New audit flags more than $200,000 in spending by former LAFD union president

While Brad Pitt was busy at the F1 movie premiere, burglars broke into his Los Angeles home, climbing over his security fence and smashing a window to get inside. They ransacked the place, leaving "a real mess" and stealing some belongings before taking off.

Editor’s Note: Even A-list stars with high-security homes aren't immune to break-ins—this highlights how brazen burglars have become in upscale L.A. neighborhoods. It also raises questions about the effectiveness of security measures for high-profile properties when the owners are away. Plus, fans are left wondering what was taken and how Pitt is handling the invasion of privacy.

Japan has carried out the execution of a man convicted of a gruesome series of murders—he killed and dismembered nine people. The death penalty, which remains legal and actively used in Japan, was applied here in a case that shocked the country due to its extreme brutality.

Editor’s Note: This story highlights Japan's continued use of the death penalty, a practice that's increasingly rare among developed nations. The severity of the crimes makes it a polarizing case—some will see it as justice, while others question whether state-sanctioned executions align with modern human rights standards. It also raises uncomfortable questions about how societies deal with irredeemable violence.

California has started easing lockdowns at some of its prisons after a recent spike in violence led to restrictions at 21 facilities. While some inmates are regaining movement and privileges, others remain under tight controls as officials continue to monitor safety risks.

Editor’s Note: Prison conditions are a barometer of broader safety and policy challenges—when violence spikes, lockdowns disrupt rehabilitation efforts and family connections. This partial lifting suggests cautious progress, but ongoing restrictions remind us that systemic issues in corrections aren’t easily solved. For families of inmates and advocates, it’s a mixed signal: some relief, but not yet resolution.

The US and China have struck a deal to speed up shipments of rare earth minerals—critical for everything from smartphones to military tech—to the US. In exchange, the White House says it’ll drop some retaliatory trade measures. It’s a small but meaningful step as both sides try to unwind their costly trade war.

Editor’s Note: Rare earths are the invisible backbone of modern tech, and China controls most of the global supply. This deal hints at thawing tensions, but it’s more of a band-aid than a cure. For businesses and consumers, it could mean fewer disruptions (and maybe cheaper gadgets), but the bigger trade war issues aren’t solved yet.

Real Madrid cruised to a 3-0 victory over Red Bull Salzburg in the Club World Cup, with standout performances from Jude Bellingham and Vinícius Júnior—the latter scoring a goal and notching an assist. The win secures their spot as group winners, dodging a tough matchup against Manchester City in the next round and instead setting up a clash with Juventus.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just another win—it’s a statement. Madrid’s young stars are stepping up, and avoiding a showdown with Man City early on could be a huge advantage. For fans, it’s a sign that the team’s blend of veteran savvy and rising talent might just click under Xabi Alonso’s leadership. Plus, who doesn’t love watching Vinícius light up the pitch?