Emergency responders investigate a reported shooting on Columbus’ Near East Side.
2-Year-Old Critically Injured in East Side Shooting
A 2-year-old child was critically injured in a reported shooting at a residence on Columbus’ Near East Side on the evening of December 22.
The incident was reported at approximately 8:38 p.m. in the 1500 block of East Long Street near Parkwood Avenue. A Columbus Police confirmed the location and time of the call but did not provide additional details. Requests for comment from Columbus Division of Police spokespersons have not yet been answered.
Radio traffic indicated that the child’s grandmother heard a gunshot inside the home and immediately contacted emergency services.
Columbus Fire Division medics arrived at the scene and began life-saving efforts before transporting the toddler to Nationwide Children’s Hospital. The child’s condition has not been officially released.
Authorities have not shared further information as the investigation continues.
This is a developing story. Updates will be published as more details become available.
James Ransone, best known for his role as Ziggy Sobotka on HBO’s The Wire, has died at age 46, according to the medical examiner.
James Ransone portrayed Ziggy Sobotka in HBO’s critically acclaimed series The Wire.
James Ransone, ‘The Wire’ Actor, Dies at 46
Actor James Ransone, widely recognized for his role on HBO’s acclaimed series The Wire, has died at the age of 46, according to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner. Officials said the death is under investigation and has been reported as an apparent suicide.
Ransone rose to prominence in the early 2000s, making his television debut in 2002 before gaining national recognition a year later in the second season of The Wire. He portrayed Ziggy Sobotka, a troubled dockworker whose storyline became one of the show’s most memorable arcs.
Following his breakout role, Ransone built a steady career across television and film. His television appearances included Law & Order, Burn Notice, and Hawaii Five-0. He also appeared in major films such as It: Chapter Two, where he played Eddie Kaspbrak.
His film credits further included Sinister, The Black Phone, and the HBO miniseries Generation Kill, highlighting his versatility across drama, thriller, and horror genres.
In a 2016 interview with Interview Magazine, Ransone spoke openly about past struggles with addiction, discussing the challenges he faced earlier in his life and career.
Born in Baltimore in 1979, Ransone later studied at The School of Visual Arts in New York City before pursuing acting full time.
He is survived by his wife, Jamie McPhee, and their two children.
If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. In the U.S., the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline offers confidential support 24/7.
Protest Against ICE Continues in Columbus as demonstrators rally against ICE enforcement
Protest Against ICE Continues in Columbus amid growing opposition to ICE operations.
Protest Against ICE Continues in Columbus
The protest against ICE continues in Columbus as community members rally against increased immigration enforcement activity across central Ohio.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) confirmed that 10 individuals were arrested as part of Operation Buckeye, an enforcement surge that began on December 16. According to ICE, those taken into custody are from India, Somalia, El Salvador, Honduras, Guatemala, and Mexico, and are alleged to be in the United States without legal authorization.
ICE Director Todd M. Lyons said the agency operates in Ohio regularly but recently deployed additional resources under Operation Buckeye. Officials say arrests made since January 20 include individuals accused or convicted of offenses such as drug possession, burglary, robbery, assault, disorderly conduct, DUI, and attempted abduction. ICE added that several of those detained had long-standing final orders of removal.
As enforcement continues, the protest against ICE continues in Columbus, with demonstrations reported across multiple neighborhoods. On Sunday night, protesters gathered outside the Cambria Hotel in Polaris, voicing opposition to ICE’s presence in the city. Similar protests were reported Saturday near the Embassy Suites in the Westerville area, where ICE agents were believed to be staying.
Demonstrators organized under the slogan “No Sleep for ICE”, using car horns, music, and bells in an effort to disrupt ICE personnel. Organizers said the protests will continue nightly until ICE leaves Columbus.
Earlier Sunday, hundreds of people gathered at Westerville Skatepark, marching through nearby streets while chanting and holding signs demanding an end to what they describe as aggressive immigration enforcement. Many protesters said the ongoing activity has created fear and uncertainty among immigrant families.
Several residents expressed concern that increased ICE operations are impacting community safety and family stability. Protesters emphasized that immigrants are neighbors, workers, and taxpayers who contribute to the local economy and culture.
The demonstrations were organized by the Columbus chapter of the Party for Socialism and Liberation, which encouraged residents to document public interactions involving ICE agents. Organizers said recording encounters helps promote accountability and awareness of individual rights.
Issa Ibrahim Mahat, Advocate of the High Court of Kenya, A New Dawn for Ijara Constituency
Issa Ibrahim Mahat: A New Dawn for Ijara Constituency | 2027 General Election
Ijara Constituency is witnessing the rise of a new leadership era, one defined by accountability, experience, and a deep commitment to public service. Among the most notable emerging leaders is Issa Ibrahim Mahat (popularly known as Wakili), a young yet highly accomplished professional positioning himself as a strong contender for Member of Parliament, Ijara Constituency, in the 2027 general election in Kenya.
With strong community roots and a clear development-driven vision, Issa represents a fresh and credible alternative for constituents seeking effective national representation.
A Distinguished Legal Career with National Impact
Issa Ibrahim Mahat is an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya and the Founder and Managing Partner of Issa Mahat & Company Advocates. Since being admitted to the Bar in 2016, he has built a reputation anchored on integrity, professionalism, and service to the public.
His national appointments reflect confidence in his leadership and expertise:
Secretary, Capital Markets Tribunal (2020): In this role, Issa supported dispute resolution and regulatory oversight within Kenya’s financial markets, a position requiring impartial judgment and high ethical standards.
Technical Committee Member, Building Bridges Initiative (BBI): Appointed in January 2020, he actively participated in nationwide public engagement forums, gaining firsthand insight into grassroots concerns, governance reform, and national cohesion.
These roles sharpened his understanding of governance, policy-making, and citizen-centered leadership.
Academic and Professional Foundation
Issa’s leadership journey is reinforced by a solid legal education:
Kenya School of Law – Postgraduate Diploma in Law (2014)
University of Nairobi – Bachelor of Laws (LL.B), Honours (2012)
His academic background has shaped his firm belief in justice, accountability, and the rule of law as essential drivers of sustainable development.
Community Endorsement and Cultural Legitimacy
In Ijara’s cultural context, endorsement from maternal uncles and respected elders carries profound significance. Issa enjoys strong backing from his maternal uncles, community elders, and key stakeholders who view him as disciplined, grounded, and ready for leadership.
This support underscores his strong upbringing, moral standing, and acceptance across generational lines within the community.
Why Issa Ibrahim Mahat Stands Out for Ijara 2027
Youthful Energy with Proven Experience Issa brings a rare balance of dynamism and national-level exposure.
Effective Advocate for Community Needs He understands Ijara’s challenges and is prepared to pursue impactful legislation.
Champion of Unity and Inclusive Development His BBI (BuildingBridges Initiative) experience strengthened his commitment to cohesion and shared progress.
Strong Governance and Accountability Focus His legal and regulatory background equips him to safeguard public resources.
Clear Development Agenda for Ijara His vision prioritizes infrastructure, healthcare, education, youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, and economic growth that benefits every household.
A New Dawn for Ijara
Dalmar TV recognizes Issa Ibrahim Mahat as part of Kenya’s emerging generation of leader’s professionals who combine competence, humility, and a genuine desire to serve.
Backed by elders, embraced by the youth, and guided by a strong ethical foundation, Issa enters the 2027 race as more than a candidate. He represents renewal, hope, and forward-looking leadership for the people of Ijara.
Ohio cannabis advocates are seeking a statewide referendum to stop Senate Bill 56, arguing the new marijuana law contradicts the will of Ohio voters.
Ohioans for Cannabis Choice launch a referendum campaign to block changes to Ohio’s cannabis law.
Ohio Cannabis Advocates Push Referendum to Block Senate Bill 56
Columbus, Ohio – Ohio cannabis advocacy groups are moving to block a newly passed marijuana law by taking it directly to voters through a statewide referendum.
On Friday afternoon, Ohioans for Cannabis Choice announced plans to challenge Senate Bill 56, a measure signed into law the same day that significantly alters Ohio’s recreational cannabis framework. The group argues the legislation contradicts the will of Ohio voters, who approved recreational marijuana use in 2023 with 57% support.
Senate Bill 56 introduces stricter penalties for certain cannabis-related activities, including transporting marijuana outside a vehicle’s trunk and consuming cannabis in public spaces. The law applies to all forms of cannabis, including edibles that were previously legal to use in public. It also creates new regulatory standards for intoxicating hemp, which falls outside Ohio’s legal definition of marijuana and is sold outside licensed dispensaries.
Dennis Willard, a spokesperson for Ohioans for Cannabis Choice, said the organization is launching the referendum to prevent the law from taking effect as scheduled in March.
According to state law, the group must collect 250,000 valid signatures from registered Ohio voters before the legislation’s effective date. The process begins with an initial petition requiring at least 1,000 verified signatures, which must be approved by the Ohio Secretary of State. After approval, organizers must gather an additional 248,092 signatures, representing 6% of turnout in the last gubernatorial election. The campaign must also meet county-level requirements in at least 44 of Ohio’s 88 counties.
Governor Mike DeWine issued a line-item veto removing a provision that would have permitted the sale of THC-infused beverages—an intoxicating hemp product. At the federal level, products containing 0.4 milligrams of THC or more were banned in November. The veto eliminated protections that would have allowed such products to remain legal in Ohio through 2026.
DeWine has consistently advocated for tighter regulation of intoxicating hemp, citing concerns that minimal oversight makes these products easily accessible to minors.
Industry leaders warn the law could have major economic consequences. Advocates say intoxicating hemp has been legal in Ohio since 2018 and supports thousands of jobs. Michael Tindall, executive director of the Ohio Healthy Alternatives Association, estimates the state could lose more than 20,000 jobs, 5,000 businesses, and up to $1 billion in economic activity if the law moves forward.
The referendum campaign has a 90-day window to complete the petition process. If approved, Senate Bill 56 would be paused until Ohio voters can decide its future in a statewide election.
President Donald Trump’s administration has ordered an immediate pause of the Diversity Visa (DV-1) Green Card Lottery Program.
The Department of Homeland Security has ordered USCIS to pause the Diversity Visa Green Card Lottery pending review.
Green card lottery suspended
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has announced an immediate pause of the Diversity Visa (DV-1) Green Card Lottery Program following concerns raised about national security.
According to a statement shared by the Secretary of Homeland Security, the individual responsible for the Brown University shooting, identified as Claudio Manuel Neves Valente, entered the United States in 2017 through the Diversity Immigrant Visa Program and was later granted lawful permanent residency.
The Secretary stated that this development has renewed longstanding concerns about the program. During his first term, President Donald Trump previously pushed to end the Diversity Visa Lottery after the 2017 New York City truck attack, in which an ISIS-inspired terrorist who also entered the U.S. through the DV-1 program, killed eight people.
Acting under President Trump’s directive, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has been instructed to halt the program while a review is conducted. The administration says the pause is intended to prevent further risks to public safety and reassess the effectiveness of the immigration screening process tied to the lottery system.
The Brown University shooter, Claudio Manuel Neves Valente entered the United States through the diversity lottery immigrant visa program (DV1) in 2017 and was granted a green card. This heinous individual should never have been allowed in our country.
Columbus Leaders Say Police Not Assisting ICE Operations
Columbus, Ohio – Columbus city officials and police leaders reaffirmed Wednesday that local law enforcement is not cooperating with federal immigration authorities, even as reports of increased immigration enforcement activity circulate across the city.
Speaking on Dec. 18, Mayor Andrew Ginther, Columbus Division of Police Chief Elaine Bryant, City Attorney Zach Klein, and other officials stressed that no city resources are being used to assist U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Mayor Ginther pointed to recent crime data showing declines in homicides, shootings, felonious assaults, and burglaries, saying the city is safer now than it has been in years. He warned that federal immigration enforcement could erode trust that local leaders and police have worked to rebuild within the community.
“These numbers matter because they show Columbus is safer,” Ginther said, adding that fear-driven actions could undermine progress made between residents and law enforcement.
Ginther encouraged members of the immigrant community to carry federal identification when possible and keep emergency contact information readily available. He also advised memorizing important phone numbers in case access to a mobile phone is lost.
City leaders also urged residents to be cautious when sharing photos, videos, or reports of suspected ICE activity. Ginther said unverified information can heighten fear and confusion. “Columbus will not be a vehicle for fear,” he said.
Chief Bryant reiterated that Columbus police officers will not assist ICE in immigration enforcement and will not question or investigate individuals based solely on immigration status. Officers will only intervene in cases involving criminal activity or a judge-signed warrant.
The city’s policy of non-cooperation with federal immigration enforcement dates back to 2017, when Ginther signed an executive order during President Donald Trump’s first term. That policy was later formally adopted by Columbus City Council.
ICE maintains an office in Columbus and regularly conducts arrests. In a statement issued by an ICE spokesperson from the agency’s Detroit office, officials said they continue to arrest individuals they describe as criminal offenders across Columbus, Ohio, and the United States as part of ongoing public safety efforts.
Bryant emphasized that residents should continue to feel safe contacting police or calling 911. She added that the city was not notified in advance of any increased federal enforcement activity and has received no details from federal agencies regarding locations or operations.
President Donald Trump announces a $1,776 “warrior dividend” for U.S. service members as inflation and economic confidence remain key voter concerns.
President Donald Trump announces military payments
Trump Announces $1,776 “Warrior Dividend” Military Payments
U.S. President Donald Trump has announced a one-time $1,776 payment for American military service members, calling it a “warrior dividend” funded in part through tariff revenue and recent federal legislation.
In a nationally televised address Wednesday night, President Trump said the payments are already being issued and are expected to arrive before Christmas. The initiative is set to benefit approximately 1.45 million U.S. service members, with total distributions amounting to about $2.57 billion.
Trump said the payments are intended to honor the nation’s founding in 1776 and are being financed through revenue generated by his administration’s sweeping tariff policies, as well as funding from legislation he signed into law on July 4, referred to as the “One Big, Beautiful Bill.”
During the 18-minute address, the president highlighted what he described as progress on the economy and immigration, while strongly criticizing Democrats and former President Joe Biden. Trump claimed consumer prices are falling, even as many Americans continue to express frustration over the cost of housing, childcare, and healthcare.
While some prices—such as fuel and eggs—have declined in recent months, other essential goods remain costly. Economic data from September shows inflation rose to 3% for the first time since January, while consumer confidence declined amid concerns over jobs, household expenses, and the broader economy.
Recent polling reflects those concerns. Surveys from Politico and CBS News/YouGov show that many voters believe the cost of living is at its highest point in their lifetime. Approval of Trump’s handling of economic issues has also declined since early spring.
The president has previously acknowledged that inflation concerns played a role in Republican losses in recent elections and noted that incumbent administrations often face challenges heading into midterm elections, which are scheduled for next year.
As the White House works to address voter anxiety over prices, the administration continues to promote Republican-led initiatives, including tax reforms passed earlier this year, which Trump says will benefit Americans in the coming months.
Nearly a year into his second term, some Americans say they have yet to see the immediate improvements Trump promised during his re-election campaign. Still, the president framed the coming year—marking the nation’s 250th anniversary—as a moment of renewal.
Trump closed the address by expressing confidence in America’s global standing, saying the country is regaining respect and positioning itself for a stronger future.
Americans Rate President Donald Trump on Immigration and the Economy
Americans rate President Donald Trump on immigration and the economy
New Poll Reveals How Americans Rate President Trump on Immigration and the Economy
A new national survey highlights how Americans view President Donald Trump’s performance on key issues, with public opinion split between immigration policy and economic leadership.
According to a poll conducted by Emerson College Polling, nearly half of Americans approve of President Trump’s handling of immigration. The survey of 1,000 adults found that 47% gave the president a grade of “A” or “B” for immigration, while 45% rated his performance poorly with a “D” or “F.”
Public opinion was less favorable when it came to the economy. Only 41% of respondents awarded President Trump a passing grade on economic performance, while 47% gave him a failing mark. Concerns over affordability including the cost of housing, groceries, and everyday expenses drew even sharper criticism. Just 36% approved of Trump’s handling of affordability, while a majority of 51% issued failing grades.
The poll also measured public sentiment on national security actions. About 45% of those surveyed said U.S. military strikes on suspected drug trafficking boats in the Caribbean were justified, while 42% said they were not.
In addition, Americans were asked to share their opinions on prominent political and public figures. Vice President JD Vance received the highest favorability rating among those listed, with 46% of respondents viewing him favorably and 41% unfavorably. Business leader Elon Musk followed, earning a 40% favorable rating and a 46% unfavorable rating. House Speaker Mike Johnson recorded a 35% favorable rating, with 38% expressing unfavorable views.
Among Democratic leaders who could emerge as contenders in the 2028 presidential race, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and California Governor Gavin Newsom each posted a 33% favorability rating. Newsom carried a higher unfavorable rating at 44%, while Shapiro’s stood at 27%. New York Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez also received mixed reactions, with 32% viewing her favorably and 44% unfavorably.
The survey found growing support for marijuana legalization nationwide. Sixty-five percent of respondents said they support legalizing marijuana, marking a five-point increase from an Emerson College Poll conducted in October 2024.
Views were more divided on data center development. Only 34% of voters said they would support building a data center in their community, while 42% expressed opposition. Resistance was particularly strong in the Midwest, where 49% of respondents said they opposed local data center projects.
The findings underscore a deeply divided electorate as Americans continue to weigh leadership, economic pressures, and policy priorities ahead of future elections.
According to a Columbus Police Department incident report, officers responded to an outpatient medical facility on Leonard Avenue following reports of a domestic violence case. Authorities spoke with the victim, who stated that the incident began on the evening of December 15 and continued into the following morning.
Police say the suspect, identified as 41-year-old Terron Tolber, allegedly assaulted the woman during an argument at a residence in the Mt. Vernon neighborhood, located east of downtown Columbus. The victim reported multiple forms of physical abuse over several hours and told officers she lost consciousness at one point during the incident.
Detectives observed visible injuries on the victim’s body, including bruising to her arms, hands, and legs. Investigators estimate the incident lasted approximately nine to ten hours before the suspect stopped. The woman was transported from the outpatient facility to a hospital, where she was treated and listed in stable condition.
Tolber was taken into custody on Tuesday and appeared in Franklin County Municipal Court the following day. He is facing a kidnapping charge with allegations of terrorizing and threatening serious harm. A judge set bond at $750,000 and scheduled a preliminary hearing for December 23.
