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Cleophus Cooksey Jr., 43, was found guilty last week of multiple murders, kidnapping, armed robbery, and sexual assault linked to a three-week crime spree in 2017. Evidence connected him to victims including his mother, stepfather, and strangers. The trial was delayed by the pandemic and began in September 2025.
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Mississippi's education system shows signs of decline, with lower school ratings and challenges in teacher certification. Recent test score drops and difficulties in teacher licensing threaten ongoing progress, raising concerns about future educational quality in the state.
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The FBI has dismissed roughly 20 agents who were photographed kneeling during a 2020 racial justice protest in Washington, D.C. The firings follow a broader purge under Director Kash Patel, amid internal disputes over investigations involving Trump and Jan. 6. The move raises concerns over political influence within the bureau.
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Incumbent mayor Jacob Frey secures a third term after ranked-choice voting concluded, defeating state senator Omar Fateh. Frey led initially but did not reach 50%, with the final tally confirming his victory. The election set a record for voter turnout, with over 147,000 votes cast amid a competitive field.
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Jessica Adams, a university social work lecturer, was temporarily suspended after a student complaint led to an investigation into her use of a graphic depicting white supremacy. The incident was triggered by a political intervention and raises concerns over academic freedom and legislation on intellectual diversity.
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Jimmie Duncan, convicted in 1998 of killing 23-month-old Haley Oliveaux, has had his conviction vacated after new evidence discredited forensic bite mark analysis. Duncan was released on bail as his case awaits review by the Louisiana Supreme Court. The case highlights issues with flawed forensic evidence and wrongful convictions.