In an unusual step reflecting the city's escalating drug crisis, Portland's Safety Commissioner, Rene Gonzalez, directed residents on Monday to abstain from calling 911 unless faced with life-or-death emergencies or ongoing crimes.
If found guilty, he could face penalties of up to 25 years imprisonment, post-imprisonment supervised release for as long as 9 years, and hefty fines that could reach $750,000.
U.S. Democratic Senator Bob Menendez of New Jersey, along with his wife, has been indicted on charges associated with allegedly accepting bribes in the form of cash, luxury automobiles, and gold bars.
Louisiana officials announced that the state's wildfire was deliberately set, although authorities have not released details of the Tiger Island Fire's origin.