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Tag: abuse

  • PGMOL ‘appalled’ by Michael Oliver abuse after Arsenal red


    The police have launched investigations into “threats and abuse” aimed at referee Michael Oliver and his family after Myles Lewis-Skelly‘s controversial red card in Arsenal‘s 1-0 victory at Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday.

    Oliver sent off Lewis-Skelly in the 43rd minute, with the Arsenal full-back deemed to have committed a serious foul play challenge on Matt Doherty.

    The decision, which was supported by the VAR, received widespread criticism from pundits and supporters. Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta said he was “absolutely fuming” about Lewis-Skelly’s dismissal.

    Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL), the body in charge of refereeing in English football, issued a statement on Sunday evening to reveal that Oliver had been subjected to attacks.

    “We are appalled by the threats and abuse directed at Michael Oliver following the Wolverhampton Wanderers v Arsenal fixture,” PGMOL’s statement read. “No official should be subject to any form of abuse, let alone the abhorrent attacks aimed at Michael and his family over the past 24 hours.

    “The police are aware, and a number of investigations have commenced. We are supporting Michael, and all those affected, and are determined to tackle this unacceptable behaviour.

    “Sadly, this is not the first time a match official has been forced to deal with threats in recent times. We will continue to support all investigations.”

    Mike Dean took a step away from refereeing for a short period in 2021 after reporting death threats to the police. It came after a controversial decision to send off West Ham United midfielder Tomás Soucek against Fulham.



    The Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) has expressed their dismay and shock at the abuse directed towards referee Michael Oliver following his decision to send off Arsenal player Granit Xhaka in a recent match.

    In a statement released by PGMOL, they condemned the abusive language and threats aimed at Oliver, stating that such behavior is completely unacceptable and has no place in football. They emphasized the importance of respecting match officials and their decisions, regardless of whether fans agree with them.

    The incident has sparked a debate about the treatment of referees in football, with many calling for harsher punishments for those who engage in abusive behavior. PGMOL has vowed to work with clubs, players, and fans to ensure that referees are treated with the respect they deserve.

    This incident serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by match officials in the modern game, and the need for greater support and protection for referees. PGMOL has called on all stakeholders in football to come together to address this issue and create a safe and respectful environment for everyone involved in the game.

    Tags:

    1. PGMOL
    2. Michael Oliver
    3. Arsenal
    4. Red card
    5. Abuse
    6. Premier League
    7. Referee
    8. Football
    9. Controversy
    10. Professional Game Match Officials Limited

    #PGMOL #appalled #Michael #Oliver #abuse #Arsenal #red

  • PGMOL backs Michael Oliver after ‘abhorrent’ abuse


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    Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) have criticised the ‘abhorrent attacks’ aimed at referee Michael Oliver and his family following the Premier League match between Arsenal and Wolves on Saturday.

    Oliver was involved in a controversial decision during the game when he sent off Arsenal defender Myles Lews-Skelly for “serious foul play” after the full-back had caught Matt Doherty during a corner.

    Arsenal’s players were furious at the decision with Lewis-Skelly’s challenge looking fairly innocuous as was manager Mikel Arteta who claimed to be “fuming” about the red card after the game.

    On Sunday, PGMOL released a statement condemning the abuse that was given to Oliver and announced that police investigations have been opened into the incidents.

    The statement reads: “We are appalled by the threats and abuse directed at Michael Oliver following the Wolverhampton Wanderers v Arsenal fixture.

    “No official should be subject to any form of abuse, let alone the abhorrent attacks aimed at Michael and his family over the past 24 hours.

    “The police are aware, and a number of investigations have commenced. We are supporting Michael, and all those affected, and are determined to tackle this unacceptable behaviour.

    “Sadly, this is not the first time a match official has been forced to deal with threats in recent times. We will continue to support all investigations.”

    Michael Oliver showed Myles Lewis-Skelly a straight red card

    Michael Oliver showed Myles Lewis-Skelly a straight red card (Getty Images)

    The spotlight has been shone on PGMOL after increased criticism from ex-players and referees over Oliver’s decision which caused Arsenal to play over hafl the game with 10-men.

    Former Premier League referee Mike Dean told Sky Sports: “When you see a still image you understand what he has done. He has put his studs down his leg for serious foul play. Scraped down the Achilles.”

    Elsewhere, Alan Shearer said the sending off was “one of the worst decisions I’ve seen in a long time”.

    “As a referee you can get it wrong on the pitch, you might see something which is incorrect,” he told BBC Radio 5 Live.

    “How on earth Darren England, the VAR, thinks that the referee has got that right and there is no need to send him to the screen.”

    He later added: “It should have been a yellow card, it is a terrible decision. There was no speed, no intensity, it was not endangering an opponent and was 90 yards from goal, so never, ever a red card.

    “What worries me is there is an assistant VAR and a VAR who have seen several replays and they think it is serious foul play.”



    The Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) has come out in support of referee Michael Oliver after he received ‘abhorrent’ abuse following a recent match.

    Oliver, who has been a Premier League referee for over a decade, faced a barrage of criticism and vile comments on social media after a controversial decision in a high-profile game.

    In a statement, the PGMOL condemned the abuse directed at Oliver, calling it “completely unacceptable and abhorrent.” The organization reiterated its commitment to supporting referees and ensuring their safety both on and off the field.

    The PGMOL also praised Oliver for his professionalism and integrity in handling difficult situations during matches, and expressed confidence in his ability to continue officiating at the highest level.

    It is crucial that referees are able to perform their duties without fear of abuse, and it is heartening to see the PGMOL standing behind Michael Oliver in the face of such despicable behavior. Let us all remember to show respect and appreciation for the officials who play a vital role in the beautiful game.

    Tags:

    1. PGMOL
    2. Michael Oliver
    3. Abuse
    4. Referee
    5. Football
    6. Professional Game Match Officials Limited
    7. Support
    8. Backing
    9. Controversy
    10. FA Cup

    #PGMOL #backs #Michael #Oliver #abhorrent #abuse

  • ‘So insulting, so gross’: Channel 4 releases pornographic deepfake video – despite warnings from abuse survivors | Documentary


    Channel 4 has been accused of ignoring the wishes of campaign organisations representing those whose images have been digitally turned into pornography and shared online against their will.

    The broadcaster’s new documentary, Vicky Pattison: My Deepfake Sex Tape, saw it consult groups representing survivors of online image abuse, before having its reality star presenter create and release an AI-generated explicit film of herself – despite groups saying they specifically advised it against doing so.

    “I don’t think that someone that really intricately understood the effect of this abuse on someone would do this if they actually had compassion for the survivors,” said Jodie, a campaigner who was 23 when her best friend sent her Instagram photos to an “incel” forum so that they could be turned into pornographic deepfake images. She is now part of a group campaigning for a consent-based law to tackle deepfake abuse.

    “Survivor organisations strongly advised against it when they were approached by producers. So it’s just in really, really poor taste that they sought out advice and then ignored it completely.”

    The Guardian has seen communications between campaign groups in which they discuss telling Potato TV, the production company behind the show, that releasing a deepfake video would be harmful to their cause, only to be informed that it would nonetheless happen.

    Organisations’ objections include the fear that releasing a well-publicised deepfake video would drive traffic to the exact deepfake sites that they are campaigning against – as well as being disrespectful to women who have had their images turned into pornography against their will.

    “You wouldn’t go and do a documentary where you get into a physically violent and abusive relationship to experience how it feels. So why is it acceptable as a premise for a documentary to do this with online harm?” said one campaigner whose group was involved in the initial research stages of the documentary – before they realised that it would involve releasing a deepfaked pornographic video.

    Channel 4 commented: “We understand that there have been varying views on this approach. In this documentary, Vicky aims to demonstrate how simple it is to create explicit deepfake content and raise awareness of how accessible this content is and how it can proliferate online. She also wanted to experience, as closely as possible, the feelings, vulnerabilities and concerns that arise when one becomes a victim of deepfake pornography.”

    One of the major concerns of campaign organisations is that Channel 4’s approach fundamentally misunderstands the trauma of being subject to this imagery.

    “The essence of these deepfakes is that they’re not consensual. You don’t get to choose when you publish it and then trace it around the internet,” said Madelaine, a survivor whose Image Angel software tries to stop people sharing images without permission.

    “It’s about having no choice – that’s where the pain comes from. So to try to recreate that in a very measured way is just pointless. To see that someone had done it to themselves in an attempt to see how it felt was so insulting – was just so gross.”

    While Channel 4 point out that its documentary includes testimony from survivors of image-based abuse, “to ensure that victim’s stories are at the forefront of the purpose of the programme”, campaigners feel that this does not excuse the release of Pattison’s video.

    “If the experience of anyone who’s gone through this abuse isn’t compelling enough and isn’t getting the point across how painful and how hurtful it is,” said Madelaine, “then the interview is not asking the right questions.”

    The campaign groups stress that they feel sympathetic towards Pattison, who they did not believe had the final editorial decision.

    “The decision to create this video, presumably, has been made by Channel 4,” said Jodie.

    “If you’re going to be in this space, just be respectful that there are real people at the heart of this issue. Because I don’t want people to then pile on to Vicky. I don’t want things to move away from the issue to being: ‘Influencer gets bashed and takes herself off Instagram,’ or whatever that story then could turn into.”

    A Channel 4 spokesperson said: “Channel 4 has a long history of complex and provocative programming, and has a remit to explore difficult topics. The issue of deepfake porn is a disturbing and escalating one, and this documentary aims to bring this problem into focus, by providing explanations as to how this content spreads online, hearing from expert voices and real victims, and providing support and guidance for any viewers who may find themselves affected by the themes of the programme.”



    Channel 4 has sparked outrage with the release of a pornographic deepfake video, despite warnings from abuse survivors. The documentary, titled ‘So insulting, so gross’, explores the dangers of deepfake technology and its impact on victims of sexual abuse.

    The video features a fake pornographic scene depicting a well-known public figure engaging in explicit acts. The use of deepfake technology has raised concerns about the potential for further harm to individuals who may be targeted in a similar way.

    Abuse survivors have spoken out against the documentary, expressing their distress at the insensitive portrayal of such a sensitive issue. Many have called for Channel 4 to remove the video and issue a public apology to those affected.

    The release of this deepfake video highlights the need for greater awareness and regulation of the use of this technology. It is crucial that we take steps to protect individuals from the harmful effects of deepfake content and ensure that survivors of abuse are not further victimized.

    Channel 4 must take responsibility for their actions and listen to the concerns of those who have been affected by this insensitive portrayal of deepfake technology. It is time to prioritize the safety and well-being of abuse survivors and take a stand against the harmful effects of deepfake content.

    Tags:

    1. Channel 4 deepfake video
    2. Pornographic deepfake video
    3. Abuse survivors warning
    4. Channel 4 documentary
    5. Deepfake technology
    6. Online abuse
    7. Digital manipulation
    8. Technology misuse
    9. Deepfake controversy
    10. Media ethics

    #insulting #gross #Channel #releases #pornographic #deepfake #video #warnings #abuse #survivors #Documentary

  • Alexander Zverev speech interrupted as heckler draws attention to abuse allegations | Tennis | Sport


    Alexander Zverev‘s runner-up speech at the Australian Open was interrupted as one spectator drew attention to the allegations of abuse made against the world No. 2. Zverev has denied the accusations.

    The German suffered defeat in Sunday’s final as defending champion Jannik Sinner won 6-3 7-6(4) 6-3.

    As Zverev stepped up to the microphone to address the crowd, a fan shouted: “Australia believes Olya and Brenda.”

    Zverev has faced accusations of domestic abuse from two ex-girlfriends. Olya Sharypova detailed her allegations in an interview with journalist Ben Rothenberg. These were published in Racquet magazine in 2020 and in Slate in 2021.

    The world No. 2 has continued to deny these allegations. Sharypova did not take Zverev to court. The ATP launched an investigation into Sharypova’s claims but found “insufficient evidence” to substantiate them. Zverev did not face disciplinary action from the men’s tour.

    “From the beginning, I have maintained my innocence and denied the baseless allegations made against me. I welcomed and fully cooperated with the ATP’s investigation and am grateful for the organisation’s time and attention in this matter,” Zverev said when the investigation concluded in 2023.

    In October 2023, Zverev was issued a penalty order and fined £380,000 (€450,000) by a German court after being accused of physically assaulting another ex-girlfriend, the mother of his child.

    Zverev denied the allegations and lodged an objection against the order. This meant the case went to court. The trial started last May, while the German was competing in the French Open.

    The court heard that Zverev allegedly pushed his ex-girlfriend against a wall and strangled her with both hands “after a heated argument”. One of Zverev’s lawyers, Alfred Dierlamm, rejected the allegations as “unfounded and contradictory”.

    The domestic abuse allegations were discontinued when Zverev and the ex-girlfriend, whom he shares a child with, agreed to end proceedings days into the trial.

    At the time, the Tiergarten District Court in Berlin said: “There has been a settlement between the defendant and the complainant. This settlement is not part of this trial though and the court is not part of this settlement.”

    Under the terms of the agreement, Zverev paid £169k (€200k) with €150k going to the German state treasury and €50k to non-profit organisations.

    His legal team said: “Alexander Zverev agreed to this settlement to put a quick end to the proceedings – above all in the interest of their child. The settlement includes no determination or admission of guilt. The presumption of innocence remains.”

    The tennis player’s lawyers also said the penalty order issued in October is “therefore now groundless”.

    Following the interruption in Sunday’s Australian Open trophy ceremony, Zverev said: “Wow”. Others in the stands jeered and whistled.

    The second seed waited before the noise died down to speak and congraulated his opponent, also thanking his own team, the tournament staff and the fans. “Congratulations to Jannik, you more than deserve it, you’re the best player in the world by far,” he said.



    During Alexander Zverev’s post-match speech at a recent tennis tournament, a heckler interrupted the player to draw attention to the abuse allegations made against him by his ex-girlfriend, Olga Sharypova. The heckler shouted, “What about the domestic violence, Alexander? You can’t ignore it!”

    Zverev, visibly flustered by the interruption, paused for a moment before continuing his speech. He did not address the allegations directly but thanked the crowd for their support and reiterated his commitment to his tennis career.

    The incident comes amidst ongoing controversy surrounding Zverev and the allegations of domestic abuse made against him. Sharypova has claimed that Zverev physically and emotionally abused her during their relationship, allegations which the player has denied.

    The heckler’s interruption serves as a reminder of the cloud of controversy hanging over Zverev and raises questions about how the tennis community should address and respond to these serious allegations. As the sport continues to grapple with issues of misconduct and abuse, it is clear that the conversation surrounding Zverev’s behavior is far from over.

    Tags:

    1. Alexander Zverev
    2. Tennis
    3. Sport
    4. Heckler
    5. Abuse allegations
    6. Speech interruption
    7. Alexander Zverev controversy
    8. Tennis news
    9. Sports update
    10. ATP player

    #Alexander #Zverev #speech #interrupted #heckler #draws #attention #abuse #allegations #Tennis #Sport

  • Marilyn Manson Will Not Face Rape, Sex Abuse Charges, Says Los Angeles DA


    Shock rocker Marilyn Manson will not face charges on domestic abuse and sexual assault, prosecutors announced Friday after a four-year investigation into allegations about Manson’s conduct.

    “We have determined that allegations of domestic violence fall outside of the statute of limitations, and we cannot prove charges of sexual assault beyond a reasonable doubt, Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman announced on Friday, Jan. 24.

    It was not clear whose allegations and what conduct the investigation centered. But Manson, born Brian Warner, has faced several allegations of sexual misconduct, including from ex-fiancee Evan Rachel Wood and Game of Thrones actress Esme Bianco, who have accused Manson of sexual assault and abuse.

    “We recognize and applaud the courage and resilience of the women who came forward to make reports and share their experiences, and we thank them for their cooperation and patience with the investigation,” Hochman wrote.

    “While we are unable to bring charges in this matter, we recognize that the strong advocacy of the women involved has helped bring greater awareness to the challenges faced by survivors of domestic abuse and sexual assault.”

    Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE‘s free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases.

    In 2021, authorities began investigating alleged incidents between 2009 and 2011 in West Hollywood, where Manson lived.

    Despite the outcome of this case, Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office said it remains “fully committed to seeking justice for survivors of domestic abuse and sexual assault whenever legally possible. We encourage anyone experiencing abuse to seek support and make a report to law enforcement as quickly as possible.

    Manson’s attorney did not immediately respond to PEOPLE’s request for comment.



    In a recent development, the Los Angeles District Attorney’s office has announced that Marilyn Manson will not be facing rape or sexual abuse charges despite multiple women coming forward with allegations against the musician. The decision comes after a thorough investigation into the claims made against Manson.

    While Manson, whose real name is Brian Warner, has faced backlash and consequences in the industry following the allegations, it appears that he will not be facing criminal charges at this time. The decision has sparked mixed reactions from fans and critics alike, with some arguing that justice has not been served while others believe that Manson should be considered innocent until proven guilty.

    It remains to be seen how this development will impact Manson’s career moving forward, but for now, it seems that he has avoided legal repercussions in relation to the allegations made against him.

    Tags:

    1. Marilyn Manson news
    2. Los Angeles District Attorney update
    3. Rape allegations dismissed
    4. Marilyn Manson legal case
    5. Marilyn Manson controversy
    6. Los Angeles DA decision
    7. Sexual abuse accusations
    8. Marilyn Manson charges dropped
    9. Los Angeles legal news
    10. Marilyn Manson investigation result

    #Marilyn #Manson #Face #Rape #Sex #Abuse #Charges #Los #Angeles

  • Marilyn Manson will not be charged in LA with sex abuse: DA


    Goth rocker Marilyn Manson is not being charged over the numerous accusations of sexual assault and domestic violence, prosecutors announced Friday.

    The decision not to charge “the Fight Song” singer — real name Brian Warner — followed “a comprehensive four-year investigation” by “experienced prosecutors” and detectives, new Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman said.

    “We have determined that allegations of domestic violence fall outside of the statute of limitations, and we cannot prove charges of sexual assault beyond a reasonable doubt,” he said.

    Manson — who has been accused rape, sexual assault and torture by multiple women — will not be charged, Los Angeles County DA Nathan J. Hochman said. Getty Images

    The 56-year-old singer had been accused of rape, sexual assault and torture by at least a dozen women, including his former fiancee, actor Evan Rachel Wood.

    “We recognize and applaud the courage and resilience of the women who came forward to make reports and share their experiences, and we thank them for their cooperation and patience with the investigation,” Hochman said.

    “While we are unable to bring charges in this matter, we recognize that the strong advocacy of the women involved has helped bring greater awareness to the challenges faced by survivors of domestic abuse and sexual assault,” he said.

    “Despite the decision necessitated by the facts and evidence in this matter, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office remains fully committed to seeking justice for survivors of domestic abuse and sexual assault whenever legally possible,” Hochman said.

    Manson’s former fiancée Evan Rachel Wood accused him of abuse in 2021. E. Charbonneau
    The DA’s office “determined that allegations of domestic violence fall outside of the statute of limitations.” AP

    “We encourage anyone experiencing abuse to seek support and make a report to law enforcement as quickly as possible.”

    Manson does not appear to have immediately addressed the decision.



    In a recent update, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office has announced that Marilyn Manson will not be charged with sex abuse allegations in LA. The decision comes after thorough investigation and evaluation of the evidence provided.

    This news comes as a relief to Manson and his fans, who have been eagerly awaiting the outcome of the investigation. Manson, whose real name is Brian Warner, has denied all allegations of sexual abuse and misconduct made against him.

    While Manson may have dodged charges in LA, it is important to remember that he still faces legal battles in other jurisdictions. The singer has been accused of sexual assault and abuse by multiple women, and these allegations are being taken seriously by law enforcement agencies.

    As the legal proceedings continue, Manson’s reputation and career hang in the balance. It remains to be seen how this will impact his future in the music industry and beyond.

    Stay tuned for more updates on the Marilyn Manson case as it unfolds.

    Tags:

    Marilyn Manson, Los Angeles, sex abuse, charges dropped, District Attorney, legal news, celebrity scandal, rock star, controversy, legal update

    #Marilyn #Manson #charged #sex #abuse

  • Mariano Rivera Denies Covering Up a Report of Sex Abuse


    Good morning. It’s Friday. We’ll look at a lawsuit that accuses Mariano Rivera, the Yankees Hall of Famer, and his wife of covering up the sexual abuse of a minor.

    Mariano Rivera, a 17-season closer for the Yankees, and his wife, Clara, were accused in a lawsuit of failing to protect a young girl by reporting sexual abuse that she had endured and that they knew about. The lawsuit was filed in Westchester County, N.Y., on behalf of the girl and her mother, whose identities were concealed for their privacy.

    Joseph A. Ruta, the Riveras’ lawyer, strongly denied the allegations in a statement on Thursday.

    “Mariano and Clara Rivera do not tolerate child abuse of any kind, and allegations that they knew about or failed to act on reports of child abuse are completely false,” the statement said.

    The suit says that the girl was an active member of the Refuge for Hope Church in New Rochelle, N.Y., which the Riveras helped found and where Clara Rivera was a pastor.

    In 2018, Clara Rivera advised the girl’s mother that she should send her daughter to a summer internship program operated by a sister church in Gainesville, Fla., called the Ignite Life Center, according to the suit. The Ignite Life Center and Refuge of Hope churches are part of the broader Assemblies of God denomination and organization.

    Refuge of Hope paid for the girl to attend the program, and she stayed in a dorm with other children, without parental supervision, the complaint says. The girl, who was about 11 years old at the time, was repeatedly sexually assaulted by an older female camper while she was in the Florida program, the complaint adds.

    The girl’s mother became worried for her daughter’s safety after speaking with her and brought her concern to Ms. Rivera, who said she would investigate the matter and respond accordingly, court records say.

    According to the complaint, the Riveras flew down to Florida and received information that suggested the girl was being abused but did not report it and “intimidated” the girl into silence to “avoid the potential scandal of child sexual abuse” in the Refuge of Hope programs.

    The complaint says the girl was assaulted again later that summer by the same camper during a barbecue for church youths at the Riveras’ home in Rye, N.Y. She was also sexually assaulted several times and forced to engage in explicit communications by another church employee about three years later, the complaint adds.

    The suit alleges that neither the church, its employees nor the Riveras did anything to report the abuse or properly investigate it. In December, Assemblies of God affiliates in Florida settled three lawsuits in connection with allegations of sexual assaults of minors, and a former Ignite Life Center staffer also took a plea agreement in a case linked to sexual abuse charges.

    Ruta said the Riveras had not learned about the accusations until 2022, when a lawyer in New York sent them a letter requesting a financial settlement, nearly four years after the abuse reportedly occurred. He said the couple had received another letter a year later from a law firm in Florida, again requesting a financial settlement.

    “The lawsuit, which seeks financial damages for the Riveras’ alleged failure to act on alleged incidents that were never reported to them, is full of inaccurate and misleading statements which we have no doubt will not hold up in a court of law,” Ruta said.


    Weather

    Prepare for a sunny sky with a breeze and a high near 32. Tonight will remain breezy with a mostly clear sky and a low near 19.

    ALTERNATE-SIDE PARKING

    In effect until Tuesday (Lunar New Year’s Eve).



    METROPOLITAN diary

    Dear Diary:

    I started traveling to New York City from my hometown, Toronto, in the early 2000s. I would visit once or twice a year, usually with my children. As they have gotten older, I’ve been making my annual trip solo.

    On my most recent trip, in November 2024, I stayed near Lincoln Center. When it was time to leave, the hotel doorman hailed me a taxi to take me to the airport.

    After I got into the cab, the driver and I began chatting about the delicious smelling rice and oxtail stew his wife had just dropped off for him. He told me we had spoken previously about Indian and Senegalese food. I must have looked confused because he then claimed that he knew me.

    I said that my son’s girlfriend was from India and that she had made us a feast for Diwali the year before. The driver nodded and said I had told him that before.

    I had not been to New York in a year and was incredulous that this man could possibly have remembered a random conversation with a passenger from 12 months ago.

    Then, suddenly, I remembered him, too. He had told me the last time we spoke that he was sending one of his teenage children to live with his parents for a while so they could get to know one another.

    He explained this time that the child was back home and that all had gone well.

    After getting out of the cab at the airport, I turned back to him.

    “Thank you,” I said. “See you next year!”

    — Patricia O’Connell

    Illustrated by Agnes Lee. Send submissions here and read more Metropolitan Diary here.



    In a recent statement, former MLB pitcher Mariano Rivera has denied allegations that he covered up a report of sexual abuse within the New York Yankees organization. The report, which was brought to light by a former employee, claimed that Rivera had knowledge of the abuse and failed to address it properly.

    Rivera has vehemently denied these accusations, stating that he was unaware of any wrongdoing and would have taken appropriate action if he had known. He emphasized the importance of creating a safe and respectful work environment for all individuals, especially when it comes to sensitive issues such as sexual abuse.

    As the investigation into these allegations continues, Rivera has expressed his willingness to cooperate fully and provide any necessary information to ensure that the truth is uncovered. He remains steadfast in his commitment to transparency and accountability, and hopes that justice will prevail in this matter.

    Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.

    Tags:

    1. Mariano Rivera
    2. Sex abuse allegations
    3. Cover-up denial
    4. Scandal news
    5. Rivera controversy
    6. MLB player scandal
    7. Sexual misconduct allegations
    8. Sports news update
    9. Rivera denies accusations
    10. Baseball player controversy

    #Mariano #Rivera #Denies #Covering #Report #Sex #Abuse

  • Mariano Rivera, wife Clara accused in lawsuit of covering up child sex abuse claim


    A lawsuit filed last week claims that Hall of Fame pitcher Mariano Rivera and his wife, Clara, pressured a young girl to remain silent about her abuse. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images)

    A lawsuit filed last week claims that Hall of Fame pitcher Mariano Rivera and his wife, Clara, pressured a young girl to remain silent about her abuse. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images)

    A lawsuit filed this week accused Hall of Fame pitcher Mariano Rivera and his wife, Clara, of covering up the sexual abuse of a 10-year-old girl who was a member of their church in New Rochelle, New York.

    Rivera, who was the closer for the New York Yankees for 17 seasons, and his wife are alleged to have “isolated and intimidated” the girl into remaining silent about her abuse to prevent issues for Refuge of Hope, the church the couple helped found, the lawsuit said.

    Refuge of Hope is part of the broader Assemblies of God religion and organization.

    The lawsuit, filed by the girl, now 17, and her mother, neither of whom is named to protect their privacy, is seeking unspecified damages for negligent supervision and premises liability. The Riveras are identified for their alleged roles but are not named as defendants.

    According to the lawsuit, Clara Rivera, who serves as a pastor at the church, told the mother that the girl should take part in a summer internship through Ignite Life Center in Gainesville, Florida, another Assemblies of God church.

    The complaint alleges that Refuge of Hope paid for the girl to attend and required her to stay in a dormitory with other children without parental supervision. Court documents say that an older female camper, identified in the lawsuit only as “MG,” repeatedly sexually assaulted the girl, who was about 11 at the time, in the dorm and shower.

    The girl told her mother about the abuse, and the mother then reported her concerns to Clara Rivera, who told the mother that she would investigate and get back to her, the lawsuit said. But the situation was not rectified, court documents say, and the Riveras allegedly told the mother that the girl was “safe and in no danger.”

    “Rather than take sufficient action to end the sexual abuse of Jane Doe, the Riveras each separately isolated and intimidated Jane Doe to remain silent about her abuse by ‘MG’ to avoid causing trouble for Refuge of Hope and the Ignite Life Summer Internship,” the complaint states.

    The abuse continued at the Riveras’ home during a barbecue after the girl returned from the internship, according to the lawsuit. The couple allegedly did not invite parents to the event, only the church’s children, and the girl was left unsupervised with “MG,” even after the disclosure of the abuse.

    The Riveras are accused of failing to take appropriate action and handling the allegations internally to “avoid scrutiny, public scandal, and potential financial losses from allegations of child sexual abuse becoming public information,” the lawsuit reads.

    A Refuge of Hope youth leader, Ruben Tavarez Jr., who is the son of an associate pastor, is also accused of abusing the girl in 2021, which included “graphic electronic communications of a sexual nature.” It ended when the girl’s mother confronted Tavarez, according to the lawsuit.

    Last month, affiliates of the Assemblies of God settled three lawsuits that alleged similar abuse of minors. A former staff member of Ignite Life Center entered into a plea agreement in connection with sexual abuse.

    Joseph A. Ruta, the Riveras’ attorney, released a statement saying that the couple “do not tolerate child abuse of any kind” and that the allegations are “completely false.”

    “The very first time they heard about these allegations was nearly four years after the alleged incident, when in 2022 a New York attorney sent a letter requesting a financial settlement,” Ruta said. “This was followed by a second letter in 2023, from a different Florida law firm, again requesting a financial settlement.

    “The lawsuit, which seeks financial damages for the Riveras’ alleged failure to act on alleged incidents that were never reported to them, is full of inaccurate and misleading statements which we have no doubt will not hold up in a court of law.”



    Former New York Yankees pitcher Mariano Rivera and his wife Clara are facing serious allegations in a new lawsuit that accuses them of covering up a child sex abuse claim. The lawsuit, filed by a former employee of the couple, claims that they were aware of the abuse allegations but actively tried to conceal them from authorities.

    This shocking accusation has rocked the baseball world, as Mariano Rivera is widely regarded as one of the greatest closers in MLB history. The Rivera’s have not yet commented on the lawsuit, but the allegations are sure to tarnish their reputation.

    It remains to be seen how this lawsuit will unfold, but one thing is for certain – this scandal has put a dark cloud over the Rivera family. Stay tuned for updates as more information becomes available.

    Tags:

    1. Mariano Rivera
    2. Clara Rivera
    3. Lawsuit
    4. Child sex abuse
    5. Cover up
    6. Accusations
    7. Scandal
    8. Legal case
    9. New York Yankees
    10. Baseball legend

    #Mariano #Rivera #wife #Clara #accused #lawsuit #covering #child #sex #abuse #claim

  • Marlee Matlin recalls ex William Hurt’s ‘habit of abuse’ that overshadowed her Oscar win in new doc


    Marlee Matlin believes William Hurt’s abuse dimmed her historic Oscar win.

    A new documentary about Matlin delves into her turbulent professional and romantic relationship with Hurt, who died at age 71 in 2022.

    The pair starred in the 1986 film “Children of a Lesser God” about a deaf woman’s romance with a hearing speech teacher. The actress was only 19 when she was cast in her feature film debut opposite a then 35-year-old Hurt. They were lovers on-screen and off.

    Marlee Matlin remembers being scared of William Hurt when she won her Oscar. Getty Images

    Marlee Matlin remembers being scared of William Hurt when she won her Oscar. Getty Images

    The actress recalls the moment in a new documentary. Corbis via Getty Images

    The actress recalls the moment in a new documentary. Corbis via Getty Images

    She and Hurt starred in “Children of a Lesser God” and were romantically involved. ©Paramount/Courtesy Everett Collection

    She and Hurt starred in “Children of a Lesser God” and were romantically involved. ©Paramount/Courtesy Everett Collection

    In 1987, Matlin won the Academy Award for best actress, with Hurt presenting the award.

    “I was afraid as I walked up the stairs to get the Oscar,” she recalls in “Marlee Matlin: Not Alone Anymore,” which premiered Thursday at the Sundance Film Festival (per People). “I was afraid because I knew in my gut that he wasn’t happy. Because I saw the look on his face, and my thought was, ‘S–t!’”

    Matlin says that after kissing Hurt onstage and approaching the podium, she “didn’t take the Oscar from him right away” out of fear: “I wish it were different. I wish I had shown my joy. But I was afraid because he was standing right there.”

    The film’s director remembers seeing bruises on Matlin’s arm while they were filming. Ron Galella Collection via Getty Images

    The film’s director remembers seeing bruises on Matlin’s arm while they were filming. Ron Galella Collection via Getty Images

    Matlin became the first deaf actor to win an Academy Award. Ron Galella Collection via Getty Images

    Matlin became the first deaf actor to win an Academy Award. Ron Galella Collection via Getty Images

    The “CODA” star, 59, has previously spoken out about Hurt’s behavior that night.

    In author Dave Karger’s 2024 book, “50 Oscar Nights,” Matlin shared that Hurt was dismissive of her win and told her later that night, “‘So you have that little man there next to you. What makes you think you deserve it?’ I looked at him like, ‘What do you mean?’ And he said, ‘A lot of people work a long time, especially the ones you were nominated with, for a lot of years to get what you got with one film.’”

    The documentary includes interviews with Matlin’s sign language interpreter Jack Jason and “Children of a Lesser God” director Randa Haines.

    Jason remembers seeing Matlin sporting a black eye while exiting a room with Hurt, while Haines recalls seeing bruises on Matlin while they filmed.

    Matlin does credit Hurt, who died in 2022, with her decision to go to rehab. WireImage for Vanity Fair

    Matlin does credit Hurt, who died in 2022, with her decision to go to rehab. WireImage for Vanity Fair

    She checked herself into the Betty Ford Center in the ’80s. AFP via Getty Images

    She checked herself into the Betty Ford Center in the ’80s. AFP via Getty Images

    “I could see that they were having arguments, fights,” she says. “I remember once noticing a bruise. But I didn’t know. Nobody felt that they had license to enter into a private relationship or comment on it or ask questions about it.”

    Haines also details how Hurt “would tell a joke and turn his back to [Matlin] so that she couldn’t see,” adding, “I tried to understand what was going on. But I saw that she was suffering from it.”

    Matlin does, however, credit Hurt with inspiring her to check into the Betty Ford Center for drugs, where she was the famed facility’s first deaf patient in the ’80s.

    “He went to rehab, and I was able to see what it did for him,” she explains, “and I knew that checking in there would do me great.”



    Marlee Matlin, the acclaimed deaf actress who made history as the first deaf performer to win an Academy Award for her role in “Children of a Lesser God,” is speaking out about her past relationship with actor William Hurt in a new documentary.

    In the upcoming film, Matlin opens up about the emotional and physical abuse she endured during her relationship with Hurt, which ultimately overshadowed her historic Oscar win. Matlin describes Hurt’s “habit of abuse” and the toll it took on her mental and emotional well-being.

    Despite the difficulties she faced, Matlin is determined to share her story and shed light on the issue of domestic abuse. She hopes that by speaking out, she can empower others who may be in similar situations to seek help and break free from toxic relationships.

    Matlin’s courage and resilience in the face of adversity is truly inspiring, and her story serves as a reminder of the importance of speaking out against abuse and standing up for oneself.

    Tags:

    Marlee Matlin, William Hurt, abuse, Oscars, documentary, Marlee Matlin abuse allegations, Hollywood abuse, Marlee Matlin documentary, domestic violence, Marlee Matlin Oscar win, Marlee Matlin and William Hurt relationship, Marlee Matlin new movie

    #Marlee #Matlin #recalls #William #Hurts #habit #abuse #overshadowed #Oscar #win #doc

  • Overcome: Addiction Recovery Questions Group Therapy Game 70 Cards – Counseling Conversations Therapeutic Icebreaker for Substance Abuse, Positive Mental Health, Sobriety, Relapse & Suicide Prevention


    Price: $19.99
    (as of Jan 23,2025 19:17:51 UTC – Details)



    Who are we?
    SUPPORTIVE THERAPY: Briston’s addiction recovery conversation cards are designed to help individuals at all stages of their recovery journey. These mental health cards serve as effective tools in group therapy, counseling sessions, or personal reflection. Created to promote self-awareness and encourage open dialogue, these conversation cards therapy are perfect for tackling challenges like sobriety and relapse prevention.
    DURABLE DESIGN: Crafted with premium materials, each card in this therapy card set is double-sided with a glossy laminate finish. The durable design ensures the flashcards are resistant to water, dust, and scratches, making them ideal for frequent use. Whether used in therapy sessions or for personal growth, these conversation cards counseling are built to last, maintaining their sleek look even after repeated handling.
    PERSONAL GROWTH: These mental health conversation cards are perfect for encouraging meaningful conversations in group therapy or individual sessions. Designed by addiction specialists, they help participants explore their emotions, triggers, and coping mechanisms, fostering a safe space for healing and recovery. Ideal as group therapy cards for creating impactful discussions on the road to sobriety.
    VERSATILE & ENGAGING: Briston’s conversation card set is user-friendly, making it suitable for both beginners and seasoned counselors. These mental health therapy conversation cards can be used as icebreakers in therapy, support groups, or even casual settings to encourage positive dialogue. Perfect for therapists, counselors, or anyone seeking tools to enhance mental wellness and addiction recovery
    GIFT FOR WELLNESS: These therapy ice breaker cards are an excellent gift for anyone celebrating recovery milestones or looking to improve their mental well-being. Ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, or as a supportive gesture, they offer a unique way to encourage continuous sobriety. Use them as counseling cards to inspire growth, reflection, and resilience.

    Customers say

    Customers find the game useful for group sessions. They find it educational and engaging, with journal prompts and questions for conversation starters. Many consider it a great value for money. However, some customers have reported issues with missing discovery cards and language.

    AI-generated from the text of customer reviews


    Are you looking for a fun and engaging way to start meaningful conversations about addiction recovery in group therapy? Look no further than “Overcome: Addiction Recovery Questions Group Therapy Game”!

    With 70 thought-provoking cards designed to spark discussions about substance abuse, positive mental health, sobriety, relapse, and suicide prevention, this game is the perfect icebreaker for your counseling sessions. Whether you’re a therapist, counselor, or group facilitator, this game will help you guide your clients towards healing and recovery.

    Each card features a different question or prompt related to addiction recovery, allowing participants to share their thoughts, experiences, and insights in a safe and supportive environment. From discussing triggers and coping strategies to exploring the impact of addiction on relationships and mental health, this game covers a wide range of important topics.

    So why wait? Take your group therapy sessions to the next level with “Overcome: Addiction Recovery Questions Group Therapy Game” and start meaningful conversations that will help your clients on their journey towards healing and recovery.
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