Entertainment
Death Of Cartel Leader Sparks Violence Across Mexico
The Mexican army killed the country’s most powerful cartel leader and one of the United States’ most wanted fugitives. El Mencho, as he’s known, is dead. While it’s a victory for law enforcement, cartel members have responded with a wave of violence across Mexico. Here’s what’s going down in the aftermath of Mencho’s death, per the Associated Press.
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El Mencho Dies During Attempted Arrest, Cartels Unleash Violence
Oseguera Cervantes, aka El Mencho, was killed during an attempt to capture him. Meanwhile, his followers attempted to fight off Mexican troops. Mexico’s Defense Secretary, Ricardo Trevilla, said Monday that the army and National Guard launched an operation in the southern part of Jalisco state to capture El Mencho. Mexican air force and special forces were also involved. Intelligence gathered about one of Mencho’s romantic partners led them to his hideout, he said.
The cartel counterattacked. In the confrontation, federal forces killed eight members of the criminal group. El Mencho and two of his bodyguards were wounded and died later during transfer by air to Mexico City, Trevilla said. Officials seized rocket launchers capable of shooting down aircraft and destroying armored vehicles at the scene.
The killing of Jalisco New Generation Cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes during an attempt to capture him in Jalisco state was a high-profile blow against cartels. The highest since the recapture of former Sinaloa cartel boss Joaquín ‘El Chapo’ Guzmán a decade ago.
After El Mencho died, security forces were placed on alert throughout the country as gunmen unleashed violence. Cartels torched cars, blocking roads in 20 Mexican states. People locked themselves in their homes in Guadalajara, Mexico’s second-largest city and Jalisco’s capital. Also, school was canceled on Monday in several states.
Who Was El Mencho?
Oseguera Cervantes, better known as ‘El Mencho,’ was 59 years old and originally from the western state of Michoacan. His ties to organized crime went back at least 30 years. In 1994, he was tried for trafficking heroin in the U.S. He spent three years in prison. After returning to Mexico, he quickly rose through Mexico’s drug trafficking underworld.
Around 2009, El Mencho founded the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. It became Mexico’s fastest-growing criminal organization and moved cocaine, methamphetamines, fentanyl and migrants to the United States. The cartel recruited aggressively, experimenting with new ways to reach potential members online. It also made money through fuel theft, extortion and timeshare fraud.
Ultimately, the Jalisco New Generation Cartel earned a reputation for attacks on Mexican security forces, including downing a military helicopter in Jalisco in 2015. Mencho’s cartel also attempted a spectacular, but unsuccessful, assassination of Mexico City Police Chief Omar García Harfuch. Harfuch is now Mexico’s federal security secretary.
It’s not clear who will succeed El Mencho, or if any one person can. The Jalisco cartel has a presence in at least 21 of Mexico’s 32 states and is active in almost all of the United States, according to the U.S. DEA. But it is also a global organization.
Will The U.S. Respond?
The killing could give Mexico a leg up in its dealings with the Trump administration. The president has been threatening tariffs or military action if Mexico does not show results in the fight against the cartels.
El Mencho was facing multiple indictments in the United States and the U.S. State Department had offered a $15 million reward for information leading to his arrest. The Trump administration designated his cartel a terrorist organization a year ago.
Associated Press writer María Verza contributed to this report via AP Newsroom.
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President Donald Trump clarified that he did not suggest to wife Melania Trump to make a statement about Jeffrey Epstein — but approved of her making one.
“I said, ‘If you want to do that, you can do that.’ I said if she wants to do it — I didn’t recommend it, but … I let it be her, I said, if you want to do it,” Donald, 79, said in an interview with the New York Times on Friday, April 10.
The president also clarified that Melania “didn’t meet me through Jeffrey Epstein.”
“I could understand her feelings,” he said. “But I said, ‘If you want to do it, do it.’”
First lady Melania Trump surprised many when she released a statement denying any connection to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein — including her husband, President Donald Trump. Following Melania’s Thursday, April 9, statement to the press, MS NOW reported that they had a “brief phone call” with the president, 79, where he allegedly told the […]
Donald shared that he and his wife’s conversation about making the statement “wasn’t a big discussion.”
“I’d say it lasted for about two minutes,” he explained. “I had no problem. I thought she actually did a good job.”
Melania made headlines on Thursday, April 9, when she addressed speculation about her and her husband’s connection to Epstein. (The disgraced billionaire was convicted in 2008 for soliciting a minor for prostitution. Prior to his 2019 death by suicide, Epstein was awaiting trial on federal charges of sex trafficking and conspiracy to traffic minors.)
“[The rumors] with the disgraceful Jeffrey Epstein need to end today,” Melania said during a Thursday, April 9, press conference at the White House. “The individuals lying about me are devoid of ethical standards, humility and respect. I do not object to their ignorance but rather I reject their mean-spirited attempts to defame my reputation.”
Melania claimed that she had “never been friends” with Epstein.
“Numerous fake images and statements about Epstein and me have been circulating on social media for years now. Be cautious about what you believe. These images and stories are completely false,” she continued. “I am not a witness or a named witness in connection with any of Epstein’s crimes. My name has never appeared in court documents, depositions, victim statements or FBI interviews surrounding the Epstein matter.”
The first lady clarified that she and Donald Sr., who wed in 2005 and share son Baron 20, were previously “invited to many of the same parties as Epstein” but she “never had a relationship with Epstein or his accomplice [Ghislaine] Maxwell.” (Donald Sr. is also father to Don Jr., Ivanka, Eric and Tiffany Trump.)
First lady Melania Trump stunned observers on April 9, 2026, when she held an impromptu press conference at the White House to deny any connection to late convicted sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein — and to reject rumors that Epstein introduced her to her husband, President Donald Trump. What Melania Trump Said During Her Rare Public […]
Epstein and those who have been accused of being in his inner circle have been a hot topic in recent years due to the Department of Justice’s investigation into him. The government body has been releasing Epstein’s alleged correspondence — also known as the Epstein Files — as part of an FBI investigation into his actions.
Trump later told the Times on Friday that he doesn’t “mind anything having to do with Epstein.”
“The only thing I don’t like is, I waste a lot of time having to talk about it,” he told the outlet.
15 of Epstein’s victims spoke out against Melania’s remarks in a Thursday statement, “Survivors of Jeffrey Epstein have already shown extraordinary courage by coming forward, filing reports and giving testimony. Asking more of them now is a deflection of responsibility, not justice. It also diverts attention from [former attorney general] Pam Bondi, who must answer for withheld files and the exposure of survivors’ identities.”
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First lady Melania Trump stunned observers on April 9, 2026, when she held an impromptu press conference at the White House to deny any connection to late convicted sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein — and to reject rumors that Epstein introduced her to her husband, President Donald Trump.
What Melania Trump Said During Her Rare Public Address
“[The rumors] with the disgraceful Jeffrey Epstein need to end today,” Melania Trump said in a statement to the press on April 9, 2026. “The individuals lying about me are devoid of ethical standards, humility and respect. I do not object to their ignorance but rather I reject their mean-spirited attempts to defame my reputation.”
The first lady claimed she had “never been friends” with Epstein, who died by suicide in prison in August 2019 while awaiting trial on federal sex trafficking charges. (He was previously convicted of soliciting a minor for prostitution.)
She acknowledged that she and husband President Donald Trump “were invited to many of the same parties as Epstein from time to time” but insisted she “never had a relationship with Epstein or his accomplice [Ghislaine] Maxwell.”
Jeffrey Epstein Neil Rasmus/Patrick McMullan via Getty Images
Melania said she first “crossed paths” with Epstein in 2000 at an event she attended with her husband and that she “had no knowledge of his criminal undertakings” at the time. She also acknowledged replying to an email from Maxwell but dismissed it as nothing significant.
“My polite reply to her email doesn’t amount to anything more than a trivial note,” she stated. “I am not Epstein’s victim. Epstein did not introduce me to Donald Trump. I met my husband by chance at a New York City party in 1998. This initial encounter with my husband is documented in detail in my book, Melania.”
She added that “numerous fake images and statements” about her and Epstein have been circulating on social media and warned people to “be cautious about what you believe.”
“I am not a witness or a named witness in connection with any of Epstein’s crimes. My name has never appeared in court documents, depositions, victim statements or FBI interviews surrounding the Epstein matter,” she said.
President Trump Apparently Had No Idea Melania Was Going to Speak Out
Melania Trump’s speech appeared to catch the White House unaware. Following her remarks, MS NOW reported that the outlet had a “brief phone call” with President Donald Trump, who allegedly told them he had no prior knowledge of his wife’s plans to speak out on the topic. The publication alleged that “many” White House staffers were also “caught off guard” by Melania’s impromptu statement.
The president, however, backed his wife’s claims, telling MS NOW, “She didn’t know [him].”
Jeffrey Epstein’s Victims Push Back
Melania Trump’s speech drew a swift response from Jeffrey Epstein’s victims, who took particular issue with a portion where the first lady encouraged victims to give sworn testimony to Congress in a public hearing.
“Survivors of Jeffrey Epstein have already shown extraordinary courage by coming forward, filing reports and giving testimony. Asking more of them now is a deflection of responsibility, not justice,” a statement signed by 15 Epstein survivors read on April 9, 2026. “It also diverts attention from [former Attorney General] Pam Bondi, who must answer for withheld files and the exposure of survivors’ identities.” Their statement concluded, “[Bondi’s] failures continue to put lives at risk while shielding enablers. Survivors have done their part. Now it’s time for those in power to do theirs.”
The survivors also echoed criticisms that the Justice Department’s release of the Epstein files was handled haphazardly, with identifying information left unredacted in some cases and other important documents allegedly never being published at all.
President Donald Trump confirmed on April 2 that Bondi was leaving her role as attorney general to take “a much-needed and important new job in the private sector,” though multiple media outlets reported that she was fired due to the president’s displeasure with her recent job performance.
Jimmy Kimmel Weighs In
Late-night host Jimmy Kimmel also weighed in during the April 9, 2026, episode of Jimmy Kimmel Live!, questioning the timing of Melania Trump’s remarks.
“Why is this happening today?” Kimmel asked, making reference to President Donald Trump’s threats against Iran. “He spent the past six weeks trying to bomb this Epstein story out of the headlines. Two days after the ceasefire, she puts it right back on top.”
Kimmel wondered whether Melania did it on purpose, joking, “She must really hate him. I don’t know how else to explain it.”
President Donald Trump is taking aim at political podcasters like Megyn Kelly, Tucker Carlson and Candace Owens after they criticized him amid the conflict in Iran. “I know why Tucker Carlson, Megyn Kelly, Candace Owens, and Alex Jones have all been fighting me for years, especially by the fact that they think it is wonderful […]
He also referenced reports that White House officials were blindsided. “He didn’t know she was going to do it before she did it, which shows you just how smoothly things are running over there,” Kimmel added. “For whatever reason, she didn’t ask [her husband].”
He concluded: “She didn’t give him a heads-up. She just went right out in front of the cameras and fired away.”
Donald Trump Clarifies He Didn’t ‘Recommend’ Melania’s Statement
In an April 10 interview with the New York Times, Donald Trump explained he didn’t suggest for his wife to hold a press conference about Jeffrey Epstein, but was aware it was happening.
“I said, ‘If you want to do that, you can do that.’ I said if she wants to do it — I didn’t recommend it, but … I let it be her, I said, if you want to do it,” Donald, 79, said in an interview with the Times.
He added that he thought Melania “did a good job” while also confirming that his wife did not know Epstein.
If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673). If you or someone you know is a human trafficking victim, contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888.
This story was compiled with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists.
Entertainment
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Residents in Los Angeles’ Holmby Hills neighborhood are reportedly uneasy amid speculation that Sean “Diddy” Combs could return home if his appeal succeeds.
Concerns center on potential disruptions, including loud gatherings and increased media attention associated with his property, which some locals note has previously drawn police visits.
The concerns come as Sean “Diddy” Combs’ legal team continues its appeal against his 50-month sentence, now under review by judges.
Holmby Hills Neighbors Concerned As Diddy Appeal Raises Possibility Of Return Home
Residents in the upscale Holmby Hills neighborhood of Los Angeles are reportedly growing anxious as speculation builds that Sean “Diddy” Combs could be released if an appeals court rules in his favor.
According to TMZ, sources familiar with the area revealed that chatter among neighbors has intensified in recent days, with concerns that a possible return home could bring renewed disruptions similar to those that allegedly contributed to his earlier legal troubles.
The unease isn’t just about media attention or increased security presence, as locals are also worried about the lifestyle activity linked to the property.
Insiders claim that past gatherings involving Diddy’s family were extremely loud at times, leading to repeated police call-outs, which unsettled parts of the community.
Separately, reports suggest that real estate agents in the area are already informing potential buyers about Combs’ nearby property, treating it as relevant disclosure information due to concerns it could affect property value or lead to future disputes if not mentioned.
The Rapper Appeals 50-Month Sentence, Challenges Trial Evidence As Judges Deliberate Decision
On the legal front, Diddy’s attorneys questioned his conviction, arguing that his 50-month sentence is excessive compared to typical penalties for Mann Act-related convictions, which they say often average closer to 15 months.
They also note that he has already served a significant portion of his sentence while the appeal is under review.
During the appeal proceedings, Diddy’s defense team referenced allegations involving Cassandra “Cassie” Ventura, including claims of drug use that they say were excluded from the original federal trial.
They also brought up an incident described as a “hotel night,” a term linked to what they characterized as consensual encounters with an individual identified as “Jane,” which they argue did not involve coercion or threats. The defense has asked the court to issue a swift ruling, though no timeline has been provided for when a decision might be reached.
More About Diddy’s Conviction Under The Mann Act
Diddy was convicted last July on two counts of transporting individuals for prostitution under the Mann Act.
The charges centered on arranging travel for escorts to engage in sexual activity with his former partners, including Cassie and another woman who testified under the pseudonym “Jane.”
He was acquitted of the more serious allegations of racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking, which prosecutors had argued involved coercion and abuse tied to a wider pattern of misconduct.
According to the indictment, authorities claimed Diddy pressured both women into sexual encounters with male escorts, sometimes involving drugs and extended multi-day sessions.
These encounters were referred to during the trial as “Freak Offs” and “hotel nights,” with prosecutors alleging they were at times recorded. Diddly denied all allegations and pleaded not guilty throughout the proceedings.
The Rapper’s 50-Month Jail Release Date Has Slightly Changed
In sentencing submissions, prosecutors sought a prison term of more than 11 years alongside the maximum $500,000 fine, while the defense requested a much lighter sentence of around 14 months.
Ultimately, in October, Judge Arun Subramanian sentenced Diddy to 50 months in prison, which is about four years and two months, along with a fine and five years of supervised release.
Separately, the Bureau of Prisons has updated its projected release date. According to People Magazine, he is now scheduled for release on April 15, 2028, a slight change from earlier projections of April 25, 2028, and prior estimates of June 2028.
Where Is Diddy Serving Out His Prison Sentence?
Diddy is currently held at FCI Fort Dix, a federal correctional institution located on a military base near Philadelphia.
The rapper’s legal team had requested placement due to access to rehabilitation programs and proximity to family.
Since his arrest, several photos and videos of Diddy from inside Fort Dix have been shared online, revealing the music mogul interacting with other inmates and carrying out his prison duties, a huge contrast from his once glamorous lifestyle.
Entertainment
Forget ‘Marshals,’ Taylor Sheridan’s 102-Minute Western Is a Must-Watch Before It Leaves Netflix
There’s no shortage of Taylor Sheridan titles in the world now, and that’s part of what makes going back to Hell or High Water such a good reminder of where so much of this really started. Long before sprawling TV universes, ranch wars, and sheriffs trying to hold the line in a collapsing world, Sheridan delivered a lean, bruised, and deeply human crime story set against the dusty backdrop of West Texas. It doesn’t need big mythology or franchise sprawl to land. It just works. And for Netflix subscribers, the clock is now ticking.
Hell or High Water is leaving Netflix on May 1, which means there’s only a short window left to catch one of the best films Sheridan has ever written. Released in 2016 and directed by David Mackenzie, the neo-Western thriller earned four Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, Best Supporting Actor for Jeff Bridges, Best Original Screenplay, and Best Film Editing. Nearly a decade later, it still holds up as one of the sharpest and most emotionally grounded modern Westerns of its era.
Chris Pine stars as Toby Howard, with Ben Foster as his volatile brother Tanner, while Jeff Bridges plays Texas Ranger Marcus Hamilton and Gil Birmingham stars as his partner Alberto Parker. The film was Sheridan’s first foray into the world of neo-Westerns, and you can see the Yellowstone DNA running through it.
How Good Is ‘Hell or High Water’?
When it first hit theaters,Hell or High Water became both a critical darling and a modest box office success, grossing over $37 million worldwide. It earned four Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, Best Supporting Actor for Bridges, Best Original Screenplay for Sheridan, and Best Editing. On Rotten Tomatoes, it remains Certified Fresh with near-unanimous praise (97%) from critics and audiences alike.Collider’s review of the moviehailed the leads in Pine and Foster:
“This film lives and dies by the performances of the brothers. And they do not disappoint. Tanner could’ve been played as an over-the-top firecracker with an itchy trigger finger, but Foster smartly winds the violent coil down until its most absolutely necessary. Instead, Foster chooses to lay on a good-for-nothin’ charm that’s all mumbled confidence and acidic humor. And instead of simply having a short fuse, Foster adds the beats of frustration that both ignite that fuse, but also drive home the idea of brotherly love. As the other brother, Pine, who usually plays heroes, plays neither hero nor anti-hero. He is a man with a plan. He is measured.”
Hell or High Water leaves Netflix on May 1.
- Release Date
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August 11, 2016
- Runtime
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102 minutes
- Director
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David Mackenzie
- Producers
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Carla Hacken, Julie Yorn, Peter Berg, Sidney Kimmel
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