in an already busy area.

    "I don’t think it’s the most healthy addition. I mean, particularly Nordstrom being this big company, I think there could be smaller businesses that would impact the neighborhood a little bit better," he told ABC7.

    Nordstrom isn’t the only major retailer that closed locations due to theft and safety concerns. In the last two years, Target, Walgreens, Old Navy and even Whole Foods have shuttered stores in downtown San Francisco, citing rampant shoplifting and operational challenges post-pandemic.

    So, does Nordstrom’s return suggest that retail theft is no longer a concern?

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    New California laws aim to reduce retail theft

    According to the National Retail Federation’s 2023 Security Survey, retailers nationwide lost a staggering $112.1 billion to theft in 2022. San Francisco, in particular, became a flashpoint, with KTVU Fox 2 covering shoplifting incidents and security concerns leading many chains to reevaluate their presence in the city.

    In response, Governor Gavin Newsom launched a statewide crackdown on retail theft starting in 2025. The initiative has expanded funding for local law enforcement and called for collaboration between law enforcement and the California Highway Patrol in high-crime areas to increase public safety.

    According to the governor’s office, $267 million in public safety grants have already been distributed to communities to hire more police and secure more suspects.

    Other laws enacted in the state introduce harsher penalties for smash-and-grab robberies, retail and cargo theft and large-scale fencing operations. They allow prosecutors to aggregate theft across counties, expand probation terms, issue retail theft restraining orders and require online platforms to verify high-volume sellers to curb the resale of stolen goods.

    These changes could have the potential to encourage retailers like Nordstrom to return. The brand’s move to open a Nordstrom Local is more than a symbolic comeback — it’s strategic. By offering services instead of stocking shelves, the retailer likely aims to avoid the challenges faced by its former downtown location.

    Without merchandise on display, the new store is far less attractive to would-be thieves. With lower overhead, reduced risk and a more neighborhood-friendly footprint, similar to Target’s smaller “City Target” concept, Nordstrom’s return isn’t just about restoring its presence, it’s creating some protection too.

    Whether this new format will be enough to re-establish trust with San Francisco shoppers remains to be seen. But for now, it offers something many residents say they’ve been missing: hope that retail in the city isn’t over just yet.

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    This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

  • This Houston man built 1 big house on land bought by his great-grandma in the 1800s — now he and his sisters all live together happily. Should more American families do the same?

    This Houston man built 1 big house on land bought by his great-grandma in the 1800s — now he and his sisters all live together happily. Should more American families do the same?

    When Reggie Van Lee’s great-grandmother, a Black woman, bought a plot of land near Houston in 1899, she likely couldn’t have imagined the home that would sit on it.

    In 2012, Lee, a Harvard graduate, former Alvin Ailey dancer and current Houston Consulting Executive, built a massive 20,000-square-foot house on the plot of land with a great room, beauty salon, chapel and even a helicopter pad.

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    But the home isn’t just for him — today. He lives there with his three sisters and even some of their spouses. Lee thinks togetherness is important, especially during a time when so much is uncertain.

    "I built this house not just for my immediate family, but for my extended family, including friends," Lee explained to Fox 26 News reporter Damali Keith.

    Can several generations and members of the family live together in harmony?

    How do they all get along?

    Lee said the house is large enough to have space for everyone to spread out and get together when they want. The master suite, for example, is on a separate side of the house.

    "The house is large enough, so when you really want to be by yourself, you can. When you want to be with others, you can as well,” Lee said. “Having dinners together, family dinners together. It’s just amazing."

    The home is large, but Lee added that they all use the space. Last year, they hosted a 300-person wedding for his now 77-year-old sister, who was getting remarried. They also hosted a party to commemorate the 125th anniversary of his great-grandmother purchasing the land.

    But what happens to the family home when Lee is gone? He hopes it will stay in the family and has made provisions in his will to keep it as a family home or donate the home and the property.

    "I want very much for this land and this house to stay in the family. In my will, it says if no family member lives in the house, the house actually goes to the Texas Historical Society. It’s not going to be a situation where Uncle Reggie dies, they sell everything, and split the money,” Lee said. “Especially in these times where there are so many forces of evil against us as people and against people coming together in love as opposed to being divisive, I think families should be the ones to send that message of togetherness."

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    Should more Americans live with extended families?

    According to 2022 U.S. Census, approximately 4.8 million households in the country are multigenerational, meaning they include at least three generations living together. While data on extended family households — those with aunts, uncles or cousins — is harder to track in the U.S. But it’s certainly commonplace in other parts of the world.

    A Pew Research study reported that extended family households are the most common type of households worldwide, with 38% of people living with extended family. Nearly half of people in the Asia-Pacific area live with extended family, while only 11% of North Americans do.

    But should multigenerational and extended family living be more common in the U.S.? Beyond emotional benefits, this arrangement offers practical and financial advantages.

    Rising home prices make it a smart financial move

    Housing costs in the US. are skyrocketing. According to Zillow, the average home price is now over $355,000 — an increase of 2.7% from last year. Living with extended family can help households share expenses and reduce financial stress. Additionally, purchasing a home rather than Purchasing a home, rather than renting, can also help families build generational wealth.

    More child and elder care options

    Childcare is one of the biggest expenses for American families. According to ChildCare Aware, a nonprofit supporting the U.S. childcare system, the average annual cost of childcare in 2023 was $11,582. For families with multiple children, this expense can exceed the annual earnings of one parent.

    Elder care is similarly costly. A home health aide averages $6,292 per month, making in-home care financially challenging for many families. Living with extended family provides an alternative to expensive childcare or elder care while fostering a stronger family support system.

    Improved financial security

    Pooling resources in a multigenerational household can provide a financial cushion. With multiple incomes contributing to household expenses, families may be able to pay off debt, save more or invest more in long-term financial goals. This setup also offers stability during financial hardships, such as job losses or unexpected home repairs.

    As more families face financial uncertainty and work-life balance challenges, multigenerational living may grow in popularity. For people like Lee, it’s not just a practical choice — it’s about preserving family bonds and creating a lasting legacy.

    "At the end of the day, all we really have is family,” Lee said. “Too many people — Black people in particular — have given up family land."

    What to read next

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    This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

  • Texas just signed a new law against ‘jugging’ to protect people who carry cash — here are the brazen crimes happening nationwide that forced lawmakers to act

    Texas just signed a new law against ‘jugging’ to protect people who carry cash — here are the brazen crimes happening nationwide that forced lawmakers to act

    In the surveillance footage, a car holding a wad of cash fresh from the bank pulls into a convenience store on Houston’s Telephone Road.

    Within seconds, two vehicles pull up. Thieves jump out, smash windows on both sides of the victim’s car, grab the cash and drive away.

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    “It’s not just bold, it’s also brazen,” Andy Kahan with Crime Stoppers Houston told KHOU 11 News. “It’s also the fact that you don’t have any fear factor in our criminal justice system.”

    The day before that incident, police say, a man broke into a vehicle at a local car wash and took cash that had also just been withdrawn from a bank. When the car’s owner confronted him, the thief reportedly flashed a weapon before fleeing.

    The back-to-back cases in late April are part of a tactic known as "jugging," where thieves watch people leave financial institutions or other businesses, then follow and rob them, often at their next stop.

    Jugging is not a new crime, but until recently, there was no specific charge for it. Texas is changing that this fall.

    Jailed for jugging

    Signed June 20, House Bill 1902 makes jugging a standalone offense with harsher penalties. It applies not only to culprits who follow victims from banks and ATMs but also from stores, businesses or other locations where valuables may be picked up.

    “No longer will you be charged — like in these particular cases — with just theft or robbery,” Kahan explained. “You’re going to be charged with the offense of jugging. And that is going to pack a more powerful impact, hopefully, on the courts.”

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    As of Sept. 1, jugging will carry a penalty of up to 180 days in jail and up to $10,000 in fines for a state-jail felony or up to life in prison if enhanced to a first-degree felony.

    Texas House Representative Christian Manuel told KFDM that jugging is a growing trend and is already common in cities like Houston, San Antonio, Dallas and Austin.

    How to protect yourself

    Experts warn that jugging happens fast and often without warning. Whether you’re making a bank withdrawal or picking up valuables, here are a few ways to avoid becoming a target:

    • Hide valuables before leaving the bank: Don’t count or display cash where others can see. Put it away discreetly — ideally before walking to your car.
    • Don’t leave valuables in the car: Even in a locked glove compartment, nothing is truly safe. Criminals may watch you stash the cash before smashing a window.
    • Vary your routine: Avoid frequenting the same branch or store at the same time each week.
    • Go straight home: Try not to run additional errands or stop at other businesses after making a big withdrawal.
    • Watch your surroundings: Keep an eye out to see if any vehicles appear to be following you. If you’re fearful, don’t go home — drive to a police station or call 911 from your car.

    What to read next

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    This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

  • ‘We just want some law and order’: South LA residents say trash fires, dumping, masked gunmen and nearby encampments are making life dangerous — and they want the state to do more

    Residents of LA’s South Bay community say they are fed up with dumping, trash fires and rising crime in their neighborhood — issues they claim are directly tied to nearby homeless encampments.

    The area sits at the intersection of multiple jurisdictions, including Union Pacific Railroad, Caltrans, the state of California and the city of Los Angeles. That overlap has made it difficult to determine who’s responsible for addressing the growing problems, but locals say they’re hopeful that Governor Gavin Newsom’s new ordinance targeting homeless encampments will finally be a solution.

    "We just want some law and order," local business owner Caesar Verdin told reporters.

    "Everyone pays their taxes. California is one of the most expensive states to live in and we feel like our tax money should be coming up with solutions instead of the problems getting bigger."

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    Residents concerned with fire, dumping and crime

    "It’s pretty lawless out here," Verdin told Fox 11 reporters. "Kids aren’t allowed to go outside on their own without adult supervision."

    Verdin’s family has owned and operated the local business for more than 40 years. He says things have gotten significantly worse in recent years.

    A recent report from the Los Angeles Fire Department seems to back up his claim. The department says that people experiencing homelessness (PEH) have been involved with at least 500 trash fires in the area since January 1st, 2025, according to Fox 11 News. The department noted a 475% increase in rubbish fires from 2014 to 2024 and while not all incidents are directly tied to homeless encampments, many are.

    The local Watts Fire Station told Fox 11 News that “easily” 95% of the fires they respond to are homeless-related. Under the 105/110 freeway interchange alone, more than 1,000 fires have been recorded this year.

    But fires aren’t the only concern. Masked gunmen recently rolled up in the area with AK-47s. Graffiti is also an issue and locals say that violent crime and illegal dumping have also escalated. Dave Matthews, a community activist, says bizarre, large-scale dumping has also been an issue.

    "We have 400 pounds of pork shoulder marinating on Figueroa and 127th that was dumped overnight. And then on Saturday, we had 1,000 pounds of pork ribs dumped on the street."

    The nearby railroad tracks have also become dangerous. In a recent tragic incident, a woman lying on the tracks had her leg severed by a train that was unable to stop in time.

    "And then a homeless person actually took the leg into an encampment," said Matthews, who found the limb.

    Locals are hopeful that Governor Gavin Newsom’s new model ordinance related to homeless encampments will finally bring peace to the area.

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    Governer Gavin Newson’s new ordinance aimed at reducing encampments

    The Public Policy Institute of California reports that the population of unhoused people in the state is estimated at 187,000, or 24% of the estimated total in the country. Moreover, two in three of these have no shelter at all. The ballooning issue of homelessness in the state is said to be one Governor Gavin Newsom hopes to shrink in time for a presidential run in 2028.

    The area where many of the fires and illegal dumping are taking place — described by Fox News as an “8-square mile danger zone” — is unique in that small sections of land owned by the city, state and private railways all intersect with each other. Responsibility for the area and enforcement on it has become a hot potato, making it easier for illegal activities to take place and encampments to thrive.

    In May, Gov. Newsom unveiled a model ordinance urging California cities to take quicker action to address unsafe or illegal encampments and connect unhoused residents with services.

    While cities aren’t required to adopt it, the ordinance provides a framework to restrict “persistent camping” in a single location and to prevent encampments from blocking sidewalks and public spaces. It also encourages jurisdictions to provide notice and make a reasonable effort to offer shelter before clearing an encampment.

    The rollout was paired with the announcement of $3.3 billion in grant money for facilities to treat mental disorders, including substance abuse. According to ABC 7 News, cities may be required to comply with the ordinance to access this funding.

    However, homeless advocates say punitive measures don’t work and the ordinance is not enough. Carolyn Coleman, executive director and CEO of the League of California Cities, says most cities already have similar ordinances. To solve the issue, they need money to address the root causes of homelessness, such as lack of housing.

    For residents of South LA, the issue feels urgent. Fires, violent crime and hazardous dumping have become part of daily life and the complex tangle of jurisdictional responsibility only makes matters worse.

    While Newsom’s proposed ordinance has brought hope, many locals say real change will only come with enforcement — and the political will to fund lasting solutions.

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  • California hotel guests awarded $2 million in bed bug lawsuit — they said the 1-night stay left them scarred, seeking medical treatment. How to protect yourself from bed bugs while traveling

    California hotel guests awarded $2 million in bed bug lawsuit — they said the 1-night stay left them scarred, seeking medical treatment. How to protect yourself from bed bugs while traveling

    Two men expecting a relaxing beachside stay ended up in a nightmare. They were “massacre[d] from bed bug bites” during a one-night hotel stay in Ventura, California, according to a lawsuit.

    The duo worked with lawyer Brian J. Virag of My Bed Bug Lawyer, Inc. to file the lawsuit in December 2021. A Ventura county jury recently sided with the pair, awarding them a total of $2 million in damages.

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    The Los Angeles Times reported on the verdict, calling it what “may be one of the largest known bed bug-related jury awards.”

    Here’s what happened.

    Forced to seek medical treatment

    Alvaro Gutierrez and Ramiro Sanchez booked a week-long stay at The Shores Inn in February 2020 but claimed they left after a single night due to a severe bed bug infestation. After the initial room was found to have bed bugs, the men were moved to another room, where the biting continued.

    According to their complaint obtained by USA TODAY, both men suffered “painful bed bug bites, severe skin rash, allergic reaction, scarring and personal injuries over the entirety of their bodies.” They also said they were forced to seek medical treatment.

    The lawsuit alleged that the hotel staff were aware of the infestation due to online reviews on Google and Yelp, but failed to resolve the problem.

    “The bed bugs latched onto the plaintiffs while they slept, sucked their blood until they were gorged, and resisted eradication,” the lawsuit claimed.

    USA TODAY says Gutierrez was awarded $400,000 for pain, disfigurement, grief, and emotional distress, while Sanchez received $600,000 for similar injuries. In addition to compensatory damages, the jury awarded each man $500,000 in punitive damages to hold the hotel accountable for its alleged negligence.

    The Shores Inn did not respond to media inquiries from USA TODAY or the Los Angeles Times. An appellate attorney recently hired by the hotel owners, Wendy Lascher, told the Times that they were considering appealing the decision, or moving for a mistrial or new trial.

    There are also concerns over juror conduct, according to the report. A note found inside one of the notebooks given to jurors suggests that jurors had been near the hotel during the trial and states that one told other jurors that the hotel was “an eyesore & should be tore down.”

    This is far from the only bed bug lawsuit. In April, tourists filed lawsuits against the Luxor hotel and the Treasure Island hotel in Las Vegas over this problem, reported KSNV.

    In a 2017 report, pest control company Orkin said almost half of all hotels have been the subject of litigation because of bed bugs, which according to their research cost, on average, $17,177 per incident.

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    How to avoid bed bugs at hotels

    While there’s no federal law requiring hotels to be free of bed bugs, most states and cities have health and sanitation codes that prohibit vermin or infestations. For example, Ohio’s code states, “No bedding which is infested with vermin or bedbugs shall be used on any bed in any hotel.”

    Bed bug exposure during travel is relatively common due to the number of guests in hotels, explains Allan Bossel, operations expert and professional bed bug exterminator at BBE Bed Bug Exterminator in Tampa Bay, Florida.

    “Large international events are the perfect opportunities for bed bugs to find new areas full of viable hosts,” he told Forbes.

    However, if a hotel fails to address known infestations or provide adequate care after a complaint, guests may have grounds for legal action.

    Here’s a practical guide on how to avoid bedbugs — and what to do if you find them.

    • Read reviews before you book: Check for recent reports of bed bugs or sanitation issues. A one-off complaint may not be a red flag, but repeated mentions are a concern.
    • Inspect the room before unpacking: Place your luggage in the tub or shower and check the bed. Look for reddish stains, tiny black dots, or live bugs near the seams of mattresses, headboards, chairs, and drawers.
    • Notify the hotel immediately: If you think your room has bed bugs, leave and notify the hotel as soon as possible. Hotels should act quickly to resolve the issue or reassign you.
    • Preserve evidence: Take photos of any visible bugs or bites. Save receipts for treatments and document interactions with hotel staff.
    • Treat your belongings: Wash and dry all clothes on high heat. If that’s not possible, seal items in plastic bags until they can be treated.
    • File a report: If the hotel fails to respond, contact your local or state health department or the state’s consumer protection office. Consider leaving an online review to warn other travelers.

    As this case shows, hotel guests have legal options if a property fails to address a known bed bug infestation, especially when management was previously informed and failed to act.

    “Evidence of negligence may include records of prior complaints, inadequate cleaning practices, or failure to inspect and treat rooms regularly,” says Shiner Law Group. “Negligence can also be established if the hotel or motel did not follow standard industry practices for pest control.”

    While many lawsuits settle out of court, this case sets a clear precedent, especially when victims allegedly suffer medical issues.

    If you’re considering legal action, consult with an attorney who specializes in premises liability, personal injury, or bed bug lawsuits.

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  • ‘It’s misery’: Long Island family says contractor gutted their home and vanished after $96K payment — now they’re living in a camper and facing thousands in losses

    ‘It’s misery’: Long Island family says contractor gutted their home and vanished after $96K payment — now they’re living in a camper and facing thousands in losses

    Deanna Salentino and her family were very excited to upgrade their home on Winston Court in Shoreham, New York. Instead, Salentino, her husband and their three children are now living in a camper parked in their backyard.

    “It’s misery,” she told News 12. “And I thought I was supposed to be moving into my house today. It’s awful.”

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    The family had big plans to create their dream home and hired Robert Cortese of Tool Time Construction to do the work. In May, they paid him $96,200 and he began tearing out walls.

    Since then, the family said, no work has been done. No materials or appliances have been ordered. What’s left behind are bare studs, loose wires and missing doors and railings.

    No comment from Cortese

    News 12 reporters tried to speak with Cortese, but he offered little explanation.

    “They say you took $96,000 but didn’t do the work. Can you explain that?” asked reporters in a visit to Cortese’s home.

    “That’s a lie,” Cortese replied. He then asked the news crew to leave and gave no further comment.

    Salentino later found out that Cortese is listed on Suffolk County Consumer Affairs’ “Wall of Shame” for operating without a contractor’s license. The public registry includes contractors’ names, businesses, aliases, addresses and the reason they’re listed.

    Cortese’s entry includes the Tool Time Construction Group, his addresses, and states he was first listed in June of 2023 — nearly two years before the Salentinos hired him.

    [Consumer Affairs] Commissioner Wayne Rogers told Newsday that the agency does have a fund to reimburse homeowners up to $5,000 when licensed contractors do poor work. But there’s a catch — the contractor must be licensed.

    "If they’re not licensed, there’s nothing we can do," he said.

    Since Cortese is unlicensed, the Salentino family is ineligible for that fund.

    In the meantime, they remain in their camper while a new contractor tries to complete the home. But the family is facing new delays and higher costs as that company undoes Cortese’s work. Suffolk County police are investigating.

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    How to avoid falling victim to scam contractors

    Stories like the Salentino family’s are all too common — and unfortunately, legal protections can be limited, especially when unlicensed contractors are involved. Without access to the Consumer Affairs fund, the family’s only remaining option may be civil court, which is costly and time-consuming.

    If you’re in a similar situation, here are some steps you can take:

    • File a complaint with your local Consumer Affairs department or licensing agency.
    • Document everything: Save contracts, receipts, photos and any communications with the contractor.
    • Report suspected fraud to police, especially if you believe money was taken with no intent to complete the job.
    • Consult with a lawyer if the financial loss is significant.
    • Check for local recovery funds, which some counties or state agencies offer for licensed contractor failures.

    The best protection, though, starts before you make any payments. Here’s how to safeguard yourself:

    • Verify their license: In New York, contractors must be licensed through the county. Suffolk County has a searchable public registry.
    • Check the “Wall of Shame” or similar databases that track unlicensed or fraudulent contractors.
    • Read online reviews: Look at Google, company websites and forums. Search the business name for complaints.
    • Avoid large upfront payments: Reputable contractors typically ask for a deposit, with additional payments tied to project milestones.
    • Get everything in writing: A contract should include a timeline, materials list and payment schedule.

    With their savings drained and their home unfinished, the Salentino family is left trying to recover emotionally and financially. As the investigation continues, they hope their story prevents another family from seeing their dream fall apart.

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  • Michigan woman sold her drone on Facebook Marketplace only to find the buyer paid using fake bills — and when police tracked down the suspect, they found a cache of $100K in counterfeit cash

    A $100,000 counterfeit cash operation was blown open after a suspect purchased a drone on Facebook Marketplace and led Michigan State Police right to their doorstep.

    Lieutenant Rene Gonzalez of the Brighton post told WXYZ News that the investigation began with a victim who listed a drone for $800 online. When the buyer arrived at her home in late March and paid in cash, everything at first seemed normal.

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    “They met up at the victim’s residence,” Gonzalez said. “The transaction of the cash was completed, and the property was turned over to the suspect. The victim went back in the home and realized that the money that she was given was counterfeit. So, that’s when police were contacted.”

    Suspect linked to separate counterfeit investigations

    Police later identified the suspect and obtained a search warrant for a home in Brighton Township. On May 23, 2025, police recovered approximately $100,000 in fake cash as well as a laptop and multiple cell phones believed to be tied to the alleged counterfeiting scheme.

    Other law enforcement agencies in Livingston and Oakland counties are reportedly investigating similar cases involving the same suspect, raising concerns that this may be part of a broader operation.

    While the area is quiet — no more than a handful of houses line that part of the neighborhood, according to one resident — the volume of counterfeit money discovered is no small matter.

    According to the Federal Reserve, around $30 million in counterfeit bills — or roughly 1 in every 40,000 bills — are estimated to be in circulation throughout the country at any given time. That’s a notable improvement from 2006, when the estimate was closer to 1 in every 10,000.

    The drop is likely due to enhanced anti-counterfeiting measures in U.S. currency. However, scammers continue to find ways to exploit cash-based transactions, especially peer-to-peer sales on platforms such as Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist or OfferUp.

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    How to protect yourself from counterfeit cash

    Gonzalez said these kinds of scams are surprisingly common and offered several practical tips for anyone doing in-person cash transactions:

    • Use a counterfeit detection pen: These pens, which are widely available online and in office supply stores, leave a gold or yellow mark on real bills and a dark mark on fakes.
    • Check the feel of the cash: Real currency has a distinct texture and raised ink, especially on the numbers and portrait.
    • Look for a security thread: U.S. bills have a thin embedded strip that glows under UV light and identifies the bill’s denomination.
    • Check for watermarks: Most bills have a watermark of the portrait that is visible when held up to light. This can help you spot fake bills.
    • Verify serial numbers: Counterfeiters often print the same serial number across multiple bills. Double-check for duplicates.

    The Secret Service also offers a detailed guide on how to spot counterfeit bills through its Know Your Money resource. It outlines the difference between denominations and security features, providing a list of what to look for on bills printed before the anti-counterfeiting measures came into effect in 2004.

    If you shop on Facebook Marketplace, Gonzalez says it’s essential to be careful. “There’s a lot of scammers out there, and Facebook is just another avenue for them to work off of.”

    To stay safe when selling online, consider meeting in a public, well-lit area — ideally at a designated police department transaction zone. Always inspect bills before handing over your item, and avoid accepting large amounts of cash that might make you a target for counterfeiters or thieves.

    But above all, listen to your gut. If something in the buyer’s language or behavior feels off, don’t agree to meet.

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