A federal jury in Fresno, California, convicted yesterday former Sanger, California, Police Department officer J. DeShawn Torrence, 42, of eight counts of deprivation of constitutional rights under color of law for sexually assaulting four women whom he encountered during the course of his official duties. The jury found that the offenses included kidnapping, aggravated sexual abuse, and attempted aggravated sexual abuse, and caused bodily injury.
“Law enforcement officers are entrusted with great power to protect the public and keep them safe from harm. This officer’s crimes were an egregious breach of that trust and an appalling abuse of power, as he repeatedly preyed on the women in his community and violated their civil rights,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith for the Eastern District of California. “We stand ready to investigate and prosecute such crimes with all the tools we have available.”
“The FBI Sacramento Field Office is grateful to the brave victims who came forward and trusted us to investigate the allegations of sexual abuse at the hands of a police officer,” said Special Agent in Charge Sid Patel of the FBI Sacramento Field Office. “The FBI is deeply committed to working with our partners to thoroughly investigate such cases to protect the American people and preserve public trust in law enforcement.”
The evidence at trial proved that Torrence sexually assaulted four women. He kidnapped a 21-year-old woman who was walking to a store to buy groceries for her young children, drove her outside of town in his police car, and sexually assaulted her at an isolated dead end. Torrence forcibly raped a second victim, a 67-year-old woman, after following her into her home during a DUI investigation. With a third victim, Torrence showed up at her door in his police uniform after midnight, entered her apartment, pinned her against the kitchen counter, and sexually assaulted her. Torrence showed up multiple times at the home of a fourth victim, a domestic violence victim, supposedly to investigate a prior domestic violence incident. During those follow up visits, Torrence forced the victim to expose sensitive parts of her body for no legitimate reason, and he sexually assaulted her. The jury also heard testimony that Torrence sexually assaulted a fifth woman while acting in his capacity as a police officer.
Five of the counts each carry a maximum penalty of life in prison and a $250,000 fine. The three remaining counts each carry a maximum penalty of one year in prison and a fine of up to $100,000. Torrence is scheduled to be sentenced on May 7.
Deputy Assistant Attorney General Kathleen Wolfe of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division made the announcement.
The FBI Sacramento Field Office investigated the case, with assistance from the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office.
Special Litigation Counsel Michael J. Songer of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen Escobar for the Eastern District of California are prosecuting the case.
Work to create the city’s second sustainable transport hub is underway, giving residents greater choice when deciding how to travel around their local community.
Following the success of the Six Streets mobility hub which was launched in March 2023, work has started at Nottingham Road in Chaddesden, next to the busy shopping precinct.
Mobility hubs make it easier for people to choose alternative ways to get to local amenities. These include sustainable travel, such as electric vehicles (EV) and car share clubs, or active travel like walking and cycling. The hubs are continually monitored which helps the Council learn more about the area’s transport needs and demand for the different elements of the hub
Electric Vehicle (EV) charging and dedicated EV parking
An interactive information totem with live travel updates
A new bench and planter to enhance biodiversity
A covered cycle shelter with space to store ten bicycles and a permanent bicycle pump.
Work to create the mobility hub will also enhance the look and feel of the area through the planting of additional trees and the relining of the car park. The western end of the precinct will also be resurfaced with new flexible porous surfacing to replace damage caused by existing trees. The new surfacing will have resistance to movement caused by root growth.
Councillor Carmel Swan, Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Transport and Sustainability said:
We’ve been working hard to give our communities greater choice when deciding how to travel around the city.
These mobility hubs have been in development for some time so it’s exciting to see work get underway in Chaddesden. We’ve taken the time to learn from previous schemes and listen to local residents and businesses and are confident that this hub will become a welcome addition to the Chaddesden community, further enhancing our ever-growing network of active and sustainable travel choices.
The mobility hubs are funded by the Department for Transport (DFT)’s Future Transport Zones Fund, which was awarded to Derby City Council to trial new and exciting developments in transport.
Residents who would like to know more about the mobility hubs can get in touch with the Future Transport Zones team by emailing traffic.management@derby.gov.uk.
New funding is available to help tree-fruit growers prepare their orchards for extreme weather so people can continue to enjoy the B.C. peaches, cherries and apples that so many farming families and communities depend on.
“Last summer, British Columbians saw almost no local cherries available and missed out on having delicious Okanagan peaches to enjoy,” said Lana Popham, Minister of Agriculture and Food. “We know these climate impacts will continue, which is why we’re helping growers with a new program so their crops and businesses become more resilient in the face of increasingly challenging growing conditions.”
The new $5-million Tree Fruit Climate Resiliency program will help fund things such as protective covers, energy-efficient heaters and wind machines to help during periods of extreme cold, as well as canopy sprinklers and shade protection to help ward off the effects of extreme heat. The program also is open to applications for innovative projects to support industry resiliency.
“The Okanagan is home to B.C.’s iconic tree-fruit sector and through my conversations with growers, I know how hard it has been for them to deal with the effects of extreme heat and extreme cold,” said Harwinder Sandhu, parliamentary secretary for agriculture and MLA for Vernon-Lumby. “Climate change is a real challenge for our farming communities and this new program will help growers with projects and equipment that support their farms’ profitability, resiliency and sustainable food production for the years ahead.”
Multiple growers may also jointly apply for a project that benefits more than one producer, such as a wind machine that could be used on multiple properties.
“As one of B.C.’s largest cherry producers, we are seeing an increasingly volatile climate stretching the ability of growers to adapt,” said David Geen, CEO of Jealous Fruits Ltd. “Climate mitigation strategies, such as frost-control materials, installation of wind machines, and researching and developing hardier genetics and varieties can all contribute to a more stable cherry industry. It is great that the B.C. government is listening to grower concerns and providing funding for these industry endeavours.”
The program was developed with input from the B.C.Fruit Growers Association and the B.C. Cherry Association. The program was announced in August 2024 as one part of government’s efforts to help tree-fruit growers through challenges faced by their industry.
“We greatly appreciate the B.C. government’s commitment to supporting tree-fruit growers with the new $5-million Tree Fruit Climate Resiliency program. This funding is a significant step toward helping us prepare our orchards for the challenges posed by extreme weather, ensuring that families and communities can continue to enjoy our locally grown peaches, cherries, and apples,” said Deep Brar, vice-president, B.C. Fruit Growers’ Association, and a tree-fruit grower. “The climate has been exceptionally tough on our growers for the past few years, with devastating impacts from heat domes and cold snaps. We look forward to working closely with the government and other stakeholders to ensure the tree fruit industry in British Columbia remains strong and sustainable for generations to come.”
Quick Facts:
The $5-million program will provide 80% cost-share funding for eligible projects up to a maximum of $100,000 per farm business.
Applications are being accepted and will continue until funds are fully committed.
Ministry of Agriculture and Food staff are available to answer questions regarding eligible activities, costs and/or the application process.
Applicants can contact AgriServiceBC@gov.bc.ca with questions about the program or to receive support in developing their applications.
The program builds on the extreme-weather-preparedness program and offers specific support to tree-fruit producers following several years of extreme weather that severely affected peach, pear, plum, cherry and apple producers.
Learn More:
Program and application information are available here: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/industry/agriculture-seafood/programs/tree-fruit-climate-resiliency-program
Additional support for B.C. Fruit growers was announced in August: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2024AF0035-001295
Decommissioned vessel will move to Everett, become offices and warehouse
SEATTLE – The Elwha is going to a good home. Everett Ship Repair, a maintenance partner of Washington State Ferries, has purchased Elwha for $100,000.
A Western Towboat Co. tug Mariner, supplied by the new owner, is scheduled to arrive at the Bainbridge Island Ferry Terminal at 9 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 30, and begin the process of moving Elwha. Track Mariner’s progress in real time using MarineTraffic.
“The Elwha has been part of Washington State Ferry history since 1968, and we’re excited to see one of our ferries with so much history and memories for millions of passengers is being repurposed locally. It won’t be the Elwha we’ve all come to know and appreciate but I’m confident it’s in good hands with a local shipyard,” said WSF Assistant Secretary Steve Nevey.
Everett Ship Repair plans to modify and convert a ferry to a floating office and warehouse space at its shipyard.
The 144-car Elwha was one of four Super-class ferries built in the mid-1960s. Elwha mainly served the Anacortes/Friday Harbor/Sidney, British Columbia route before being retired April 8, 2020. Two super-class ferries, Kaleetan and Yakima, are still in service.
WSF hopes to sell and transfer two remaining retired boats, Klahowya and Hyak, to free more dock space at its Eagle Harbor Maintenance Facility for planned and unplanned maintenance on its current fleet.
WSF, a division of the Washington State Department of Transportation, is the largest ferry system in the U.S. and safely and efficiently carries tens of millions of people a year through some of the most majestic scenery in the world. For the latest service updates, sign up for rider alerts and track each ferry using the real-time map online.
BIRMINGHAM, United Kingdom, Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — DDB Miner, a leading innovator in cloud mining technology, is revolutionizing the cryptocurrency mining industry by offering Dogecoin (DOGE) enthusiasts a seamless and highly profitable way to generate passive income from home. With cutting-edge mining infrastructure powered entirely by renewable energy, DDB Miner provides an accessible and sustainable cloud mining solution.
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SUNRISE, Fla. – Navy Chief Information Officer (CHINFO) Rear Adm. Ryan Perry, a Fort Lauderdale native, will administer the oath of enlistment to five Broward County residents during the Florida Panthers game against the L.A. Kings on January 29, 2025, at Amerant Bank Arena.
“They jumped at the opportunity,” said Electronics Technician (Nuclear) 2nd Class Robert Logozzo, attached to Navy Talent Acquisition Group Miami, who will accompany the future Sailors. “They recognized it as a once-in-a-lifetime chance and are excited to create lasting memories as they make life-changing decisions. The community’s support is truly appreciated.”
The ceremony, set to take place before the pregame activities, is part of Perry’s ongoing visit to his hometown. So far, his engagement has included meetings with members of legislature and non-profit organizations. The trip, which runs through January 30th, is focused on raising Navy awareness, promoting its 250th anniversary, and supporting local recruiting efforts.
NTAG Miami has 38 recruiting locations throughout South Florida, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands, with a shared mission to recruit the highest caliber Sailors to meet the needs of the fleet.
Don’t know what Navy Sailors do? Check out navy.com/careers-benefits/careers to explore more about the 150+ jobs they do!
Landsbankinn’s profit in 2024 was ISK 37.5 billion after taxes, as compared with ISK 33.2 billion the previous year.
Return on equity (ROE) in 2024 was 12.1%, compared with 11.6% in 2023.
Profit in the fourth quarter of 2024 was ISK 10.6 billion and return on equity 13.3%.
The Board of Directors intends to propose that the Annual General Meeting approve a dividend payment in the amount of nearly ISK 19 billion for the year 2024, corresponding to around 50% of the year’s profit.
Total taxes paid by the Bank, both income tax and a special tax on financial undertakings, amounted to ISK 17.2 billion.
Operating expenses increase in line with price levels yet the Bank’s cost-income ratio has never been lower, or 32.4%.
Lending grew by ISK 177 billion during the year, or 10.8%. Customer deposits increased by ISK 180 billion, or 17,2%, at the same time.
Increased activity and new services contributed to growing commission income, with net fee and commission income increasing by 2.3%.
Net interest margin as a ratio of average asset position was 2.7% in 2024 compared to 3.0% for 2023. The net interest margin of domestic households was 2.1%.
Use of Landsbankinn’s app continued to grow and surveys show that users are very satisfied with it. Customers who invest their under Smart Savings in the app grew by 39% in 2024, meaning that around 59,000 customers now gain the best interest terms offered on a non-indexed account.
Net credit impairment of financial assets was negative by ISK 2.8 billion, with ISK 2.7 billion thereof attributable to natural disaster on the Reykjanes peninsula.
The capital ratio at year end was 24.3%. The Financial Supervisory Authority (FSA) of the Central Bank of Iceland sets Landsbankinn’s total capital requirement at 20.4%.
Today, the Bank publishes detailed sustainability information, including calculation of the carbon footprint of its credit portfolio, which has decreased by 20% from the reference year, 2019.
In 2024, 57.7% of the Bank’s new funding was green and a total of 61.3% of non-domestic funding is green.
In September, the FSA published the results of its assessment, finding that Landsbankinn is eligible to control a qualifying holding in TM tryggingar hf. (TM). The conclusion of the Icelandic Competition Authority in the same case is pending.
The Pillar III risk report for 2024 is published alongside the annual financial statements.
Landsbankinn’s Annual & Sustainability Report will be published 13 February 2025.
Lilja Björk Einarsdóttir, CEO of Landsbankinn:
“Landsbankinn achieved all of its main objectives in 2024, whether related to customer service, financial performance or operations. Profit amounted to ISK 10.6 billion in the fourth quarter and ISK 37.5 billion for the full year. Annualised return on equity was 12.1%. The fourth quarter was one of the strongest in the Bank’s history.
The Bank’s strong performance is built on solid foundations. Over the past ten years, the Bank’s total assets have grown by ISK 1,083 billion and equity by ISK 74 billion, alongside total dividend payments to shareholders amounting to ISK 192 billion. Operating expenses have remained stable, the number of full-time positions has decreased in tandem with technological advancements and the ratio of operating expenses to average total assets – a common measure of bank efficiency – has never been lower. As a result, the Bank’s competitiveness and strength have increased, enabling it to better support value creation and investments. The net interest margin has declined between periods, and the Bank is positioned to offer more favourable terms while still maintaining acceptable profitability.
The Bank’s strong financial position benefits society by increasing lending capacity. Total loan growth for the year amounted to ISK 177 billion, with around 60% of this increase from corporate lending. Landsbankinn remains the largest lender to the construction industry and has maintained a strong position in lending to fisheries, despite intense competition from foreign financial institutions, which can offer better terms due to greater economies of scale and lower taxes. Our focus on improving services for small and medium-sized enterprises has yielded strong results and we see many opportunities in this market. Demand for the Bank’s mortgage loans exceeded expectations, clearly indicating that borrowers are seeking competitive terms, fast service, and high-quality customer support. When the fixed interest rate period ended for customers who had fixed rates when they were at their lowest, we personally called each one to offer advice and go over the available options.
The increase in lending is backed by strong financing, not least growing customer deposits, which increased by ISK 180 billion over the year. Competitive rates and first-rate digital services have played a key role in this development. Throughout the year, the number of customers using the Bank’s Smart Savings in the app grew by 39%, allowing them to benefit from the best available rates on unrestricted accounts. Currently, around 59,000 individuals use this simple and favourable savings solution. Funding on both international and domestic capital markets was also successful. A noteworthy milestone was the issuance of senior non-preferred bonds, the first-ever issuance of its kind by an Icelandic bank. The success of bond issuances confirms the Bank’s strong financial position, which was also reflected in an upgrade in its credit rating. We believe that all conditions are in place for further improvements in the credit rating over the coming 1-2 years.
The Bank’s net interest margin declined during the year, reflecting the lower interest rate environment and there was a slight decrease in net interest income. Fee and commission income grew, particularly due to strong performance in acquiring services, where the Bank has firmly established its position. In 2024, 757 new businesses joined our acquiring services, including several of the country’s largest retail companies. The payment acquiring service has expanded the Bank’s service offering, boosted customer satisfaction, and created new growth opportunities in the corporate market: Nearly 40% of businesses that joined the service had no prior banking relationship with us.
Similarly, the Bank’s acquisition of TM presents significant growth opportunities, both on the corporate and retail side. We believe that the integration of banking and insurance services will be beneficial for customers, cost-efficient and full of potential, as evidenced by the success of similar models across Europe. At the same time, the acquisition will diversify revenue streams and support long-term profitability. The Bank’s strategic focus in recent years, providing outstanding service across Iceland both on-site and through leading digital solutions, including a top-tier app, creates exciting opportunities for both the Bank and TM.
One of the most significant events on the Icelandic market last year was JBT’s acquisition of Marel. Landsbankinn has long held an indirect ownership stake in Marel through Eyrir Invest, dating back to Eyrir’s refinancing in 2009. The value of this stake in Eyrir has fluctuated significantly over the years, at times impacting the Bank’s financial results considerably. Overall, the Bank’s involvement with Marel and Eyrir has been successful.
The vast majority of our customers use Landsbankinn’s app for their banking needs. The app is intuitive, offering unique features not available elsewhere and user satisfaction surveys indicate high approval. We are committed to continuous improvement, having released 33 app updates last year. Alongside our focus on development of the app and other digital innovation, we remain dedicated to the human element in customer service. We operate 35 branches and outlets across Iceland and this year we placed even greater emphasis on enabling employees all over the country to work on tasks that are not limited to geographic location. The results have been undeniably positive, reflected in shorter processing and wait times, as well as higher employee satisfaction, with staff appreciating the diverse and challenging work opportunities. Landsbankinn is a trusted bank for a successful future and its performance in recent years proves that with a dedicated and ambitious team, anything is possible.”
Quarterly financial information as of December 31, 2024 IFRS – Regulated information – Not audited
Cegedim’s revenue grew 6.3% in 2024
Full year revenue rose 4.7% like for like to €654.5 million
Fourth quarter revenue grew 5.9% like for like to €178.7 million
All operating divisions contributed to growth in the fourth quarter
Boulogne-Billancourt, France, January 30, 2025, after the market close
Revenue
Fourth quarter
Change Q4 2024 / 2023
in millions of euros
2024
2023
reclassified(1)
Reclassification(1)
2023
Reported
Reported
vs. reclassified(1)
Like for like(2)(3)
vs. reclassified(1)
Software & Services
80.1
75.7
(8.7)
84.4
+5.8%
+2.8%
Flow
27.0
24.2
(0.6)
24.8
+12.0%
+11.7%
Data & Marketing
38.4
35.8
0.0
35.8
+7.1%
+7.1%
BPO
21.2
19.6
0.0
19.6
+7.8%
+7.8%
Cloud & Support
12.0
11.3
+9.3
2.0
+6.2%
+6.2%
Cegedim
178.7
166.6
0.0
166.6
+7.2%
+5.9%
Full year
Change FY 2024 / 2023
in millions of euros
2024
2023
reclassified(1)
Reclassification(1)
2023
Reported
Reported
vs. reclassified(1)
Like for like(2)(4)
vs. reclassified(1)
Software & Services
307.8
302.3
(24.3)
326.6
+1.8%
(1.2)%
Flow
100.3
93.4
(2.5)
95.9
+7.3%
+7.2%
Data & Marketing
125.9
114.9
0.0
114.9
+9.6%
+9.6%
BPO
82.7
71.5
0.0
71.5
+15.8%
+15.8%
Cloud & Support
37.8
33.9
+26.8
7.1
+11.3%
+11.3%
Cegedim
654.5
616.0
0.0
616.0
+6.3%
+4.7%
Cegedim’s consolidated fourth quarter 2024 revenues rose to €178.7 million, up 7.2% as reported and 5.9% like for like(2) compared with the same period in 2023. All operating divisions contributed to like for like growth in the fourth quarter.
Over the full year, revenues rose 6.3% as reported and 4.7% like for like compared with 2023. Marketing, health insurance, HR, and cloud businesses delivered the most solid growth over the full year. As expected, the Software & Services division felt the impact of comparisons with Ségur public health investment spending in 2023 and a slowdown in international sales because the Group decided to refocus its UK doctor software activities on Scotland, and then later decided to voluntarily place that business under administration.
Analysis of business trends by division
Software & Services
Software & Services
Fourth quarter
Change Q4 2024 / 2023
Full year
Change FY 2024 / 2023
in millions of euros
2024
2023
Reclassified(3)
Reported
vs. reclassified(1)
Like for like(2)
vs. reclassified(1)
2024
2023
reclassified(1)
Reported
vs. reclassified(1)
Like for like(2)
vs. reclassified(1)
Cegedim Santé
21.3
18.1
+17.2%
+1.8%
80.2
76.5
+4.8%
(7.1)%
Insurance, HR, Pharmacies, and other services
47.2
44.9
+5.1%
+5.1%
176.7
173.3
+2.0%
+1.9%
International businesses
11.6
12.7
(8.2)%
(3.5)%
50.9
52.5
(3.0)%
(3.0)%
Software & Services
80.1
75.7
+5.8%
+2.8%
307.8
302.3
+1.8%
(1.2)%
Revenues at Cegedim Santé grew 17.2% as reported in the fourth quarter and 1.8% like for like. Reported growth over the full year came to 4.8%, but like-for-like revenues fell 7.1% due to the absence of Ségur public health investments, which generated revenue of €4.7 million in 2023. Reported growth includes Visiodent from March 1, 2024. The new subsidiary has already started marketing Group products like the Maiia appointment scheduling app and the Claude Bernard database to its clients, but those sales are not reflected in like-for-like growth.
Others French subsidiaries saw reported revenue growth of 5.1% in the fourth quarter and 2% over the full year (1.9% LFL; Phealing acquired in Q4 2023). Over both the fourth quarter and the full year, the division was propelled by growth at the insurance businesses, thanks to robust project-based sales, and by HR, which is still getting a boost from its client diversification strategy. On the other hand, sales to pharmacies were down substantially—as they were at some of the competitors. This was partly because equipment sales slowed after many pharmacies updated their equipment in 2023. In addition, the pharmacy software business took in more than €2 million in Ségur public health investment revenues in 2023, creating a tough comparison.
Internationally, revenues from software sales to UK doctors declined, as expected, following the Group’s decision early in the year to refocus the activity on Scotland. Unfortunately, the market proved too sluggish for this plan to succeed. On December 10, the Group decided to deconsolidate this subsidiary after announcing it would be voluntarily placed under administration. That move aggravated the drop in reported revenues in the fourth quarter, which came to 8.2%.
Flow
Fourth quarter
Change Q4 2024 / 2023
Full year
Change FY 2024 / 2023
in millions of euros
2024
2023
reclassified(1)
Reported
vs. reclassified(1)
Like for like(2)
vs. reclassified(1)
2024
2023
reclassified(1)
Reported
vs. reclassified(1)
Like for like(2)
vs. reclassified(1)
e-business
15.0
14.0
+7.1%
+6.7%
58.5
55.4
+5.6%
+5.3%
Third-party payer
12.0
10.2
+18.7%
+18.7%
41.8
38.0
+9.9%
+9.9%
Flow
27.0
24.2
+12.0%
+11.7%
100.3
93.4
+7.3%
+7.2%
Fourth-quarter growth in e-business, e-invoicing, and digitized data exchanges was 7.1%. The boost came from a rebound in Invoicing & Purchasing in France and a continued surge at the Healthcare Flow segment, which started early in the year, owing to dynamic new offerings for hospitals that are designed to make their drug purchasing secure. Growth over the full year was a solid 5.6%.
The digital data flow business dealing with reimbursement of healthcare payments in France (Third-party payer) experienced 18.7% growth in Q4. It was boosted by strong growth in demand for its fraud and long-term illness detection offerings. Over the full year, this trend more than offset the transfer of revenue attributable to the Allianz contract—now attributed to the BPO business—and allowed the unit to post growth of 9.9%.
Data & Marketing
Data & Marketing
Fourth quarter
Change Q4 2024 / 2023
Full year
Change FY 2024 / 2023
in millions of euros
2024
2023
reclassified(1)
Reported
vs. reclassified(1)
Like for like(2)
vs. reclassified(1)
2024
2023
reclassified(1)
Reported
vs. reclassified(1)
Like for like(2)
vs. reclassified(1)
Data
22.4
21.0
+6.3%
+6.3%
65.5
64.5
+1.6%
+1.6%
Marketing
16.0
14.8
+8.2%
+8.2%
60.4
50.4
+19.9%
+19.9%
Data & Marketing
38.4
35.8
+7.1%
+7.1%
125.9
114.9
+9.6%
+9.6%
Data businesses posted 6.3% yoy growth in the fourth quarter, cementing an improvement over the second half, particularly in France. Thanks to its strong presence on the ground and its agility in adapting to customer demands, the Data business has been able to post positive growth of 1.6% in 2024, following a remarkable year in 2023.
The Marketing segment had a solid fourth quarter, up 8.2%, and a record year, with growth of 19.9%. The performance showed the soundness of its phygital media strategy for pharmacies and was bolstered by special ad campaigns during the Olympics.
BPO
Fourth quarter
Change Q4 2024 / 2023
Full year
Change FY 2024 / 2023
in millions of euros
2024
2023
Reclassified(4)
Reported
vs. reclassified(1)
Like for like(2)
vs. reclassified(1)
2024
2023
reclassified(1)
Reported
vs. reclassified(1)
Like for like(2)
vs. reclassified
Insurance BPO
15.4
14.0
+9.9%
+9.9%
60.0
49.9
+20.2%
+20.2%
Business Services BPO
5.8
5.6
+2.8%
+2.8%
22.7
21.6
+5.5%
+5.5%
BPO
21.2
19.6
+7.8%
+7.8%
82.7
71.5
+15.8%
+15.8%
The Insurance BPO business grew by 9.9% over the fourth quarter, chiefly owing to its overflow business, which has been flourishing since the start of the year. Growth over the full year amounted to 20.2%, partly thanks to a favorable comparison stemming from the April 1, 2023, launch of the Allianz contract.
Business Services BPO (HR and digitalization) reported growth of 2.8% in the fourth quarter and 5.5% over the full year on the back of a popular compliance offering and new clients.
Cloud & Support
Cloud & Support
Fourth quarter
Change Q4 2024 / 2023
Full year
Change FY 2024 / 2023
in millions of euros
2024
2023
reclassified(1)
Reported
vs. reclassified(1)
Like for like(2)
vs. reclassified(1)
2024
2023
reclassified(1)
Reported
vs. reclassified(1)
Like for like(2)
vs. reclassified(1)
Cloud & Support
12.0
11.3
+6.2%
+6.2%
37.8
33.9
+11.3%
+11.3%
The Cloud & Support division’s trajectory continued over the fourth quarter, with growth of 6.2% bringing FY growth to 11.3%. The progress reflects our expanded range of sovereign cloud-backed products and services, which earned the ANSSI security visa for SecNumCloud certification.
Highlights
Apart from the items cited below, to the best of the company’s knowledge, there were no events or changes during Q4 2024 that would materially alter the Group’s financial situation.
On December 10, 2024, Cegedim announced that it had voluntarily placed its UK subsidiary—INPS, which sells software for doctors—under administration.
Significant transactions and events post December 31, 2024 To the best of the company’s knowledge, there were no post-closing events or changes after December 31, 2024, that would materially alter the Group’s financial situation.
Outlook
Like-for-like revenue growth(1) in 2024 was just below the bottom of the announced 5% to 8% range compared with 2023. Had the Group not refocused INPS on Scotland and then closed it later in the year, it would have met the 5% target. This performance is unlikely to jeopardize the outlook for recurring operating income, which is expected to continue improving. That said, the deconsolidation of INPS is likely to result in significant non-cash adjustments. These statements are not forecasts and are based on financial information that has not yet been audited.
—————
WEBCAST ON JANUARY 30, 2025 AT 6:15 PM (PARIS TIME)
Disclaimer This press release is available in French and in English. In the event of any difference between the two versions, the original French version takes precedence. It was sent to Cegedim’s authorized distributor on January 30, 2025, no earlier than 5:45 pm Paris time. The figures cited in this press release include guidance on Cegedim’s future financial performance targets. This forward-looking information is based on the opinions and assumptions of the Group’s senior management at the time this press release is issued and naturally entails risks and uncertainty. For more information on the risks facing Cegedim, please refer to Chapter 7, “Risk management”, section 7.2, “Risk factors and insurance”, and Chapter 3, “Overview of the financial year”, section 3.6, “Outlook”, of the 2023 Universal Registration Document filled with the AMF on April 3, 2024, under number D.24-0233.
About Cegedim: Founded in 1969, Cegedim is an innovative technology and services group in the field of digital data flow management for healthcare ecosystems and B2B, and a business software publisher for healthcare and insurance professionals. Cegedim employs nearly 6,700 people in more than 10 countries and generated revenue of over €654 million in 2024. Cegedim SA is listed in Paris (EURONEXT: CGM). To learn more please visit: www.cegedim.fr And follow Cegedim on X: @CegedimGroup, LinkedIn, and Facebook.
Aude Balleydier Cegedim Media Relations and Communications Manager
Revenue breakdown by geographic zone, currency, and division at December 31, 2024
as a % of consolidated revenues
Geographic zone
Currency
France
EMEA ex. France
Americas
Euro
GBP
Other
Software & Services
83.5%
16.4%
0.1%
86.9%
11.4%
1.7%
Flow
92.1%
7.9%
0.0%
94.6%
5.4%
0.0%
Data & Marketing
97.9%
2.1%
0.0%
98.1%
0.0%
1.9%
BPO
100.0%
0.0%
0.0%
100.0%
0.0%
0.0%
Cloud & Support
99.9%
0.1%
0.0%
100.0%
0.0%
0.0%
Cegedim Health Data UK
90.6%
9.3%
0.1%
92.2%
6.6%
1.2%
(1) As of January 1, 2024, our Cegedim Outsourcing and Audiprint subsidiaries—which were previously housed in the Software & Services division—as well as BSV—formerly of the Flow division—have been moved to the Cloud & Support division in order to capitalize on operating synergies between cloud activities and IT solutions integration. (2) At constant scope and exchange rates. (3) The positive currency impact of 0.2% was mainly due to the pound sterling. The positive scope effect of 1.1% was attributable to the first-time consolidation inCegedim’saccounts ofVisiodentstarting March 1, 2024. (4) The positive currency impact of 0.2% was mainly due to the pound sterling. The positive scope effect of 1.4% was attributable to the first-time consolidation inCegedim’saccounts ofVisiodentstarting March 1, 2024.
(1) 3To take advantage of synergies, Cegedim Outsourcing, Audiprint, and BSV have been reassigned to the Cloud & Support division. (2) At constant scope and exchange rates.
(1) 4To take advantage of synergies, Cegedim Outsourcing, Audiprint, and BSV have been reassigned to the Cloud & Support division. (2) At constant scope and exchange rates.
Headline: Introducing new Surface Copilot+ PCs for Business
As organizations look to the future, accessing and unlocking value through both the cloud and endpoints will become a cornerstone of every AI strategy. Combining the scalability of cloud compute with the efficiency of local AI compute through powerful Neural Processing Units (NPU) with a groundbreaking new category of PCs: Copilot+ PCs. These devices are built to deliver unparalleled performance and intelligence.
Today, we are excited to announce the latest additions to our Surface for Business Copilot+ PC family: Surface Pro and Surface Laptop, now available with the latest Intel Core Ultra processors (Series 2). Starting Feb. 18, business customers can choose between Intel and Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs from Surface, and experience the most advanced, intelligent and secure PCs available across both platforms.
In response to one of our top customer requests to provide more cellular connectivity options for mobile work, we are thrilled to share that for the first time, 5G will be coming to Surface Laptop for Business, available later in 2025[i]. This laptop has been redesigned from the ground up to exceed our customers’ expectations for a connected Windows 11 Copilot+ PC and is also equipped with Intel Core Ultra processors (Series 2).
To round out our business offerings, we are also excited to introduce the new Surface USB4 Dock, new experiences with Microsoft Teams Rooms on Surface Hub 3 and the public preview of Security Copilot in the Surface Management Portal.
New Surface Copilot+ PCs for Business
Customers are choosing Surface Copilot+ PCs today for the best in performance, battery life and security. Paired with Microsoft 365 Copilot[ii] and enhanced AI processing power, these devices transform the employee experience to amplify your team’s efficiency and creativity through Copilot+ PC experiences designed for work.
“At CES, we showcased Copilot+ PCs powered by Intel Core Ultra processors (Series 2) and partnered with Microsoft to ensure that it delivers exceptional performance, longer battery life and cutting-edge security for the Windows ecosystem. We’re excited to introduce new Surface for Business Copilot+ PCs and provide businesses with a wider range of AI-powered devices to enhance efficiency and productivity. Our partnership will continue to drive momentum in the category.” Jim Johnson, Senior Vice President and Interim General Manager of Intel’s Client Computing Group
Surface Laptop for Business with Intel Core Ultra processors (Series 2)
Available starting Feb. 18, 2025, starting at $1,499.99 (MSRP)
Customers choose Surface Laptop because it redefines the premium PC built for work, combining a sleek modern design with incredible performance and industry-leading security. It’s designed to strike the perfect balance between power and portability, maximizing productivity while being a device that employees are proud to carry and use.
The new Surface Laptop for Business is built with the latest Intel Core Ultra processors (Series 2), an incredible battery that lasts up to 22 hours[iii], anti-reflective displays with ultra-thin bezels, Wi-Fi 7[iv], more ports and an optional smart card reader[v].
Available in two sizes, the 13.8-inch display offers a larger viewing area than traditional 14-inch screens within a more compact frame, while the 15-inch version provides even more viewing space while remaining easy to carry.
This thin and compact design delivers on the critical fundamentals that businesses rely on. When compared to Surface Laptop 5, the new Surface Laptop delivers up to 26% faster performance for multi-tasking[vi], up to 2x faster graphics performance[vii], up to 3x the battery life when on Teams calls[viii] and can easily power new AI-powered experiences through the NPU.
The keyboard on Surface Laptop provides an exceptional typing experience, perfected for comfort, speed and sound with every keystroke. The large precision haptic touchpad delivers realistic feedback when tapped or clicked. Designed for inclusivity, the touchpad allows users to easily adjust pressure sensitivity and use intuitive touch gestures for easier navigation.
Advancements in laptop design support our customers’ sustainability goals, a critical factor when equipping a large workforce with new devices. The new Surface Laptop contains more recycled content than any other Surface device including 100% recycled rare earth metals in the magnets[ix] and featuring our first ever battery cell to make use of 100% recycled cobalt[x].
For the first time ever, we’re adding cellular connectivity to our Surface Laptop lineup. Surface Laptop 5G will be available later in 2025, enabling your team to work comfortably and productively from virtually anywhere. We’ll share more details on Surface Laptop 5G in the coming months.
The new Surface Laptop is a true business machine, designed to meet the needs of modern professionals and enhance productivity in any work environment.
Surface Pro for Business with Intel Core Ultra processors (Series 2)
Available starting Feb. 18, 2025, starting at $1,499.99 (MSRP)
Surface Pro is the go-to device for customers that are looking for a device that can do it all, offering powerful performance, incredible versatility and enterprise-grade security from Microsoft. It quickly adapts to your team’s needs, whether that is typing a report with a Surface Pro Keyboard[xi], taking notes with the Surface Slim Pen[xi] or using the AI-powered ultrawide camera to keep you in frame on Teams calls. With the versatile design of Surface Pro, it can replace the need to use a tablet and a laptop with one device that can give you the best of both.
The new Surface Pro is built with the latest Intel Core Ultra processors (Series 2), delivers up to 28% more performance[xii], up to 98% more graphics performance[vii] and up to 2x the battery life during Teams calls[xiii] compared to Surface Pro 9. It also features enhanced local AI processing power with an NPU to amplify your team’s intelligence, efficiency and creativity through Copilot+ PC experiences designed for work.
When paired with the Surface Pro Flex Keyboard[xi], Surface Pro transforms into a highly versatile Windows laptop. The keyboard can be used either attached or wirelessly, allowing users to adapt quickly and work efficiently in any environment, from the office to an airplane or train seat. This flexibility enables users to have a comfortable and premium typing experience that enhances productivity wherever they work.
The 13-inch PixelSense display extends the versatility of Surface Pro even further. It’s designed to be used easily with touch and pen input as a tablet or a laptop, and the anti-reflective and adaptive color technology helps users to clearly see the content on the screen in almost any lighting environment and reduces reflections by up to 50%. The new optional OLED display delivers new levels of peak brightness and immersive colors that improve readability in even fluorescent office lighting environments or even in direct sunlight.
Surface Pro also offers versatile and secure sign-in options. Customers can sign in with facial recognition with the built-in Windows Hello Camera or the built-in NFC reader with security keys like the YubiKey 5C NFC to securely get to work without using a password. Surface Pro is also certified for use with Imprivata Enterprise Access Management (EAM), enabling healthcare providers to tap their NFC-enabled badge or security key to quickly sign in and out. This enhances healthcare workflows and safeguards patient data by logging users off instantly, reduces errors by preventing clinicians from charting under the wrong profile, and increases productivity by providing fast and secure user switching.
Across industries – from retail to education – our customers call out the importance of sustainability in making device purchases, and Surface Pro is designed with those goals in mind. The enclosure is made with a minimum of 89% recycled content, including 100% recycled aluminum alloy and 100% recycled rare earth metals[xiv]. It is also designed for serviceability, with replaceable components such as the motherboard, battery, cameras and a removable SSD that can be accessed through an easy-to-open door behind the kickstand[xv].
Surface Pro is the perfect device for on the go productivity, delivering lightning-fast performance, AI-accelerated power, all in a thin, light and versatile package.
Secure by design and by default
In line with Microsoft’s Secure Future Initiative commitment, security is our top priority, and we’re intently focused on designing our products to be secure by design and by default. We continually raise the bar to deliver robust defense against the evolving threat landscape for both our customers and the entire Windows ecosystem.
Windows 11, our most secure operating system yet, dramatically reduces exposure to attack by enabling advanced security tools and technologies by design and by default. This protects against phishing, malware, ransomware and other evolving threats.
Beyond Windows, every layer of a Surface device, from the hardware to the cloud is maintained and protected by Microsoft. This gives customers ultimate control, proactive protection and peace of mind wherever and however they work. Our team constantly thinks about how malicious actors could threaten your business and seamlessly ensures you always have the latest through Windows Update, ensuring you and your teams remain protected and secure.
Copilot+ PCs are the most secure Windows PCs ever, with the Microsoft Pluton security processor enabled by default on all Copilot+ PCs. Pluton, a chip-to-cloud security technology designed by Microsoft and embedded by silicon partners directly into the CPU, ensures Zero Trust principles at the core. This design helps protect sensitive information such as passwords, user identities and encryption keys from potential attacks. It acts as a secure vault within the computer, ensuring that even if someone gains physical access to the device, they cannot easily steal critical data.
Pluton receives regular updates directly from Microsoft, ensuring it always has the latest security features and protections against evolving threats. Microsoft is also working across the Windows ecosystem to update the capabilities of Pluton by introducing the Key Storage Provider (KSP) on Intel Core Ultra (Series 2), Snapdragon X Series and AMD Ryzen AI 300 series processors. This will allow for more secure storage and management of cryptographic keys, further strengthening the overall security of the device, and we’ll share more details on this in the coming months.
This comprehensive approach ensures every layer of a Surface device is protected, providing a seamless and secure experience for users and peace of mind for IT professionals.
Learn more about what’s new with Microsoft Pluton on the Windows IT Pro Blog.
Unlocking AI productivity with Windows
These great new Surface Copilot+ PCs are part of an expanding ecosystem of Windows commercial solutions that serve every job, in every organization. We’re listening to our customers and providing them with more choice so that they can find a Copilot+ PC that fits every need.
At Ignite, we introduced several AI features that enhance workflows, and boost communication and collaboration by tapping into the NPU on Copilot+ PCs. One of these new experiences is the new and improved Windows Search experience[xvi]. It allows users to find files using associated words and phrases, without needing to remember exact file names or content for both local and active OneDrive for Business files. For example, users can find a document about sustainability by searching for “green presentation.” They can also search images based on their content, including text found in an image. Removing the need for precise keyword matching in file names or content can save valuable time, enabling users to intuitively search for files, information or settings in the ways that they can easily remember.
Windows, combined with Microsoft 365 and Surface devices, provides a powerful platform for businesses to securely boost productivity, simplify workflows and enhance collaboration. With tools like Windows Autopatch, Autopilot in Intune, and Windows Backup and Hotpatch, deploying and managing these new PCs securely has never been easier.
New Security Copilot in Surface Management Portal (Preview)
Available in public preview starting Feb. 24, 2025
Streamline the management of Surface devices within your organization with the Surface Management Portal in Microsoft Intune. This powerful tool provides IT admins with a centralized platform to monitor, manage and secure all Surface devices, ensuring they are always up-to-date and performing optimally. Capabilities like device health monitoring, warranty and servicing management help businesses maintain a secure and efficient IT environment, reducing downtime and enhancing productivity of their employees.
We are excited to share that later this month, customers will have access to Security Copilot in the Surface Management Portal. Copilot provides the power of generative AI in Intune to simplify and enhance the device management experience for IT admins.
With Copilot, IT admins can quickly search for and resolve specific device issues, summarize warranty information, and access support tickets and service orders related to their organization’s Surface devices. This reduces the time and effort needed for routine maintenance tasks, creating more time to focus on other initiatives. In addition, Copilot pulls contextually relevant data from your Intune-enrolled Surface devices along with public information into a single view, streamlining the management process and enhancing overall efficiency.
We’ve been in private preview with a select group of customers, allowing us to gather critical feedback and insights that have shaped the current experience. Starting Feb. 24, customers can join the public preview, and the insights and learnings we’ll gain can help us shape the future of the Surface Management Portal.
Learn more about Security Copilot in Surface Management Portal on the Surface IT Pro Blog.
New Surface USB4 Dock
Available starting Feb. 18, 2025, at $199.99 (MSRP)
Enhance your team’s workspace with the new Surface USB4 Dock, the essential dock for productivity and connectivity. Connect and power devices like the new Surface Pro and Surface Laptop with accessories via two USB-C, one USB-A, Ethernet and HDMI ports. This new dock delivers fast charging with the new Surface Pro and Surface Laptop with up to 65W power passthrough and enables fast data transfer of up to 40 Gbps. Dual 4K monitor support, via USB-C or HDMI transforms your workspace into a three-screen powerhouse.
New Surface Hub 3 experiences
Surface Hub 3 is the first-party Teams Rooms touch board. We’ve brought iconic Surface design together with the inclusive and collaborative Teams Rooms experiences that define the meeting space. It’s helped our customers create a consistent experience across Hub and other conference rooms and collaborative spaces, for both the teams meeting in those spaces and the IT administrators managing the technology.
Now, we’re partnering with Teams to bring new experiences to Surface Hub 3. Microsoft Edge on Surface Hub 3 will offer seamless access to websites, third-party web apps and personal content[xvii], with an easy-to-use home screen button for walk-up browsing. Edge will run in Kiosk Mode for privacy and security, and Edge sessions can be shared into Teams meetings.[xviii] General availability for Edge on Hub 3 is targeting Q3 2025.
Employees want the option to share content however is best for them – so we’re also adding Miracast support to Teams Rooms on Windows devices. Miracast makes it possible to wirelessly project content from a Surface PC to Surface Hub 3.
Learn more about the new experiences coming to Surface Hub 3 on the Surface IT Pro Blog.
Order today
With Windows 10 End-of-Support upcoming on Oct. 14, 2025, now is the time to transition your fleet from Windows 10 to Windows 11 with confidence. After providing 10 years of updates and support, Windows 10 PCs will no longer receive security or feature updates. Our focus is to help businesses and their employees stay protected and more productive by moving to Windows 11 PCs. Surface Copilot+ PCs are the ideal choice to modernize your business. They offer a powerful combination of hardware, software and unparalleled security, to support your business needs while future-proofing to take advantage of new Copilot+ PC experiences being released in the future.
As you trial and deploy Copilot+ PCs in your environment, consider Surface as your partner to unlock exclusive AI features to help drive bottom-line business results. With options for both Intel and Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs, Surface provides the flexibility to meet your specific business requirements. Order your Surface Copilot+ PCs today and experience the future of business productivity.
Visit Surface.com/Business to learn more, find a partner or order the new Surface Pro and new Surface Laptop directly from the Microsoft Store. When shopping at Microsoft.com, customers can take advantage of free shipping and an extended 60-day price protection and return window.
Footnotes: [i] Surface Laptop with 5G will be available later in 2025 and not available in all areas. eSIM and 5G support are also not available in all areas; compatibility and performance depend on carrier network, plan and other factors. See carrier for details and pricing
[ii] Copilot for Microsoft 365 sold separately and requires a qualifying volume license or subscription. Microsoft Copilot for Microsoft 365 | Microsoft 365.
[iii] Up to 22 hours of battery life based on local video playback test on Surface Laptop 15-inch, 7th Edition with Intel Core Ultra processors (Series 2). Based on local video playback test. Testing conducted by Microsoft in January 2025 using preproduction software and preproduction Surface Laptop 13.8-inch Intel Core Ultra 5 256GB, 16GB RAM devices and Surface Laptop 15-inch Intel Core Ultra 7 256GB, 16GB RAM devices. Testing consisted of full battery discharge during video playback of a .mov file through the Windows Media Player application in 1080p at 24 FPS. All settings were default except screen brightness set to 150 nits with Auto-brightness disabled. Wi-Fi was connected to a network. Battery life varies significantly with settings, usage and other factors.
[iv] 6GHz band not available in all regions.
[v] Integrated smart card reader available only on Surface Laptop 15-inch, 7th Edition with Intel Core Ultra processors (Series 2). See Surface.com/Business for more information.
[vi] Tested January 2025 using CineBench 2024 Multi-Core benchmark. Up to 26% faster comparing Laptop 13.8-inch with Intel Core Ultra 7 processors to Surface Laptop 5 13.5-inch with Intel Core i7. Up to 12% faster comparing Surface Laptop 15-inch with Intel Core Ultra 7 processors to Surface Laptop 5 15-inch with Intel Core i7.
[vii] Based on 3D Mark WildLife Extreme Unlimited performance testing conducted by Microsoft in January 2025.
[viii] Based on a Microsoft Teams 10-person video call test. Testing conducted by third-party lab in January 2025 using preproduction software and preproduction Surface Laptop 15-inch, 7th Edition Intel Core Ultra 7 266V, 16GB RAM, 256 GB and Surface Laptop 5 15-inch Intel Core i7-1265U, 16 GB RAM, 512 GB. Testing consisted of full battery discharge during a Microsoft Teams 10-person video call. All settings were default except screen brightness set to 150 nits with Auto-brightness disabled. Wi-Fi was connected to a network. Tested with Windows 11. Battery life varies significantly with settings, usage and other factors.
[ix] Enclosure includes A Cover, C Bucket, D Cover. 100% recycled aluminum alloy in A Cover, C Bucket and SIM Tray. 100% recycled rare earth metals in magnets. Based on validation performed by Underwriter Laboratories, Inc. using Environmental Claim Validation Procedure (ECVP) for Recycled Content, dated June 20, 2024.
[x] Contains 1.5% recycled cobalt, consisting of 100% recycled cobalt in the battery cell. Based on validation performed by Underwriter Laboratories, Inc. using Environmental Claim Validation Procedure (ECVP) for Recycled Content, UL ECVP 2809-2, Second Edition, dated June 20, 2024.
[xi] Surface Pro Keyboard, Surface Pro Flex Keyboard, Surface Slim Pen sold separately.
[xii] Based on Cinebench 2024 multithread performance testing conducted by Microsoft in January 2025.
[xiii] Based on a Microsoft Teams 10-person video call test. Testing conducted by third-party lab in January 2025 using preproduction software and preproduction Surface Pro, 11th Edition Intel Core Ultra 7 236V, 16GB RAM, 256 GB storage and a Surface Pro 9 with an i7-1225U processor, 16GB RAM and 256GB storage. Testing consisted of full battery discharge during a Microsoft Teams 10-person video call. All settings were default except screen brightness set to 150 nits with Auto-brightness disabled. Wi-Fi was connected to a network. Tested with Windows 11. Battery life varies significantly with settings, usage and other factors.
[xiv] Enclosure includes bucket and kickstand. 100% recycled aluminum alloy in bucket. 100% recycled rare earth metals in magnets. Based on validation performed by Underwriter Laboratories, Inc. using Environmental Claim Validation Procedure (ECVP) for Recycled Content, UL ECVP 2809-2, Second Edition, dated June 20, 2024.
[xv] Solid State Drive (SSD) Retention is only available on Microsoft Surface devices in which the SSD is marketed as removable per the Technical Specifications. Solid State Drive (SSD) Retention is included in both Extended Hardware Service Plus and Microsoft Complete for Business Plus and is also available as an Optional Add-on when purchasing Microsoft Extended Hardware Service and Microsoft Complete for Business. Devices returned to Microsoft with a missing Solid State Drive (SSD) are subject to a Solid State Drive (SSD) replacement fee unless the device is enrolled in the Drive (SSD) Retention offer.
[xvi] Releasing first to our Windows Insider community on Copilot+ PCs for select languages (Chinese, English, French, German, Japanese and Spanish) and file formats, starting early next year, before rolling out more broadly to our customers. See aka.ms/copilotpluspcs
[xvii] Software license required.
[xviii] Pre-release product shown; subject to change prior to commercial release.
There continues to be growing demand for affordable child-care spaces across Alberta. Alberta’s government continues to support growth in the child-care sector, through the licensing of new child-care programs and upgrading our current facilities.
Alberta’s government and the Government of Canada are investing $53 million over two years in the Building Blocks Capital Grant Program to encourage the creation of new child-care spaces. The funds will help Alberta’s child-care providers create more affordable, high-quality spaces where Alberta families need them most.
The grant will provide non-profit and public child-care providers the capital to build, expand, upgrade and make repairs to their existing facilities. These improvements must support the creation of new child-care spaces.
“The new Building Blocks grant will help achieve the Alberta government’s goal of creating 42,500 new child-care spaces by March 2026. This funding will help non-profit and public child-care providers make their programs more inclusive, create new child-care spaces and meet the diverse needs of their communities, while maintaining the high-quality care parents deserve and expect.”
“Every family deserves access to high-quality, affordable child care no matter where they live. Through the Building Blocks Capital Grant Program, we’re making it easier for non-profit and public providers to build, expand or improve their facilities and create new spots so that more families get off of waitlists and into child care close to home.”
Funding will prioritize the creation of new child-care spaces in high-need areas, such as areas with limited or no child-care options, or underserved communities and communities with barriers to access. Alberta’s rural and remote communities will be a top priority for funding.
“This $53-million investment is a significant step forward in meeting the growing need for high-quality, affordable and accessible child care across Alberta. This investment will help child-care providers create more spaces, improve their facilities and give families more options and support in communities that need it most.”
The Building Blocks program will offer two grant streams: major capital and minor capital projects.
Major capital grants: For projects that cost $500,000 or more and may include new construction of a child-care facility, building expansions, substantial upgrades and the purchase, assembly, installation and delivery of a modular building structure.
Minor capital grants: For projects that cost less than $500,000 and may include interior and exterior renovations, upgrades, repairs, refurbishment or improvements without changes to the structure in a new or existing building.
Alberta’s government will start accepting applications on Jan. 30 for the Building Blocks Capital Grant Program and eligibility requirements are available online.
This grant builds on the province’s December 2024 Inclusive Spaces Program Grant announcement, which incentivizes existing licensed child-care facilities to become more inclusive. The Inclusive Spaces Program Grant is open to all licensed providers – facilities, preschools and family day home agencies, and supports equipment, resources and minor renovations. Through these investments, programs can become more accessible, improve their quality and expand their operations.
Alberta’s government will continue to work with communities and child-care providers to support the creation of accessible and affordable spaces in every corner of the province.
Quick facts
Under the Canada-Alberta Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement, Alberta has committed to creating up to 68,700 child-care spaces by March 2026.
At least 42,500 of these spaces must be public or non-profit.
The Building Blocks grant will provide access to capital for non-profit and public child-care providers, offering full-time child care for children kindergarten age or younger.
Facilities that create child-care spaces for visible minorities, children with disabilities or families who work non-standard hours are also eligible to apply.
The Inclusive Spaces Program Grant 2024-25 applications intake closes Jan. 31.
A landmark agreement between the Met and a local authority will help bring frontline officers back into communities.
The opening of a police hub in Woodford provides Safer Neighbourhood officers with a dedicated base to enhance our response to issues such as anti-social behaviour, theft and vandalism.
It was made possible after Redbridge Council agreed to provide the co-location space to the Met and pay for the fit out of the hub, which means that officers can be stationed within walking distance of their wards.
Previously, following streamlining of the Met’s estate, officers policing that community were based around 20 minutes’ drive away.
The partnership between the Met and Redbridge Council demonstrates how agencies can work together to improve community safety.
It was formally opened by Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley and council leader Kam Rai on Thursday, 30 January, and will house up to 20 officers covering six wards.
It’s an important step towards the Met’s mission of delivering our strongest ever neighbourhood policing, which has already seen an additional 500 officers dedicated to working in communities across London ranging from Superintendents to PCSOs.
Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley said: “We are totally committed to making neighbourhood policing stronger than ever before so we can focus on tackling the crimes that matter most to Londoners.
“Having officers closer to the communities they serve is key to our success and the partnership with Redbridge Council ensures we can deliver this at a time when our budgets are being stretched.
“We have put an additional 500 officers into neighbourhood policing and our targeted approach has achieved a significant crime reduction in some areas. We want to go further and are already talking to local authorities to find solutions and ensure we can continue to deliver a great police service for London.”
The Leader of Redbridge Council, Cllr Kam Rai, said: “The new hub in Woodford is a prime example of how London boroughs can proactively play a vital role in bringing policing back into the communities they serve.
“This first of its kind, the hub will prove pivotal in helping to prevent antisocial behaviour and improve police response times across the west of Redbridge. This strategic location will significantly reduce the current travel time from Ilford, giving officers more time for local patrols and tackling issues.
“While we have a police station in Ilford and a base in Barkingside, the new hub means more officers will now be closer to the communities they look after.
“It was a pleasure welcoming Sir Mark Rowley to Redbridge, and we look forward to our continued close partnership with the Met Police to make our borough a safer place for local people.”
The Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime, Kaya Comer-Schwartz, said: “Keeping communities safe is our top priority and I welcome this new policing hub in Woodford which will help build closer relationships between officers and the communities they serve and boost the local response to issues such as anti-social behaviour, theft and vandalism.
“The Mayor and I are determined to do everything we can to support the Commissioner to deliver a new Met for London where local neighbourhood policing is prioritised and communities are put first. We have backed this up with record funding from City Hall for the Met Police, as we work together to build a safer London for all.”
The opening comes after the Met was moved out of special measures because of the progress made in fixing the foundations of the organisation. Part of this progress is based on the work to deliver better neighbourhood policing across London.
Our new neighbourhood policing model has been bolstered by an additional 500 staff ranging from superintendent to PCSOs, working closer than ever with communities to understand their concerns.
Across Redbridge there has been an almost 13 per cent reduction in the number of offences in the previous 12 months, including fewer reports of violence, drug offences and violence against women and girls.
Recent local operations have seen:
65 bags of cannabis, six bags of cannabis resin and nine wraps of white powder, along with approximately £2,000, seized when a car was stopped in Goodmayes Lane.
A man, later found to be wanted for three other burglaries, pursued and arrested after officers noticed an alarm at a commercial premises near Ilford station.
Officers on routine patrols around Churchfields recover two machetes and a hunting knife from a building known to be used as a squat.
Four arrests as part of an operation focused on offenders targeting victims making ATM withdrawals in Ilford town centre.
Three machetes, a firearm, white powder and brown substance found in a property in Mayfield Ward as part of an intelligence-led operation. A man ran from the property, was located by a dog unit and arrested.
Three vulnerable women rescued from a brothel by neighbourhood officers in Ilford.
Two robbery suspects arrested by officers in the Orchard Estate after they stole a victim’s coat and recorded the attack on a phone.
Today our Governing Council decided on monetary policy, determining what’s needed to return inflation to our 2% goal in a timely manner.
Listen to President Christine Lagarde present today’s decisions. The statement also covers:
• how the economy is performing
• how we expect prices to develop
• the risks to the economic outlook
• the dynamics behind financial and monetary conditions
Published and recorded during our press conference on 30 January 2025
Our monetary policy statement at a glance, 30 January 2025 www.ecb.europa.eu/press/press_conf…_january.en.html
Christine Lagarde, Luis de Guindos: Monetary policy statement, 30 January 2025 www.ecb.europa.eu/press/press_conf…418aa0f4.en.html
Monetary policy decisions, 30 January 2025 www.ecb.europa.eu/press/pr/date/20…0b29e622.en.html
Combined monetary policy decisions and statement, 30 January 2025 www.ecb.europa.eu/press/press_conf…fb5af6f3189be827
European Central Bank
www.ecb.europa.eu/home/html/index.en.html
You can also listen on all major podcast platforms.
Governor Kathy Hochul and Senator Charles Schumer today announced the opening of The Center for Discovery’s Children’s Specialty Hospital in Rock Hill, New York. This innovative facility is dedicated to supporting children and adolescents with complex disabilities, including autism, through specialized short-term inpatient care. Developed by The Center for Discovery’s (TCFD) multidisciplinary team over the past decade in close partnership with the NYS Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD), it introduces a new care model focused on proactive treatments to reduce long-term residential placements.
“New York State is devoted to improving health outcomes for all children, particularly those with developmental disabilities whose families face challenges in accessing suitable medical care for their child’s needs,” Governor Hochul said. “By bolstering this continuum of care through The Center for Discovery’s Children’s Specialty Hospital, families will spend less time apart and remain connected to their communities following treatment.”
Senator Charles Schumer said, “The Center for Discovery’s Children’s Specialty Hospital will provide critical life enhancing care to children and teens and be a beacon of hope in Sullivan County for generations to come. The impacts of the discoveries and systems of care made at this facility will stretch far beyond the Hudson Valley to help thousands of kids across America and the world. I was proud to deliver the historic federal investment to jumpstart this new first-of-its-kind hospital paving the way for a healthier future for vulnerable young patients and brighter future for the Hudson Valley, and I deeply appreciate the partnership of Governor Hochul and New York State legislative leaders in making this facility a reality. The Center for Discovery is a pillar of the Sullivan County economy, and this new hospital will create 400+ jobs while expanding the world class care provided here at the Center. Governor Hochul has been a tremendous partner and thanks to our team effort the dream for this facility that started so many years ago is finally a reality.”
Funding for the Children’s Specialty Hospital project was made possible through a $48 million low-interest loan from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Office of Rural Development’s Community Facilities Program, that Senator Schumer a longtime TCFD advocate helped secure, as well as a $4 million investment from New York State’s Empire State Development. The project also received critical support from the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD), the New York State Department of Health (DOH), and the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY).
Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, New York State has made significant strides with this innovative initiative, positioning itself as a national leader in preventive and holistic care for people with developmental disabilities. The launch of this facility reflects Governor Hochul’s dedication to improving the lives of families across New York.
The Specialty Hospital is designed for children ages five to 21 who meet OPWDD’s eligibility criteria and require medical care, in addition to supporting their developmental disabilities. The Children’s Specialty Hospital will provide inpatient treatment and conduct comprehensive medical, behavioral, and clinical assessments over a maximum of six months. Through a collaborative approach, this program is designed to help children and adolescents thrive at home, in school, and remain integrated in the community.
New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities Acting Commissioner Willow Baer said, “Achieving health equity for people with developmental disabilities is a priority for the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities and ensuring access to complete medical care for children, in an appropriate setting, is a part of that goal. We’re so excited for The Center for Discovery’s new Children’s Specialty Hospital to begin to help New York families and are grateful to our state and federal partners for making this vital resource possible for children and teenagers with complex medical conditions.”
Designed with both medical and therapeutic needs in mind, the new facility where the Children’s Specialty Hospital is located includes classrooms, a health clinic, sensory rooms, a therapeutic gym for physical and occupational therapies, a café, and a training kitchen. The 15-acre campus also offers outdoor walking trails, healing gardens, and a Food is Medicine® greenhouse, all supporting TCFD’s holistic approach to care.
After completing short-term treatment at the Hospital, patients will return home with a specialized care plan that includes training for families, caregivers, and school districts. TCFD’s team of experts will continue to support families as they build on the progress made during their child’s stay.
The Center for Discovery President & CEO Dr.Terry Hamlin said, “The Center for Discovery is deeply committed to supporting children and adolescents in innovative and expanded ways. With the launch of our new Children’s Specialty Hospital, we are thrilled to extend our reach and impact, providing a lifeline to families in search of answers. The children admitted to our hospital face extraordinary challenges. They live with co-occurring medical conditions that make their developmental disabilities profoundly complex to treat. Many of these medical issues are accompanied by pain, which often leads to maladaptive behaviors that further impact their quality of life. Families have long needed a place where their children’s complex needs are understood, and where there is integrated and coordinated care in one place. At The Center for Discovery, we are dedicated to addressing these medical complexities head-on, treating the root causes, and improving outcomes in ways that transform lives.”
The Children’s Specialty Hospital is poised to establish a new benchmark for specialized care and is projected to make a significant impact both nationally and internationally. This new facility will enhance the range of services available throughout New York State, offering a model of care that has the ability to revolutionize the treatment of children with complex disabilities while providing essential support for families statewide.
This groundbreaking initiative not only improves the level of care for children with disabilities but also aims to reduce extended hospital stays, enabling them to return home more swiftly.
Assemblymember Angelo Santabarbara said, “As Chair of the Assembly Committee on People with Disabilities and as a parent of a child with autism who attends The Center for Discovery, I know firsthand the challenges families face in accessing specialized care for children with complex disabilities. The opening of this first-of-its-kind Children’s Specialty Hospital is a monumental step forward for New York, providing critical medical care and much-needed support for families. This innovative model will not only improve health outcomes but also help reduce the need for long-term residential placements. I thank Governor Hochul, Senator Schumer, and all those who made this vision a reality.”
About The Center for Discovery
The Center for Discovery (TCFD) is a leading provider of healthcare and education services for more than 1,200 children and adults with complex conditions, medical frailties and autism spectrum disorders, located 90 miles northwest of New York City. Named a Center of Excellence in 2016, TCFD has long been a leader in developing new models of care for individuals with complex conditions. Located on 1,500 acres of land in Sullivan County, TCFD houses school campuses, residences, medical and research facilities, organic and biodynamic farmland, and leased private businesses offering meaningful employment opportunities. Deeply focused on an individual’s personal potential and possibilities, rather than a disability, TCFD strives to create better care and unique and challenging opportunities for the most vulnerable populations. For more information about TCFD, please visit their website.
For more information about The Children’s Specialty Hospital, please contact Michael Rosen, Executive VP of Development, Marketing, and Strategic Communications, at [email protected].
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News
Marc H. Silverman, Acting United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MICHELE DEVINE, 51, of Waterford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to 24 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for embezzling from the Southeastern Regional Action Council on Substance Abuse, Inc. (“SERAC”), where she was employed as its executive director. Judge Underhill also ordered Devine to pay a $2,000 fine and perform 300 hours of community service while on supervised release.
According to court documents and statements made in court, SERAC, headquartered in Norwich, is a 501(c)(3) organization that serves 41 towns in southeastern and northeastern Connecticut with substance abuse, problem gambling, and mental health related services. SERAC is primarily funded through hundreds of thousands of dollars in state and federal grants from the State of Connecticut’s Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
Devine was the executive director of SERAC until July 2022. Beginning in approximately 2008, Devine spent thousands of dollars on purchases that did not relate SERAC but instead were personal expenses for Devine and her family, including thousands of dollars spent on home appliances; travel; timeshare fees at a Connecticut resort; stays at the Canyon Ranch in the Berkshires, Massachusetts; and private school donations.
Judge Underhill ordered Devine to pay $397,064.93 in restitution.
Devine was arrested on August 3, 2023. On October 21, 2024, she pleaded guilty to wire fraud.
Devine, who is released on a $25,000 bond, is required to report to prison on March 12.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, with the assistance of the New London State’s Attorney’s Office and the State of Connecticut Office of the Attorney General. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ray Miller.
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News
Jacksonville, Florida – Chief United States District Judge Marcia Morales Howard has sentenced Timothy Burch Morris (46, Boynton Beach) to five years in federal prison for distributing over the internet two videos depicting the sexual abuse of young children. Morris was also ordered to serve a five-year term of supervised release, pay $10,000 in assessments for child victims, and register as a sex offender.
According to court documents, on November 20, 2023, an FBI agent (UC) in Jacksonville was working in an undercover capacity on a particular social media application (app) to identify individuals who were attempting to sexually exploit children using the internet. The UC joined an online public chatroom on the app posing as an adult with access to a child. App user “timkw37138,” who was later identified as Morris, posted within this public group – “Hi all. 44 very well hung male in Florida. My PM is open.” Later that day, the UC and Morris began texting using the private messaging feature of the app. Morris typed, “I just love stroking to guys [sic] daughters,” and stated that his favorite age is “prob 13-15 give or take a couple years neither side.”
On November 22, 2023, when asked to verify if he was “legit,” Morris sent the UC a sexually explicit photo of himself. Five minutes later, Morris distributed two videos to the UC depicting minors being sexually abused. During another online conversation on November 27, 2023, Morris sent the UC another sexually explicit photo of himself taken at his residence.
After further investigation, FBI agents arrested Morris. During a search incident to his arrest, agents seized Morris’s cellphone which contained several sexually explicit photos of Morris that he had taken while at his home that were consistent with those sent to the UC. During an interview with law enforcement, Morris admitted having the “timkw37138” user account on the app for over five years.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Jacksonville and West Palm Beach, with assistance from the Boynton Beach Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney D. Rodney Brown.
It is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue child victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Nikolaos Kargopoulos, Post-doctoral fellow, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cape Town
Giraffes are among the world’s most recognisable animals. With their elongated necks and long legs, their gracious movements and unique coat patterns, they have inspired people’s imaginations for centuries.
But is a giraffe just a giraffe? Or is there more variety between the animals at a genetic level than is evident just from looking at them?
For more than a decade many researchers have compared the DNA of giraffes from all parts of Africa. These studies have revealed that there are four distinct giraffe species: the southern (Giraffa giraffa), Masai (Giraffa tippelskirchi), reticulated (Giraffa reticulata), and northern (Giraffa camelopardalis) giraffe.
Different giraffe species face different risks. Some are among the most threatened large mammals in the world. While the southern and the Masai giraffe are relatively numerous and their populations estimated at approximately 45,000 and 50,000 individuals respectively, the situation does not look quite as rosy for the reticulated and the northern giraffe. Based on the latest estimates from the Giraffe Conservation Foundation (GCF), only 16,000 and 6,000 individuals respectively remain in the wild.
Therefore, it is critical to verify whether there are indeed different species of giraffe or not so that direct conservation efforts for the most threatened species can be increased before it’s too late.
The concept of species is fundamental in biology – but there is no consensus on its definition. There are many different approaches depending on individual scientists’ points of view. The best possible way to clarify the taxonomy (the system that organises living entities into groups) of organisms is through multiple approaches.
But there haven’t been many based on their skulls. That’s where our new study comes in. By examining the skulls of more than 500 giraffes from across the African continent, we were able to show that there are significant differences in the skull shapes of the different types of giraffe – and confirm that there are four species.
Giraffe skulls are important to the animals’ reproduction and evolution. That’s because of their ossicones, the horn-like structures that are longer and wider in males than in females.
The size and shape of the ossicones is important in the dominance of males and their mating success with female giraffe. While some preliminary data already suggested some potential differences in the ossicone morphology between the giraffe species, limitations on the available specimens and the methodologies at the time reduced the validity of the results.
Comparison of male and female skulls of the four species in lateral view.Kargopoulos et al 2024
For our research we used state-of-the-art equipment and methodologies, and we studied more than 500 giraffe skulls from all over Africa. The skulls were directly sampled in the field from across their natural range in Africa, as well as museum collections, wildlife authority offices, and taxidermists in different countries in Africa, Europe and the US.
Map showing the geographical range of the extant giraffe species and subspecies as well as representative male skulls of each subspecies in lateral view.Kargopoulos et al 2024, CC BY
This extensive study required help from many different partners. While the project was initiated and guided by the Giraffe Conservation Foundation and the University of Cape Town, many colleagues in Africa, Europe and North America contributed.
We used a handheld 3D scanner to capture the skulls’ shape in 3D. Then we used 3D geometric morphometrics methods to compare the shape of the giraffe skulls and find out if we could group them and find any significant differences. We chose so-called landmarks – specific points on the skulls – and captured their coordinates in space (their 3D distance from the centre of mass of the skull).
Finally, specialised software was used to compare the differences in the coordinates of landmarks between our specimens and to conduct statistical analyses to show if these differences were significant or not.
Skull variations
These rigorous analyses allowed us to show skull variations between four species.
These differences mostly concerned the ossicones. But there were also minor differences in their face, eye sockets, the region around the teeth, and the back part of the skull.
The most striking difference concerned the median ossicone of the males. This is a smaller third ossicone situated in the midline of the skull above their eyes. We determined that there is a general trend in the size and shape of this ossicone that follows geography and taxonomy. In southern giraffe, the third ossicone is practically a small protrusion; in northern giraffe it is large and pointed; the Masai and reticulated giraffe have ossicones that are somewhere between those two forms.
Such differences are likely important in the way individuals of a species recognise each other, thus affecting their reproductive success. Males with more developed ossicones intimidate their rivals to gain access to territory and females.
We strongly believe that the IUCN needs to stand tall for these animals and reassess their status. It is time for each giraffe species to get separate and enhanced attention, both locally and internationally, in particular when it comes to their conservation. Giraffes and their wild habitats must be protected before it’s too late.
– We studied more than 500 giraffe skulls from all over Africa – and confirmed there are 4 distinct species – https://theconversation.com/we-studied-more-than-500-giraffe-skulls-from-all-over-africa-and-confirmed-there-are-4-distinct-species-247466
A man and a woman have been jailed for murder after detectives pieced together a wealth of evidence to prove they murdered Sarah Mayhew, then dismembered her and dumped her body over several trips, in plain sight of the public.
Steve Samson, 45 (10.05.79) of Burnell Road, Sutton, and Gemma Watts, 49 (22.07.75) of Holmbury Grove, Croydon, were sentenced to life imprisonment at the Old Bailey on Thursday, 30 January for the murder of Sarah Mayhew.
Samson will serve a whole life order and Watts will serve a minimum of 30 years’ imprisonment.
The pair were also sentenced to five years each for perverting the course of public justice, to run concurrently.
At an earlier hearing they both pleaded guilty to murder and preventing a lawful burial.
Detective Chief Inspector Martin Thorpe, from the Specialist Crime Command, who led the investigation, said: “I would like to send my deepest condolences to Sarah’s family and friends. A loss is always hard, but to hear about the way Sarah spent her last moments must be heart-breaking. I commend their bravery and strength throughout this investigation; we will continue to support them should they need us.
“Secondly, I would like to commend my colleagues from across the Met. The dedication shown to this investigation, which has been complex and challenging, has been extraordinary, they worked around the clock to pull together the evidence needed to bring this case to court.
“The investigation included viewing hundreds of hours of CCTV, extensive forensic examinations within the defendants’ houses, the searching of fields and rivers, witness accounts, and reviewing the defendants’ phones. These revealed messages detailing what the defendants planned to do to Sarah, with texts and voice notes recorded by the defendants themselves, also revealing their intention to carry out violent attacks on others.
“Sarah was a young woman who had the rest of her life ahead of her, before it was selfishly taken by Samson and Watts for their own sadistic motive.
“Their sick and twisted desires were heard in court by her family. They listened to traumatising evidence which revealed that the two enjoyed the pain and torment that they put Sarah through. No sentence can ever bring Sarah back or compensate for her loss, we ask for you to please respect their privacy during this tough time.”
An investigation was launched following a call to police shortly after 09:00hrs on 2 April 2024, to reports of human remains found in Rowdown Fields in Croydon.
A forensic examination revealed the remains to be of Sarah Mayhew, 38, who was living in Croydon at the time of her death.
Shortly after the first discovery, remains were also found in Mitcham in May 2024. A further examination revealed that the remains also belonged to Sarah.
The investigation revealed messages on Samson’s phone which showed a conversation that suggested the pair wanted to murder Sarah. The conversation revealed that Samson was going to invite Sarah over to his house to which Watts replied “only if it’s a deal she ain’t leaving in one piece” to which Samson added “okay”.
Following on from the discussion further messages were sent that indicated a sexual and sadistic motivation.
Sarah was last seen on CCTV entering a property in Sutton on 8 March 2024 accompanied by Samson and his dog. It is believed that Sarah was murdered on this day.
Messages were found from the same date sent by Samson who was trying to justify what they had done. The message to Watts said “we’re not evil, we’re not evil”.
Two days later, Samson was captured on CCTV in a retail shop purchasing a hacksaw, blades and a bucket.
The pair then began their attempt to clean-up the crime scene and conceal their involvement in the murder. Watts was seen on CCTV in a retail shop buying multiple cleaning products such as bleach and scourers, a receipt was later recovered for these following a search of her property.
Further intelligence found that as well as the cleaning products, a silver incinerator bin was purchased to burn Sarah’s personal belongings, which were never recovered.
Officers discovered that Samson and Watts travelled to and from Rowdown Fields using public transport on 11 March 2024 while carrying oversized shopping bags, which they appeared to have struggled to carry.
In April, parts of Sarah’s body were found in the same location.
It was also found that the pair travelled to the River Wandle with a suitcase. CCTV showed them returning from their journey with no suitcase.
Sarah’s torso was then found in May in the same location.
Following the discovery of Sarah’s remains in April, Samson was arrested at his home address on 6 April 2024 and Watts was arrested later on the same day.
A search of Samson’s house found traces of blood in the same black bucket he had earlier purchased.
A forensic detection dog also indicated areas of interest, one being the bottom of a wall in Samson’s bedroom – testing revealed extensive amounts of blood.
They were charged on 9 April 2024 and convicted as above.
Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
Murray: “The Trump administration’s half-hearted steps yesterday to clean up this massive mess they have made just affirms two things—one: they are still illegally withholding federal funds that are law; and two: this is an administration whose sheer incompetence, combined with their bad intentions and willful disregard of the law, is creating mass panic and chaos, and hurting people everywhere.”
Murray lays out how funding freeze is still hurting Head Start providers, rental assistance, community health centers, hurting Tribes in Washington state
***VIDEO HERE***
Washington, D.C. – This morning, at a press conference with Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-NM) and Gary Peters (D-MI), Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, once again spoke out forcefully to raise the alarm over the illegal, sweeping Office of Management and Budget (OMB) memo issued by the Trump administration on Monday night that directed agencies to freeze vast swaths of federal funding passed into law by Congress.
Yesterday morning—just hours after the OMB memo was issued—Murray joined Leader Schumer and Senators Merkley, Klobuchar, Murphy, Kim, and King for a press conference hammering the Trump administration for the unprecedented and dangerous move, and highlighting the mass panic and confusion it was already creating for families, businesses, nonprofits, towns, and communities in every part of the country. Immediately after the OMB memo became public Monday night, Murray and House Appropriations Committee Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro sent a letter to Acting OMB Director Matthew J. Vaeth raising the alarm on President Trump’s unlawful executive orders and the new memoranda. A fact sheet on the issue of the impoundment is available HERE.
Senator Murray’s remarks, as delivered, are below and video is HERE:
“While a judge has put this illegal move to freeze federal grants on hold for a very few short days, as Senator Schumer talked about, the threat, and the chaos, and the panic remain.
“And, let’s be clear, the Trump administration’s half-hearted steps yesterday to clean up this massive mess they have made just affirms two things—one: they are still illegally withholding federal funds that are law; and two: this is an administration whose sheer incompetence, combined with their bad intentions and willful disregard of the law, is creating mass panic and chaos, and hurting people everywhere.
“Their explanations have created no clarity or certainty for many panicked families, businesses, nonprofits, towns, and states. And they don’t actually change the basic fact that Trump is holding up funding our communities are counting on—and funding that is law.
“Because first off, there are lots of programs they are saying won’t be affected when that is not what organizations across the country are experiencing.
“Just one example: yesterday, Head Start providers were locked out of their reimbursement portal—meaning folks that are taking care of our youngest kids were suddenly not sure how they were going to keep the doors open or pay their teachers and staff.
“Rental assistance—the payment system for housing authorities was down yesterday, I checked again with my staff this morning; it is still down.
“And beyond that, there is just a long list of programs still left completely on the chopping block. Programs that help red states and blue states alike.
“Meanwhile, a Tribe back in my home state of Washington told me just a little bit ago that they are having to determine if they need to lay off 400 people.
“Community Health Centers have been having difficulty drawing down their federal funds. Sometimes they are the only providers, especially in our rural or remote communities. It is the end of the month, they need to make payroll!
“There are real patients to consider here as clinics have to think about whether they have the funds to cover services because of this illegal move.
“Funding for firefighters—you know what doesn’t stop when federal funding stops? Fires! I mean the list goes on, and on. The calls are coming in, and the chaos—I am here to tell you—has not died down this morning.
“There is really only one solution here in the Senate, and that is for all of us—all of us—to stand up and say ‘enough.’ To demand President Trump revoke these reckless orders and recognize Congress—Congress—has the power of the purse.
“We will fight this in the courts, yes, but President Trump needs to back down from this reckless order that is hurting Americans and just follow the law as Congress wrote it.
“This kind of freeze is going to hurt their states just as much, if not more. This is not a red or blue issue.
“So, as Leader Schumer has said, we are going to keep sounding the alarm and pointing out who President Trump is hurting. We are going to listen to folks back home and raise their stories for everyone to hear.
“None of us were elected to hurt people or sow chaos. We are elected to help people and solve problems. I hope every Member of Congress works with us to make clear, and work to tell President Trump: the law is the law. Work to tell him that Congress is a co-equal branch of government and the executive is there to execute the laws Congress has written. “The White House needs to stop hurting the American people.”
Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
Murray: “Make no mistake—the Trump Administration is still illegally holding up billions of dollars across the federal government through their Day One Executive Orders… Trump has made it clear he is not going to stop.”
ICYMI: Senator Murray: “No Senator Who Believes Congress Holds the Power of the Purse Should Vote for Russ Vought”
***VIDEO HERE***
Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, spoke at a press conference with Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) immediately after OMB rescinded its disastrous Monday night memo that illegally froze vast swaths of federal funding appropriated by Congress for communities all over the country.
Senator Murray has consistently raised alarm bells over President Trump and his top advisors’ ongoing efforts and plans to illegally block funding Congress has provided from making it out to American families, businesses, and communities. Last week, she grilled President Trump’s nominee to lead the Office of Management and Budget, Russ Vought, on his loud declarations that President Trump should unilaterally hold up funding—and his refusal to commit to Congress to follow the law. She called out President Trump’s unlawful executive orders holding up funding for infrastructure, national security programs, good-paying clean energy jobs and innovations, and much more—and released a fact sheet detailing how his orders violate the law and the constitution. On Monday night, after OMB issued its sweeping memo freezing trillions of dollars in funding for America, Senator Murray and House Appropriations Committee Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro sent a letter to Acting OMB Director Matthew J. Vaeth raising the alarm on President Trump’s unlawful executive orders and the new memoranda. She joined Leader Schumer and Senators Merkley, Klobuchar, Murphy, Kim, and King hours later for a press conference highlighting the mass panic and confusion the memo was already creating for families and communities in every part of the country. This morning, Senator Murray spoke at a press conference with Leader Schumer and Senators Heinrich and Peters hammering how badly Trump’s actions are hurting their states—and working people all across the country.
Senator Murray’s remarks, as delivered, are below and video is HERE:
“Never in my time in the Senate have I seen a President cause as much chaos, and panic, and damage in such a short time as President Trump has caused with his brazen and illegal move to freeze federal grants, across the government, and across the country.
“The Trump administration—through a combination of sheer incompetence, cruel intentions, and a willful disregard of the law—caused real harm and chaos for millions over the span of just 48 hours.
“But we learned something important: when the American people speak out with one voice—when regular people stand up, it makes a difference. This victory belongs to everyone who raised their voice.
“But make no mistake, the fight is far from over. My phone was ringing off the hook, and it still is.
“You know, everyday Americans actually understand a freeze like this would hurt them, cause serious problems in their lives, and make their lives worse—homeless shelters kicking out kids, clinical trials getting canceled, child care providers laying people off, roads and bridges not getting built, cops not getting hired.
“You know, while people like Elon Musk may not feel the pain of a single one of those cuts or delays, everyday Americans—who work hard every day, expect a fair shake, and expect the government to be there when it counts—they knew this would be catastrophic.
“But again—and please understand this—the fight is not over. Because even though, after the intense outcry from the American people, Trump has now admitted this was a colossal mistake by rescinding the guidance—the threat, the chaos, the panic, can’t just be wiped away.
“We have a lot of work to do right now, to make sure all the funding now actually does get moving again—this is not like turning on a light switch.
“And as we just saw through the chaotic rollout, its complicated stuff. So we will all be watching closely to make sure funds get where they belong ASAP.
“And even afterwards, no one is forgetting what they just tried to do, and what they are still doing.
“Make no mistake: the Trump Administration is still illegally holding up billions of dollars across the federal government through their Day One Executive Orders.
“You don’t have to take my word for it, the White House Press Secretary just said, and I quote: ‘This is not a rescission of the federal funding freeze. […] The President’s [Executive Orders] on federal funding remain in full force and effect, and will be rigorously implemented.’
“That means they are still blocking investments Congress passed into law to help our communities.
“They are still blocking things like international aid, clean air and water projects, investments in new clean energy jobs, and a lot of other projects funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which Trump is stopping with his illegal executive orders.
“And, aside from the fact they have not stopped blocking this funding illegally, their blatant attempt this week to illegally freeze trillions more in one fell swoop is, mark my words, a clear sign of what is to come: more lawless cuts, more chaos, more pain for our families.
“Trump has made it clear he is not going to stop. Unless—unless Congress, and the American people, make clear we are not going to stand for it.
“And we have an opportunity now to make that clear, when we vote on Russ Vought’s nomination to be Budget Director. He is the chief architect of Project 2025—which left its digital fingerprints all over the illegal OMB guidance that was issued.
“This is a man who time and again has refused to say he will follow the law—including to me and to many others directly.
“Every lawmaker who doesn’t want to see funds that they worked to secure for their state—funds they know families are counting on—ripped away must vote ‘no.’ And that’s a start!
“But, as long as the Trump administration is illegally holding back funds and harming families, this fight is not over.
“I—and all of my colleagues— will keep working to hold this administration accountable, make sure our communities get the resources they are owed, and make certain President Trump follows the law as intended by Congress.”
As the new year unfolds, it’s time to turn your dreams into reality with Samsung’s Blue Tag Sale, running from 13 January to 2 March 2025. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your home appliances, tech gadgets, or enhance your lifestyle, Samsung’s latest innovations are here to help you make your 2025 a year of progress and transformation.
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Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Rubbish later caught fire, disrupting town – Lancashire and Devon men guilty of waste crime
Fire-ravaged unit at Westwood Business Park in Margate
Routine complaints about flies in a seaside town unearthed a vast cavern of illegally-stored waste.
No wonder the flies, as well as rats, were interested. David Weeks and Lee Brookes had built up a massive stockpile of rubbish, neatly packaged in black plastic.
The Environment Agency prosecuted the pair, resulting in suspended prison sentences totalling 20 months between them for filling a Margate warehouse with the waste.
It was spring 2017. As the weather warmed up, frustrated residents rang the local council to report swarms of flies close to an anonymous building.
Officials at Thanet District Council contacted the Environment Agency, which began an investigation. It discovered the illegal storage of thousands of bales of household and construction waste inside the building, unit P, on the Westwood Business Park.
Baled waste stored inside unit P before the fire.
A director of Devon-based DW Land Ltd, Weeks signed a one-year lease with the building’s owners at the start of 2017.
Lorry after lorry dumped waste
But no sooner was the ink dry on the lease that lorry after lorry began arriving in Margate from across the home counties – a procession of 220 vehicles over three months, offloading 6,000 blocks of waste and placed in the building.
Totnes businessman Weeks employed Brookes’ firm, OMC Outdoor Maintenance Company, of Whitworth, in Lancashire, to secure and manage unit P. Weeks told the Environment Agency he was the agent for two companies wanting the site for an energy-from-waste plant.
Judge Simon Taylor KC heard the waste had left legal sites in Hampshire and Hertfordshire, bound for the Kent coast, to be stored inside the building, but outside the law. Neither Brookes nor Weeks obtained an environmental permit for the storage of waste.
Risk became reality when building went up in flames
Matt Higginson, environment manager for the Environment Agency in Kent, said:
Weeks and Brookes profited financially from payments made to the sites where the waste originated and from its storage in Kent.
Not getting an environmental permit for the building, avoiding the cost and requirements of getting one, Weeks and Brookes gave themselves an unfair advantage over legitimate waste operators
A permit for the site would have required a plan to manage the risk of fire. Risk became reality when the building went up in flames. The disruption for local people went on for almost a month.
This case proves you must use firms authorised to take away your waste. Check the register of waste carriers’ licences on gov.uk.
Throughout 2017 and 2018, Weeks and Brookes gave the Environment Agency several excuses as to why they couldn’t clear the waste from the building.
On 18 September that year, the building caught fire. Kent Fire and Rescue Service fought the blaze for 25 days. At its peak, rubbish burst out of the packaging. Although no cause for the fire has ever been found, roads and businesses had to close, and the disruption led to operations cancelled at the local hospital.
View of fire-ravaged unit P at Westwood Business Park in Margate.
It was only a year later, towards the end of 2019, and almost three years after the first delivery of rubbish, what waste survived the fire was finally removed by the battered building’s new owner.
Weeks and Brookes gave scant assistance to the Environment Agency’s investigation. Even after the fire, the pair kept a very low profile.
David Weeks, 55, of School Hill, Totnes, Devon, was sentenced to 16 months in prison, suspended for two years. He also to pay £5,000 in costs, and a victim surcharge of £140.
Judge Taylor also gave Weeks 150 hours unpaid work and 20 hours of rehabilitation activity aimed at preventing him from reoffending. He’ll have to wear an electronic tag to monitor his daytime movements for the next two months.
Lee Brookes, of Tonacliffe Way, Whitworth, Lancashire, received a sentence of four months in prison, suspended for a year. He was also given 80 hours of unpaid work and the same 20 hours of rehabilitation programme. The court also ordered the 49-year-old to pay costs of £1,000 and a £115 victim surcharge.
At the hearing on 21 January, the court was told Weeks was fined almost £10,000 seven years ago for his part in the management of a site in Plymouth where 13,000 tonnes of wood was stored illegally.
The two men pleaded guilty at an earlier hearing to knowing their respective companies, DW Land and OMC Maintenance, ran the waste operation in Margate without an environmental permit between 13 January 2017 and 22 August 2019, against regulation 12 (1)(a) of the Environmental Permitting (England and Wales) Regulations 2016.
DW Land Ltd, of Paignton Road, Stoke Gabriel, Totnes, Devon, and OMC Outdoor Maintenance Company Ltd, also of Tonacliffe Way, Whitworth, Lancashire, are no longer trading.
Source: The Conversation – UK – By Steve Schifferes, Honorary Research Fellow, City Political Economy Research Centre, City St George’s, University of London
After six months of talking down the economy and warning of tough times ahead, the UK chancellor Rachel Reeves has changed her tune. She is now much more optimistic about Britain’s economic prospects and has announced a raft of measures including major pension reforms designed to unlock cash to boost growth and productivity.
But Labour’s political problem is that none of her plans will have an immediate impact on the UK’s anaemic growth rate – the economy has virtually flatlined for the last six months. From day one Reeves has put growth at the centre of her plans, and a lack of it will mean tough choices in the spring, when she must spell out government spending plans for the next three years.
The government is focusing on a wide range of “supply side” reforms, including unleashing pension funds to invest in Britain, as well as relaxing the planning system and building infrastructure – many of which have an uncanny resemblance to measures once proposed by former prime minister Liz Truss.
At the heart of these plans is a big increase in investment in infrastructure to boost productivity – things like roads, public transport and technology – where Britain lags behind its major rivals.
But there’s a big catch. The independent spending watchdog, the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR), estimates that it will take years – or even decades – for infrastructure projects to transform the British economy, with only a 0.1% boost in growth in the near term for every additional 1% on public investment.
Without other measures that have a more immediate impact, the political risk to Labour is that its pledge to make everyone better off may feel hollow to voters.
The challenges are particularly acute for big transport projects, as the debacle of HS2 illustrates. Even with changes to the planning system, work on expanding Heathrow airport is unlikely to start before 2030. And major projects like the Lower Thames crossing between Kent and Essex and the Sizewell C nuclear reactor in Suffolk have been in the planning stage for nearly 20 years.
Electricity supply is another crucial area, with the need for more renewable energy and an expansion of the grid. This will now need to be financed largely by private capital as the government has scaled back its “green new deal”.
So how exactly will all these big plans be financed? The government is hoping to unleash additional investment from the UK pension fund industry, by changing the rules to allow defined benefit (sometimes called final salary) schemes with surpluses to invest more widely.
Although there is currently £160 billion available in these schemes, this could change if interest rates fall. It is also not clear how attractive such UK infrastructure investment would even be. Many projects, such as in privatised industries like water and electricity, will at least partly be funded by increased charges to consumers.
The government’s own spending plans to increase public investment are relatively modest. These plans bring government capital spending (which allows for borrowing under the fiscal rules) just slightly above the historic average.
Planning reform could also prove problematic. Although the government is changing some of the rules, especially in relation to housebuilding, planning decisions will be still made by local authorities. In many cases these will face strong local opposition, potentially delaying decisions.
This points to the larger political problem for the government. The changes will not eliminate the tension between the government’s growth and environmental objectives, with the latter potentially a crucial issue in many of the marginal seats won by Labour in the last election.
Heathrow expansion will put the government’s climate targets in serious jeopardy. Dinendra Haria/Shutterstock
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has described the need to pull out the “weeds” of regulation as vital to growth plans. He has already sacked the head of the key regulatory agency, the Competition and Markets Authority. But allowing more consolidation of British industry could create monopolies, which tend to raise prices, increase profits and neglect investment.
There are even greater concerns over possible deregulation of the financial sector, which could abolish many of the safeguards established after the global financial crisis in 2008.
What’s missing?
The government is much less clear on what it is going to do about the supply of skilled labour than the availability of capital. Shortages of skilled workers could limit progress on these big infrastructure projects if workers are also needed to build housing.
Government plans for boosting skills training, and the funding for further and higher education, are still works in progress. Meanwhile, limits on immigration will reduce the number of skilled construction workers. And the details of the government’s plan to boost the labour force by getting more people on disability benefit back to work have yet to be spelled out.
As Labour sets out its long-term growth plan, dark clouds are looming. In particular, in global terms the British economy is one of the most dependent on international trade and investment. But most of its trade is with its two largest trading partners – the EU and the USA.
Growing protectionism in the US, coupled with a lack of access to EU markets caused by Brexit, could have a significant effect on Britain’s growth. The UK economy is projected by the IMF to grow by just 1.6% this year, which is still weak by historic standards.
It may be of little consolation to the public if this is higher than in France and Germany. Reeves may well find that’s simply not enough to satisfy the expectations of voters.
Steve Schifferes does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
As part of the $3.8-billion Canada-Alberta Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement, Alberta is supporting families to access affordable child care across the province with their choice in provider.
Starting Apr. 1, parents with children zero to kindergarten age attending full-time licensed daycare facilities and family day home programs across the province will be eligible for a flat parent fee of $326.25 per month, or roughly $15 a day. Parents requiring part-time care will pay $230 per month.
To support these changes and high-quality child care, about 85 per cent of licensed daycare providers will receive a funding increase once the new fee structure is in place on Apr. 1.
Every day, parents and families across Alberta rely on licensed child-care providers to support their children’s growth and development while going to work or school. Licensed child-care providers and early childhood educators play a crucial role in helping children build the skills they need to support their growth and overall health. As Alberta’s population grows, the need for high-quality, affordable and accessible licensed and regulated child care is increasing.
While Alberta already reduced parent fees to an average of $15 a day in January 2024, many families are still paying much more depending on where they live, the age of their child and the child-care provider they choose, which has led to inconsistency and confusion. Many families find it difficult to estimate their child-care fees if they move or switch providers, and providers have expressed concerns about the fairness and complexity of the current funding framework.
A flat monthly fee will provide transparency and predictability for families in every part of the province while also improving fairness to providers and increasing overall system efficiency. On behalf of families, Alberta’s government will cover about 80 per cent of child-care fees through grants to daycare facilities and family day homes.
This means a family using full-time daycare could save, on average, $11,000 per child per year. A flat monthly parent fee will ensure child care is affordable for everyone and that providers are compensated for the important services they offer.
As opposed to a flat monthly parent fee, Alberta’s government will reimburse preschools up to $100 per month per child on parents’ behalf, up from $75.
“Albertans deserve affordable child-care options, no matter where they are or which type of care works best for them. We are bringing in flat parent fees for families so they can all access high-quality child care for the same affordable, predictable fee.”
“Reducing child care fees makes life more affordable for families and gives them the freedom to make choices that work for them—whether that’s working, studying or growing their family. We’ll keep working to bring costs down, create more spots, and reduce waitlists for families in Alberta and across the country, while ensuring every child gets the best start in life.”
To make Alberta’s child-care system affordable for all families, the flat monthly parent fee is replacing the Child Care Subsidy Program for children zero to kindergarten age attending child care during regular school hours. The subsidy for children attending out-of-school care is not changing.
As the province transitions to the new flat parent fee, child-care providers will have flexibility to offer optional services for an additional supplemental parent fee. These optional services must be over and above the services that are provided to all children in individual child-care programs. Clear requirements will be in place for providers to prevent preferential child-care access for families choosing to pay for optional services.
Cutting red tape and supporting child-care providers
By moving to a flat monthly parent fee, Alberta’s government is continuing the transition to a primarily publicly funded child care system. To support high-quality child care, approximately 85 per cent of licensed daycare providers will receive a funding increase once the new structure is in place on Apr. 1.
The province is enhancing the system to streamline the child-care claims process used to reimburse licensed child-care providers on behalf of Alberta parents. Alberta’s government is also putting technological solutions in place to reduce administrative burden and red tape.
Looking ahead
Over the final year of the federal agreement, Alberta’s government is working to support the child-care system while preparing to negotiate the next term of the agreement, reflective of the needs of Albertans and providers. Alberta joins its provincial and territorial partners across the country in calling for a sustainable, adequately funded system that works for parents and providers long term.
Quick facts
In line with requirements under the Canada-Alberta Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement, the flat monthly parent fee only applies to children zero to kindergarten age requiring care during regular school hours.
Children attending 100 or more hours in a month are considered full-time and parents will pay $326.25 a month. Children attending between 50 and 99 hours are considered part-time and parents will pay $230 a month.
Families with children attending preschool for up to four hours a day are eligible for up to $100 per month.
There are no changes to the out-of-school care Child Care Subsidy Program for children requiring care outside of school hours in grades 1 to 6 and attending full-time kindergarten.
Programs may choose to provide optional services for a supplemental fee. Examples may include transportation, field trips and food. Child-care programs are not required to charge parents additional supplemental fees.
Related information
Federal-provincial child care agreement
Related news
Alberta strengthens child care safety (Oct. 30, 2024)
Today government released the 2024 Domestic Violence Death Review Report for Saskatchewan.
“Saskatchewan recognizes the need to take action to address the issue of interpersonal violence and domestic violence deaths in our province” Justice Minister and Attorney General Tim McLeod said. “The recommendations in this report will inform future government responses to domestic and interpersonal violence, and can serve as a roadmap for all of us as a province to make our province safer for everyone.”
The review was conducted by a multi-ministry steering committee and three multidisciplinary case review teams. They completed an analysis of 31 domestic homicide-related deaths, including an in-depth analysis of 11 cases.
The report found rates of domestic violence related homicide in rural areas were more than double the rates in urban areas. The majority of domestic homicide victims were female (83 per cent) and most perpetrators were male (82 per cent). Most victims were murdered by current intimate partners. Indigenous peoples were overrepresented as victims.
The review emphasized the need for a comprehensive and coordinated approach to address domestic violence in Saskatchewan.
The six recommendations promote action in the following areas:
education and awareness;
intervention for perpetrators;
victim-centered approaches;
legislation and policy;
services in rural and northern areas; and
infrastructure development.
The recommendations in this report put the onus of change on societal systems and individuals who use violence. The full recommendations are available in the report, which is available in its entirety at the bottom of this release.
As part of the review, family members and loved ones of domestic homicide victims were invited to participate in the development of a piece of art to act as a memorial for those lost. This memorial expresses loss, grief and memories. It also depicts hope for the future and for change.
“The loss of lives to domestic violence is a tragic and deeply painful outcome in which women are disproportionately victimized,” Minister Responsible for the Status of Women Alana Ross said. “We honour those lost by learning from their deaths and continuing our efforts to prevent all forms of interpersonal violence and abuse.”
The Government of Saskatchewan is committed to responding to the recommendations and opportunities for action in the 2024 Domestic Violence Death Review.
The province conducted its first Domestic Violence Death Review in 2016 and released the resulting final report in 2018 to expand the provincial understanding of domestic violence deaths and inform future policies and practices.
The 2018 Domestic Violence Death Review was used to develop numerous initiatives to address domestic violence in Saskatchewan, including, but not limited to:
funding for second stage housing;
the development of Family Intervention Rapid Support Teams;
Clare’s Law;
10-day work leave (including five paid days) for survivors;
expanded interpersonal violence supports at the 211 crisis line; and
the Face the Issue public awareness campaign.
If someone you know may be at risk of interpersonal violence and abuse you can find a complete directory of resources to help online at sk.211.ca/abuse.
Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Nikolaos Kargopoulos, Post-doctoral fellow, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cape Town
Giraffes are among the world’s most recognisable animals. With their elongated necks and long legs, their gracious movements and unique coat patterns, they have inspired people’s imaginations for centuries.
But is a giraffe just a giraffe? Or is there more variety between the animals at a genetic level than is evident just from looking at them?
For more than a decade many researchers have compared the DNA of giraffes from all parts of Africa. These studies have revealed that there are four distinct giraffe species: the southern (Giraffa giraffa), Masai (Giraffa tippelskirchi), reticulated (Giraffa reticulata), and northern (Giraffa camelopardalis) giraffe.
Different giraffe species face different risks. Some are among the most threatened large mammals in the world. While the southern and the Masai giraffe are relatively numerous and their populations estimated at approximately 45,000 and 50,000 individuals respectively, the situation does not look quite as rosy for the reticulated and the northern giraffe. Based on the latest estimates from the Giraffe Conservation Foundation (GCF), only 16,000 and 6,000 individuals respectively remain in the wild.
Therefore, it is critical to verify whether there are indeed different species of giraffe or not so that direct conservation efforts for the most threatened species can be increased before it’s too late.
The concept of species is fundamental in biology – but there is no consensus on its definition. There are many different approaches depending on individual scientists’ points of view. The best possible way to clarify the taxonomy (the system that organises living entities into groups) of organisms is through multiple approaches.
But there haven’t been many based on their skulls. That’s where our new study comes in. By examining the skulls of more than 500 giraffes from across the African continent, we were able to show that there are significant differences in the skull shapes of the different types of giraffe – and confirm that there are four species.
Giraffe skulls are important to the animals’ reproduction and evolution. That’s because of their ossicones, the horn-like structures that are longer and wider in males than in females.
The size and shape of the ossicones is important in the dominance of males and their mating success with female giraffe. While some preliminary data already suggested some potential differences in the ossicone morphology between the giraffe species, limitations on the available specimens and the methodologies at the time reduced the validity of the results.
For our research we used state-of-the-art equipment and methodologies, and we studied more than 500 giraffe skulls from all over Africa. The skulls were directly sampled in the field from across their natural range in Africa, as well as museum collections, wildlife authority offices, and taxidermists in different countries in Africa, Europe and the US.
Map showing the geographical range of the extant giraffe species and subspecies as well as representative male skulls of each subspecies in lateral view. Kargopoulos et al 2024, CC BY
This extensive study required help from many different partners. While the project was initiated and guided by the Giraffe Conservation Foundation and the University of Cape Town, many colleagues in Africa, Europe and North America contributed.
We used a handheld 3D scanner to capture the skulls’ shape in 3D. Then we used 3D geometric morphometrics methods to compare the shape of the giraffe skulls and find out if we could group them and find any significant differences. We chose so-called landmarks – specific points on the skulls – and captured their coordinates in space (their 3D distance from the centre of mass of the skull).
Finally, specialised software was used to compare the differences in the coordinates of landmarks between our specimens and to conduct statistical analyses to show if these differences were significant or not.
Skull variations
These rigorous analyses allowed us to show skull variations between four species.
These differences mostly concerned the ossicones. But there were also minor differences in their face, eye sockets, the region around the teeth, and the back part of the skull.
The most striking difference concerned the median ossicone of the males. This is a smaller third ossicone situated in the midline of the skull above their eyes. We determined that there is a general trend in the size and shape of this ossicone that follows geography and taxonomy. In southern giraffe, the third ossicone is practically a small protrusion; in northern giraffe it is large and pointed; the Masai and reticulated giraffe have ossicones that are somewhere between those two forms.
Such differences are likely important in the way individuals of a species recognise each other, thus affecting their reproductive success. Males with more developed ossicones intimidate their rivals to gain access to territory and females.
Attention for individual species
Our study is confirmation of what scientists have known for almost a decade and supports the taxonomic split of the giraffe.
We strongly believe that the IUCN needs to stand tall for these animals and reassess their status. It is time for each giraffe species to get separate and enhanced attention, both locally and internationally, in particular when it comes to their conservation. Giraffes and their wild habitats must be protected before it’s too late.
The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe
The focus of the meeting will be on cutting edge ideas, approaches, and tools in the area of statistical data editing. In addition to the traditional presentations, the agenda of the meeting anticipates interactive discussions related to particular topics within this field.
The target audience of the expert meeting includes senior and middle-level methodologists, statisticians and researchers, working on editing and imputation of statistical data derived from surveys, censuses, administrative and external sources.
Moving towards the standardized process of automatic statistical data editing using machine learning techniques – Ieva Burakauskaitė (State Data Agency, Statistics Lithuania)
Full conditional distributions for handling restrictions in the context of automated statistical data editing – Christian Aßmann (Leibniz Institute for Educational Trajectories)
Application of the MissForest algorithm for imputing income variables in the Survey on Income and Living Conditions – Blandine Bianchi (Swiss Federal Statistical Office)
Assessment of Manual vs Automated Survey Editing and Imputation – Sean Rhodes (U.S. Department of Agriculture National Agricultural Statistics Service)
Lightning Talk: Random forest imputation of nutritional information for statistics on food consumption in Norway – Magne Furuholmen Myhren (Statistics Norway)
Session 4: Selective editing and outlier detection
Detecting Extreme Numerical Outliers in Trade Data: A Novel Method for Highly Asymmetric Distributions – Andrea Cerasa (European Commission, Joint Research Centre)
The European One-Stop-Shop for Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning for Official Statistics (AIML4OS): WP8 Use Case focused on data editing – Steffen Moritz (Destatis, Germany)
The European One-Stop-Shop for Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning for Official Statistics (AIML4OS): WP9 Use Case focused on imputation – David Salgado (Statistics Spain)
Orlando, Florida – Senior U.S. District Judge Roy B. Dalton, Jr. has sentenced Edward Camacho (20, Winter Garden) to four years and three months in federal prison for theft of a firearm from a federal firearms licensee. Camacho pleaded guilty on September 17, 2024.
According to the plea agreement, on August 18, 2023, Camacho backed a vehicle into the front of a federal firearms licensee business around midnight. After smashing the front door and wall of the business, Camacho entered the business and broke a glass case where multiple firearms were housed. Camacho stole six firearms and then fled in his vehicle.
Camacho was apprehended less than two hours later after a foot pursuit with law enforcement. During the foot chase, Camacho was seen tossing three firearms onto the ground, two of which were confirmed to be stolen from the federal firearms licensee business.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Winter Park Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie Alexa McNeff.
This case is part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence for occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
DAVOS, Switzerland, Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Lumia Foundation and SEN Group have officially commenced construction and tokenization of the highly anticipated Lumia Towers by SEN, the first project under their landmark $1 billion real estate tokenization agreement. Valued at $220 million, the twin towers will redefine modern urban living by integrating luxurious residential spaces with Turkey’s first dedicated crypto hub.
Located in Istanbul, Turkey, the Lumia Towers by SEN project symbolizes a powerful collaboration between Lumia Foundation, created by US-based visionaries Kal and Yanush Ali, and Turkey’s SEN Group, a leader in sustainable and earthquake-resistant real estate development.
A vision introduced in Davos
At the World Economic Forum in Davos, Lumia Foundation’s co-founder Yanush Ali, Chief Blockchain Architect Deniz Dalkilic, and Chief Product Officer Diego Grassano, presented the Lumia Towers by SEN project and the broader tokenization initiative. Their series of presentations, hosted by Webit, CVLabs, and Blue Hat Founders, emphasized how blockchain technology can revolutionize real estate markets and empower global investors.
“This is our debut at Davos, and we’re honored to be here at the invitation of our partner Binance, who has been instrumental in supporting Lumia as the only full-cycle RWA blockchain,” said Yanush Ali, co-founder of Lumia Foundation. “Events like these define global industry trends, and asset tokenization is poised to become a major focus for 2025. That’s why we chose the World Economic Forum as the stage to announce our groundbreaking $220 million twin skyscraper project in Istanbul. This development isn’t just a milestone for us—it’s a statement. We’re tokenizing the entire project, creating Turkey’s first Crypto hub, and setting a new standard for innovation in real estate and blockchain technology.”
Diego Grassano, reflecting on the project’s innovation, remarked: “With Lumia Towers, we are not just building structures; we are building opportunities. Tokenization allows anyone, anywhere, to become a part of something extraordinary.”
Deniz Dalkilic highlighted the blockchain aspect: “Our mission is to create a seamless bridge between Real World Assets and DeFi ecosystems. Lumia Towers is just the beginning of what blockchain can achieve in transforming industries.”
Empowering small investors By tokenizing real estate properties, Lumia Foundation aims to democratize access to high-value investments. Traditional real estate investments often require significant capital, making them inaccessible to smaller investors. However, with the Lumia Towers by SEN project, token ownership begins at just $1, enabling investors worldwide to participate.
This innovation aligns with the growing trend of Real World Assets (RWA), a market projected to reach $10 trillion by 2030. Lumia Foundation’s efforts are further amplified by its collaboration with Binance, with the two organizations sponsoring Webit, a leading technology and innovation event.
A milestone for blockchain and real estate The $1 billion framework agreement between Lumia and SEN Group is a testament to the potential of combining blockchain with real estate development. The construction of Lumia Towers by SEN is not just a step forward for the partnership but a significant contribution to Turkey’s economic growth and global leadership in blockchain innovation.
“This partnership represents the perfect synergy of cutting-edge technology and real-world application,” said Kal Ali, co-founder of Lumia Foundation. “Turkey has enormous potential to set new standards in innovation, and we are proud to be a part of this transformative journey.”
About Lumia Foundation Lumia Foundation is a next-generation blockchain platform focused on tokenizing Real World Assets and integrating them into the DeFi and Web3 ecosystems. Created by US-based visionaries Kal and Yanush Ali, Lumia combines innovative technology with a vision for financial inclusion.
About SEN Group SEN Group is a Turkish real estate developer specializing in sustainable and earthquake-resistant housing. Known for its innovative construction techniques, the company is committed to advancing Turkey’s urban landscape with cutting-edge technologies
Disclaimer: This content is provided byLumia Foundation. The statements, views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the content provider. The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities. Please conduct your own research and invest at your own risk.
Photos accompanying this announcement are available at
Oxford City Council’s Planning Committee approved the planning application for the redevelopment of Oxpens on 21 January 2025.
“After years of land assembly, the redevelopment of Oxpens is an important step forward for Oxford and we’re pleased it has been approved so it can advance to the next stage.
“This is a unique opportunity to redevelop one of the city’s largest remaining brownfield sites and is the largest housing development site in the city centre for generations. It will transform the area and kick start the wider regeneration of Oxford West End, helping it to realise its full potential.
“Oxpens will deliver much-needed housing, with 50% being affordable, provide high-quality office and laboratory space in a highly sustainable location for jobs, a new hotel and public spaces, including an outdoor amphitheater, 750sqm of publicly accessible playspace, and improved walking and cycling routes.
“The plans will create new opportunities for residents and businesses, supporting economic growth and helping to build a better future for our city.”
Councillor Alex Hollingsworth, Cabinet Member Business, Culture and Inclusive Economy
