Point-checking the White House’s statement saying Roger Stone’s commutation

Published

4 years ago

July 11, 2020

roger stone prison sentence commuted donald trump toobin bharara sot ac360 vpx_00000711

The extraordinary act of clemency was introduced by White Dwelling push secretary Kayleigh McEnany. She released a lengthy statement that was littered with lies and false claims about the Russia investigation, particular counsel Robert Mueller and the aspects of Stone’s lawful situation.

Stone was convicted in November of lying to Congress, obstructing its inquiry into Russian meddling in the 2016 election and threatening a witness who could have exposed his lies. The commutation erases Stone’s prison sentence — but the responsible verdicts continue being on the textbooks.

Here’s a breakdown of 12 baseless promises from the White Household assertion.

Statement FROM THE Press SECRETARY About Executive GRANT OF CLEMENCY FOR ROGER STONE, JR.

“Now, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Grant of Clemency commuting the unjust sentence of Roger Stone, Jr. Roger Stone is a target of the Russia Hoax that the Still left and its allies in the media perpetuated for decades in an endeavor to undermine the Trump Presidency.”

The Russia investigation was not a hoax, and it did not originate from Democrats or the media. The investigation started in July 2016 soon after the FBI been given a tip about probable coordination amongst the Trump campaign and the Russian govt. The FBI director at the time was James Comey, a Republican.
Later, just after Trump fired Comey in Could 2017, the Trump-appointed Deputy Legal professional Standard Rod Rosenstein appointed Robert Mueller as distinctive counsel to carry on the investigation. Rosenstein and Mueller are both of those Republicans. The Justice Division inspector standard reported the probe was legally opened in 2016.

“There was in no way any collusion among the Trump Marketing campaign, or the Trump Administration, with Russia. Such collusion was in no way something other than a fantasy of partisans unable to acknowledge the end result of the 2016 election. The collusion delusion spawned limitless and farcical investigations, executed at excellent taxpayer price, on the lookout for proof that did not exist.”

Mueller’s ultimate report did not conclude that there “was in no way any collusion.” Collusion is not a legal time period. Mueller investigated no matter whether any Trump associates criminally conspired with Russians pertaining to the election. Mueller claimed the investigation “did not create that users of the Trump Campaign conspired or coordinated with the Russian federal government in its election interference actions.”
The investigation did unearth dozens of contacts involving Trump marketing campaign associates and Russians, even though Trump repeatedly denied to the public that there was any conversation prior to the election.

“As it turned distinct that these witch hunts would by no means bear fruit, the Specific Counsel’s Place of work resorted to system-primarily based costs leveled at significant-profile persons in an try to manufacture the fake impact of criminality lurking below the floor. These expenses had been the product or service of recklessness borne of frustration and malice.”

There is no evidence in anyway that Mueller’s staff brought expenses since they ended up biased against Trump or had “malice” towards his aides. Various federal judges dominated that the indictments Mueller’s team brought from Trump’s associates — together with Stone — ended up legal and constitutional.

“This is why the out-of-regulate Mueller prosecutors, desperate for splashy headlines to compensate for a failed investigation, set their sights on Mr. Stone.”

Mueller’s group was supervised by Rosenstein and later by acting Lawyer Typical Matt Whitaker, and in its remaining months by Lawyer Common William Barr. If Mueller or any member of his team broke Justice Department guidelines, they could have been reassigned or terminated by Rosenstein, Whitaker or Barr.
Also, there is nothing at all in the general public history to aid the claim that Mueller’s crew “established their sights” on Stone in the late phases of the investigation. In actuality, in accordance to unsealed search warrants, Mueller acquired lookup warrants against Stone in summertime 2017, months after taking around the investigation.

“Roger Stone is perfectly identified for his just about 50 several years of get the job done as a expert for higher-profile Republican politicians, which include President Ronald Reagan, Senator Bob Dole, and a lot of other people. He is also perfectly known for his outspoken guidance for President Donald J. Trump and opposition to Hillary Clinton.”

Stone’s assistance for Trump was not the reason he was billed. At Stone’s sentencing hearing, the judge claimed: “He was not convicted and is not getting sentenced for doing exercises his Initial Amendment rights, his help of the President’s campaign or his policies. He was not prosecuted, as some have complained, for standing up for the President. He was prosecuted for masking up for the President.”

“Mr. Stone was charged by the very same prosecutors from the Mueller Investigation tasked with getting proof of collusion with Russia. Since no this sort of proof exists, however, they could not charge him for any collusion-related crime. Instead, they billed him for his carry out all through their investigation. The easy actuality is that if the Unique Counsel experienced not been pursuing an completely baseless investigation, Mr. Stone would not be experiencing time in jail.”

Mueller’s team was not only tasked with searching for opportunity Trump-Russia coordination. They ended up also approved by Rosenstein to look into “any issues that arose or could occur specifically from that investigation.” Stone’s lies to Congress about his endeavours to assist the Trump marketing campaign capitalize on Russian meddling in the 2016 election was an obvious and all-natural avenue for Mueller’s investigates to pursue.
The argument that “Stone would be not going through time in prison” if it wasn’t for an “totally baseless investigation” defies logic. First, the Russia investigation was identified by the Justice Office to be correctly predicated. 2nd, if Stone hadn’t lied to Congress, it can be most likely he wouldn’t have been billed at all. Mueller investigated other sides of Stone’s routines, but declined to carry rates.

“In addition to charging Mr. Stone with alleged crimes arising only from their possess poor investigation, the Mueller prosecutors also took pains to make a community and shameful spectacle of his arrest.”

These crimes are not simply “alleged.” Stone was convicted by a jury on 7 counts. He is attractive his conviction and maintains his innocence. But the crimes are no for a longer period mere “allegations” by prosecutors. Also, the commutation would not erase these convictions from Stone’s history.

“Mr. Stone is a 67-12 months-aged male, with a lot of health-related circumstances, who had in no way been convicted of one more crime. But somewhat than allow him to surrender himself, they utilised dozens of FBI brokers with automated weapons and tactical tools, armored motor vehicles, and an amphibious unit to execute a pre-dawn raid of his home, the place he was with his wife of several yrs. Notably, CNN cameras ended up existing to broadcast these occasions dwell to the entire world, even though they swore they have been not notified—it was just a coincidence that they had been tlere collectively with the FBI early in the morning.”

Trump, Stone and their allies in ideal-wing media have consistently promoted the conspiracy theory that Mueller’s crew leaked info about Stone’s arrest to CNN. This is not accurate.
Mueller’s team manufactured documentation to the court docket that CNN was not tipped off, and CNN’s possess reporting on its determination-building showed that stakeout at Stone’s dwelling was based on a hunch. The direct prosecutor on the Stone scenario later testified less than oath to Congress that Mueller’s staff was not leaking to the media.

“Not only was Mr. Stone charged by overzealous prosecutors pursing a scenario that never need to have existed, and arrested in an procedure that by no means ought to have been authorized, but there were also severe queries about the jury in the case. The forewoman of his jury, for case in point, hid the truth that she is a member of the so-identified as liberal ‘resistance’ to the Trump Presidency. In now-deleted tweets, this activist-juror vividly and overtly attacked President Trump and his supporters.”

The judge rejected lots of of these arguments and dominated that there was no jury misconduct. Even immediately after her ruling, Stone and Trump ongoing repeating the debunked statements that there was misconduct. In asking for a new trial, Stone designed lots of of these very same factors about alleged bias but the judge rebuffed him.
Also, it’s a stretch to describe Mueller’s workforce as “overzealous prosecutors.” They confirmed incredible deference to Trump, allowing for him to submit prepared testimony, declining to subpoena him for a deposition, and adhering to Justice Division recommendations that he can’t be indicted as president, even although that is not settled law. They also investigated, but declined to prosecute, Trump’s son Donald Trump Jr. for soliciting political dust from Russians at the controversial Trump Tower meeting.

“Mr. Stone would be place at major clinical threat in jail.”

The decide in this case questioned this claim when Stone produced it before this month, making an attempt to delay the prison sentence. Stone’s attorneys submitted a motion expressing that he has major healthcare disorders, but the choose stated their filing “does not discover any professional medical situation or situations or consist of any non-public medical data.”
She pointed out that there is not a huge coronavirus outbreak extra fat the federal jail in Georgia exactly where Stone was intended to serve his sentence. A federal appeals court upheld that ruling on Friday, clearing the way for Stone to report to jail. Trump’s commutation shields Stone from jail.

“He has appealed his conviction and is trying to get a new trial. He maintains his innocence and has said that he expects to be completely exonerated by the justice method. Mr. Stone, like each and every American, deserves a truthful demo and each option to vindicate himself before the courts.”

The decide currently dominated that the trial was truthful and there was no misconduct by the jury. Stone is desirable his case and has elevated quite a few of the exact concerns about the jury in his filings with the appeals panel.

“The President does not desire to interfere with his endeavours to do so. At this time, having said that, and notably in mild of the egregious specifics and conditions bordering his unfair prosecution, arrest, and demo, the President has determined to commute his sentence. Roger Stone has now endured significantly. He was treated very unfairly, as have been numerous other individuals in this circumstance. Roger Stone is now a free gentleman!”

Even Barr has stated that this was a “righteous” prosecution and that the punishment he gained, of 40 months in prison, “was truthful.”
One of the occupation Justice Department prosecutors testified to Congress that Stone been given specific remedy due to the fact he was a shut ally and supporter of the President. This testimony, from prosecutor Aaron Zelinsky, severely undercuts the declare that Stone was taken care of unfairly. Zelinsky stop the situation in February immediately after Barr intervened to water down the Justice Department’s sentencing advice for Stone. The primary recommendation adopted plan suggestions and termed for seven to 9 decades in jail.

CNN’s Katelyn Polantz contributed to this short article.

Goodwin Townsend

General internet buff. Hardcore music maven. Typical foodaholic. Friendly student.

All Your Acrylic Nail Questions Answered: From Application to Care

Published

2 months ago

October 16, 2024

Herb Adkins

Acrylic nails are a popular choice for those looking to add length, strength, and style to their natural nails. Whether you’re new to the world of acrylics or a seasoned nail enthusiast, there are always questions that arise about the application, maintenance, and overall care of these enhancements. This guide will answer all your acrylic nail questions to ensure your next manicure is a complete success.

What Are Acrylic Nails?

Acrylic nails are artificial nail enhancements made from a mixture of liquid monomer and powder polymer. When combined, they form a hard protective layer that can be molded into various shapes and lengths. Once hardened, they provide a durable and long-lasting canvas for nail polish, art, or simply a natural look. For more in-depth information, check out Acrylic Nail FAQs to get all the details you need before your next salon visit.

How Are Acrylic Nails Applied?

The application process of acrylic nails begins with the preparation of your natural nails. The nail technician will clean your nails, file them down, and apply a bonding agent to help the acrylic adhere. The acrylic mixture is then applied in thin layers, sculpted to the desired shape, and allowed to dry. Once set, the nails are filed, shaped, and buffed to a smooth finish.

Acrylic nails can be customized in terms of length and shape, making them a versatile choice for anyone looking to enhance their look.

How Long Do Acrylic Nails Last?

Typically, acrylic nails can last anywhere from two to three weeks before requiring a fill. During a fill, the nail technician will replace any grown-out acrylic and maintain the structure of the nails. With proper care, acrylic nails can be worn for extended periods, but it’s essential to give your natural nails a break occasionally to maintain nail health.

How Do You Care for Acrylic Nails?

Caring for acrylic nails is crucial to ensuring they last as long as possible and that your natural nails remain healthy underneath. Here are some essential tips:

Avoid excessive water exposure: Prolonged exposure to water can weaken acrylic nails, making them prone to lifting or damage. When washing dishes or cleaning, consider wearing gloves to protect your nails.
Moisturize cuticles regularly: The acrylic application process can sometimes dry out your cuticles. Regularly apply cuticle oil to keep your cuticles hydrated and prevent hangnails.
Be gentle with your nails: Acrylics can be strong, but they’re not indestructible. Avoid using your nails as tools to open packages or scrape things, as this can lead to breakage.
Schedule regular fills: As your natural nails grow, gaps will appear between the acrylic and your cuticles. Regular fills ensure your nails maintain a smooth, polished look and help prevent lifting.

How Do You Remove Acrylic Nails Safely?

Proper removal is crucial to avoid damaging your natural nails. It’s highly recommended to have acrylics removed by a professional at the salon. However, if you prefer to remove them at home, follow these steps:

Soak in acetone: Start by soaking a cotton ball in acetone, then place it on each nail. Wrap your fingers in aluminum foil and allow the acetone to work for about 20 minutes.
Gently scrape off the acrylic: After soaking, use a cuticle pusher or an orange stick to gently scrape off the softened acrylic. Be patient and avoid forcing the acrylic off, as this can damage your natural nails.
Buff and moisturize: Once the acrylic is completely removed, buff your natural nails to smooth out any rough spots and apply cuticle oil to restore moisture.

Are Acrylic Nails Safe for Your Natural Nails?

When applied and removed properly, acrylic nails should not cause significant damage to your natural nails. However, improper removal or overuse without giving your nails time to breathe can lead to thinning, weakening, or breakage of your natural nails.

If you plan on wearing acrylic nails long-term, it’s a good idea to take breaks between applications and ensure you’re nourishing your nails with oils and treatments.

What Are the Best Acrylic Nail Shapes?

Choosing the right nail shape is essential for creating a look that complements your hands. Some of the most popular acrylic nail shapes include:

– Square: A straight-edged, classic look perfect for shorter nails.

– Oval: A soft, rounded shape that elongates the fingers.

– Coffin: Also known as ballerina shape, this trendy look features a tapered edge with a flat tip.

– Stiletto: A dramatic, pointy shape ideal for those who want a bold statement.

Each shape offers a unique aesthetic and can be tailored to suit your personal style.

Are There Any Alternatives to Acrylic Nails?

If you’re looking for a different type of nail enhancement, consider these alternatives:

– Gel nails: Gel nails offer a glossy finish and are cured under UV or LED light. They’re less rigid than acrylics and can feel more natural.

– Dip powder: This method involves dipping the nails into a colored powder and sealing them with a clear coat. It provides a similar look to acrylics but is generally less damaging to the natural nails.

Conclusion

Acrylic nails are a versatile and durable option for achieving customized, beautiful nails. By understanding the application process, knowing how to care for them, and safely removing them, you can enjoy long-lasting manicures that enhance your style. With the ability to choose from a variety of shapes and designs, acrylic nails offer endless possibilities for self-expression. Remember to take care of your natural nails in between applications to keep them healthy and strong. Whether you’re a first-time user or a seasoned pro, acrylic nails can be a fantastic way to express your personality and keep your nails looking flawless for weeks.

Herb Adkins

Proud web evangelist. Travel ninja. Creator. Freelance food nerd. Passionate bacon fanatic.

Jacqueline Troost Omvlee – A Tool in the Hands of the Russian Elite

Published

3 months ago

September 26, 2024

Herb Adkins

When sanctions were imposed on Russia for its war against Ukraine, their objectives were twofold: to reduce Russian military capacity by limiting modern weapons and to lower Russian revenue streams. While in the beginning, the sanctions indeed weakened the Russian economy, they have fallen short of their initial objectives – mostly because Russia has found ways to circumvent many of them. The Kremlin has exploited international corruption, relied on foreign third parties, and utilized loopholes in trade restrictions. One such individual who allegedly provides services to Russian-linked companies is Jacqueline Troost Omvlee, a Geneva-based Dutch citizen.

Jacqueline Troost Omvlee is married to Niels Troost, an oil trader sanctioned by the United Kingdom. He and his company, Paramount Energy & Commodities SA, are among the 50 individuals and organizations blacklisted in response to the business connections with Russia. His wife, Jacqueline, helps to facilitate financial transactions for Niles Troost and Russian oligarchs including Gennady Timchenko, a Russian billionaire oil trader and Putin`s close associate.

Gennady Timchenko and his family have been sanctioned in many countries for backing the Kremlin’s war machine. However, with the help of Jacqueline Troost Omvlee, he seems to find ways to evade sanctions and continue his financial operations. In these illegal schemes, individuals like Jacqueline often serve as a front person for sanctioned oligarchs and their business assets. Russian-linked companies set up subsidiaries around the world, often registering new entities in offshore havens or countries where regulations are relatively lax or non-existent. To obfuscate the arrangements, the daughter companies spawn offspring in the form of subsidiaries, as the chain of concealment stretches on and on. The result is like a giant Matryoshka doll.

Jacqueline’s involvement in financial transactions that potentially support Timchenko’s interests raises significant concerns about the efficacy of Western sanctions. The fact that Jacqueline Troost Omvlee continues to operate without facing sanctions herself highlights a significant loophole in the enforcement mechanism. Various shady schemes and tactics designed to circumvent sanctions often hide the activity of individuals such as Jacqueline, making it difficult for authorities to detect and punish them for their involvement.

Jacqueline Troost Omvlee’s role in her husband’s financial dealings as well as her alleged ties to Russian business schemes, emphasizes the need for stronger international sanctions. Her actions not only aid in sanctions evasion but also diminish the overall effectiveness of the measures designed to isolate and pressure those supporting the Russian regime. Therefore, sanctioning Jacqueline Troost Omvlee is not only a matter of addressing her individual actions but also a necessary step to reinforce the credibility and effectiveness of the sanctions regime. By targeting individuals who play a key role in evading sanctions, authorities can send a strong message that efforts to undermine international sanctions will not go unpunished. This measure is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the sanctions system and ensuring that it achieves its intended goal of isolating and restraining those who support destabilizing activities.

European countries and the US need to expand their sanctions-tracking and investigative actions to improve the monitoring of sanctions compliance and to introduce new measures against systematic violators of law. The sanctioning states have the resources and capacity for this, and need to take action now.

Herb Adkins

Proud web evangelist. Travel ninja. Creator. Freelance food nerd. Passionate bacon fanatic.

Hermann’s Tortoise Lifespan: How to Ensure a Long, Healthy Life

Published

3 months ago

September 16, 2024

Herb Adkins

Ensuring a long and healthy life for your Hermann’s Tortoise requires a combination of proper care, nutrition, and habitat management. Hermann’s Tortoises, known for their charming personalities and distinctive shells, can live for several decades with the right conditions. Understanding their needs and providing a suitable environment is key to helping them thrive. Here’s how you can support your Hermann’s Tortoise in living a long, happy life.

Creating an Optimal Habitat

One of the most critical factors in promoting the longevity of your Hermann’s Tortoise is the creation of a suitable habitat. Providing an environment that mimics their natural surroundings is essential for their overall health. An appropriate habitat helps prevent stress and supports their well-being. For detailed guidance on setting up an ideal habitat, including specific requirements for outdoor enclosures, visit this comprehensive guide on Habitat for Hermann’s Tortoise.

Outdoor Enclosure: Hermann’s Tortoises thrive in outdoor enclosures that provide ample space to roam, bask, and forage. An outdoor setup should include a secure, predator-proof area with access to natural sunlight. Incorporate areas for basking and shade to allow the tortoise to regulate its body temperature. Additionally, include plants, rocks, and hiding spots to simulate their natural habitat and encourage natural behaviors.
Indoor Habitat: If an outdoor enclosure is not feasible, an indoor habitat can also support a long lifespan if set up correctly. Use a large, well-ventilated enclosure with appropriate heating and UVB lighting. Provide a substrate that allows for burrowing and offer various hiding spots and enrichment items.

Diet and Nutrition

A balanced diet is vital for maintaining the health and longevity of your Hermann’s Tortoise. They are primarily herbivores, and their diet should reflect their natural feeding habits.

Leafy Greens: Offer a variety of leafy greens such as kale, collard greens, and dandelion greens. These vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals that support overall health.
Vegetables and Fruits: Supplement their diet with other vegetables like carrots, squash, and bell peppers. Fruits should be given in moderation due to their high sugar content.
Calcium and Supplements: Provide a calcium supplement to support shell and bone health. A cuttlebone or powdered calcium can be added to their food. Ensure that they also have access to fresh, clean water at all times.

Regular Health Checks

Routine health checks are essential for early detection of potential health issues. Regular veterinary visits help ensure your tortoise remains in optimal condition and addresses any health concerns promptly.

Observation: Monitor your tortoise’s behavior and physical condition regularly. Changes in appetite, weight, or activity level can indicate health problems.
Preventative Care: Schedule annual check-ups with a veterinarian experienced in reptile care. Regular exams help catch any issues early and keep vaccinations and other preventative treatments up to date.

Environmental Enrichment

Providing environmental enrichment helps keep your Hermann’s Tortoise mentally stimulated and active. Enrichment can reduce stress and prevent boredom, contributing to a better quality of life.

Foraging Opportunities: Hide food items around the enclosure to encourage natural foraging behavior. This not only provides mental stimulation but also mimics their natural hunting practices.
Variety: Change the layout of their enclosure periodically and introduce new objects or plants to keep their environment interesting and engaging.

Conclusion

By focusing on creating the right habitat, providing a balanced diet, ensuring regular health checks, and offering environmental enrichment, you can significantly enhance the lifespan and well-being of your Hermann’s Tortoise. For further details on creating an ideal habitat, including tips for designing an outdoor enclosure, refer to this helpful guide on Habitat for Hermann’s Tortoise. Implementing these practices will help ensure that your tortoise enjoys a long, healthy life.

Herb Adkins

Proud web evangelist. Travel ninja. Creator. Freelance food nerd. Passionate bacon fanatic.