Daily Mail reported that a leaked phone call between Donald Trump and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has revealed details of an assassination attempt on Trump and his views on vaccines.
The call, which took place in private, was leaked online, showcasing Trump’s harrowing experience during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. Trump described the bullet that grazed his ear as feeling like "the world's largest mosquito."
Robert F. Kennedy III, RFK Jr.’s son, inadvertently made public this conversation by posting a video clip of the call online before deleting it. The leak has sparked controversy and allegations of collusion between Kennedy and Trump.
During the call, Trump spoke candidly about the assassination attempt, recounting how he narrowly avoided serious injury. He detailed his conversation with Joe Biden afterward, in which Biden inquired about Trump's last-second movement that saved his life. Trump’s depiction of the incident was vivid, likening the bullet’s impact to an enormous insect bite.
Trump also used the opportunity to discuss his skepticism about current vaccination practices, particularly concerning the dosage given to infants. He expressed concerns about the amount administered, suggesting it seemed more appropriate for a much larger animal rather than a baby. Trump has long been vocal about his views on vaccinations, advocating for smaller doses.
Trump attempts to recruit RFK Jr., known for his vaccine skepticism, to join his team and work on immunization policy if he wins a second term. RFK Jr. appeared receptive, though the subsequent leak of their conversation has cast a shadow over their potential collaboration.
RFK Jr.'s son, Robert F. Kennedy III, corroborated the call, emphasizing the importance of public transparency in such discussions. However, his decision to post the video was met with significant backlash, leading to its swift removal. RFK Jr. apologized for the incident, blaming an in-house videographer for the accidental post.
The leak has incited outrage among Democrats, who accuse RFK Jr. of colluding with Trump. Lis Smith, a DNC communications adviser, labeled Kennedy a "spoiler candidate" for Trump, alleging his campaign is funded by Trump's biggest supporters. Smith's accusations highlight the deepening divide and mistrust between the political factions.
Despite the controversy, Trump remains optimistic about his chances of re-election. He mentioned that his lead over Biden is significant, further fueling speculation about his future political plans. Trump's detailed recounting of the attempt on his life and his policy discussions with Biden add another layer to the ongoing political drama.
The assassination attempt, which occurred on a Saturday, has become a focal point of the leaked call. Trump’s candid description of the event and his subsequent conversation with Biden provide a rare glimpse into the behind-the-scenes interactions of political rivals. The exchange between Trump and Biden was surprisingly cordial, with Biden showing genuine concern for Trump's well-being.
RFK Jr.'s involvement in the call and the subsequent leak have put him in a precarious position. His apology for the video’s release and his admission of fault reflects the seriousness of the situation. He stressed that the recording was unintentional and should have stopped the videographer immediately.
The fallout from the leak continues to reverberate, with both Trump and RFK Jr. facing scrutiny. The revelation of their private conversation has opened a new chapter in the ongoing political saga, with potential implications for both their futures.
In conclusion, the leaked call between Donald Trump and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has revealed new details about an assassination attempt on Trump and his controversial views on vaccines. The incident has sparked outrage among Democrats, who accuse RFK Jr. of colluding with Trump. Trump remains optimistic about his political prospects, while RFK Jr. faces the fallout from the leaked video. The call has added another layer of intrigue to the already complex political landscape.
As reported by Daily Mail, a new video has emerged showing the immediate aftermath of an attempted assassination on former President Donald Trump during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.
The attack, which occurred eight minutes into Trump's speech, resulted in significant chaos and the death of one attendee.
The video reveals the chaotic scene as Secret Service agents swiftly surrounded and shielded Trump after the gunfire. Among the confusion, Trump can be seen asking the agents for his shoes, which had been removed during the scuffle.
Photos taken after the incident show a ladder hidden behind trees leading to the roof of the nearby AGR building. This ladder is believed to have been used by Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old who positioned himself on the rooftop to carry out the attack.
Witnesses reported seeing Crooks acting suspiciously before the attack, including using a rangefinder and climbing with a backpack. Despite these warnings, Crooks managed to open fire 26 minutes after being spotted, resulting in one fatality and injuries to three others.
Law enforcement and the Secret Service are facing scrutiny for perceived lapses in security, with local police and Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle under intense pressure. Cheatle has stated she will not resign despite the criticism.
Secret Service snipers ultimately neutralized Crooks, who was killed after causing the fatal injury to one rally attendee. The swift action of the snipers prevented further casualties and secured the area.
During the attack, Trump was tackled to the ground by agents, resulting in his shoes being removed. Video footage shows agents tossing Trump's shoes off the stage, leading to his repeated requests for them afterward.
Trump later commented on the incident, explaining that the agents hit him so hard that his shoes fell off despite being tight. He praised the agents for their quick response, calling their actions "fantastic" and describing the experience as surreal.
An emergency room doctor on site performed CPR on the fatally wounded victim, who had sustained severe head injuries. Despite the efforts, the victim succumbed to their injuries.
Trump, who suffered minor injuries, including a bruise on his arm and a cut on his cheek, expressed his desire to return to the podium and continue speaking despite the shooting. He made his first public appearance following the attack at the Republican National Convention's opening night in Milwaukee.
The release of the new video has reignited discussions about the effectiveness of security measures at public events and the responsibilities of law enforcement agencies in protecting high-profile individuals. The video provides a stark reminder of the ever-present risks faced by public figures and the crucial role of the Secret Service in mitigating these threats.
In summary, the attempted assassination of former President Trump at a Pennsylvania rally has led to intense scrutiny of security measures, the quick response of the Secret Service, and the subsequent neutralization of the shooter. Trump's minor injuries and his requests for his shoes amidst the chaos have become a focal point of the incident, highlighting the unpredictable nature of such attacks.
Former President Donald Trump has called for Secret Service protection for independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr., highlighting the Kennedy family's historical significance.
Axios reported that Trump stressed the importance of protecting Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has increasingly sought government security support. This comes after a shooting at one of Trump's rallies over the weekend.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump pointed to the Kennedy family's tragic history as a compelling reason for offering protection. He stated, "Given the history of the Kennedy Family, this is the obvious right thing to do!"
Gavin de Becker, Kennedy's security consultant, revealed to POLITICO that a formal request for protection is currently pending with the Department of Homeland Security. This request has gained traction among lawmakers following the violent incident at Trump's rally.
The rally, held in western Pennsylvania, was marred by a shooting that left Trump with a grazed ear. The shooter and another person died at the scene, while at least two others were critically injured.
The Secret Service has expressed its readiness to cooperate with congressional investigations and oversight regarding the incident. The agency's statement comes amid growing concerns about security for high-profile political figures.
In response to the rally shooting, a bipartisan effort is underway in the House to introduce legislation aimed at enhancing protection for President Joe Biden, Trump, and Kennedy. This proposed bill seeks to address the increasing threats faced by these prominent figures.
Kennedy has renewed his calls for protection, coinciding with the anniversary of his father's assassination in early June. His father, Robert F. Kennedy Sr., was fatally shot on June 5, 1968, and succumbed to his injuries the following day.
The Kennedy family's history of tragic losses extends further back, with former President John F. Kennedy, Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s uncle, being assassinated on November 22, 1963, in Dallas, Texas. This history adds weight to the calls for increased security measures for Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
The deadly incident at Trump's rally has intensified the discussion around security for political candidates. The rally's aftermath, with its fatalities and injuries, underscores the urgent need for protective measures.
Lawmakers from both parties are coming together to push for enhanced security for key political figures. This effort reflects the heightened concerns about the safety of individuals running for the highest office in the country.
In summary, former President Trump has urged the Secret Service to protect Robert F. Kennedy Jr., citing the Kennedy family's historical significance. This follows a deadly shooting at a Trump rally, where the former president narrowly escaped serious injury.
The rally's violent outcome has prompted bipartisan efforts in the House to enhance security measures for key political figures, including President Biden, Trump, and Kennedy. Kennedy's campaign has a formal request for protection pending with the Department of Homeland Security, highlighting the urgent need for protective measures in light of recent events.
In a thought-provoking commentary, Politico columnist Jonathan Martin delves into the shifting dynamics within the American political landscape, particularly in relation to former President Donald Trump.
Martin explores how recent events, including an attempted assassination of Trump and President Biden's lackluster debate performance, have reshaped party loyalties and strategies.
He highlights the surprising solidarity among Trump's previous Republican critics and the internal fractures within the anti-Trump coalition, capturing a pivotal moment of political recalibration as Democrats scramble to address these internal rifts and the stakes of the upcoming election.
For nearly a decade, Donald Trump has been a divisive figure, uniting Democrats and creating fractures among Republicans. As Republicans convened to nominate Trump for a third consecutive election, GOP critics had largely disappeared, leaving a realigned party firmly under Trump's influence.
The assassination attempt on June 27 marked a turning point for the GOP. Surviving the attack in Butler, Pennsylvania, Trump used the incident to rally his supporters and strengthen his grip on the party. The GOP, now fully aligned with Trump's strongman politics, saw its last significant challenger, Nikki Haley, change her plans and speak at the Republican convention.
Since 2017, Democrats have relied heavily on anti-Trump sentiments to form a broad coalition and achieve electoral success. This coalition helped President Joe Biden secure victory, facing little internal opposition until a poorly received debate on June 27 started to change the dynamics.
With the Democratic Party's anti-Trump coalition now splintered, internal calls for Biden to drop out of the race have emerged. Nancy Pelosi, seeing the potential for Biden's loss, has been strategizing behind the scenes to remove him from the ticket. Pelosi has been working closely with Hakeem Jeffries and other Democratic leaders, plotting Biden's potential exit.
The tension within the Democratic Party became evident when Biden sat through a contentious call with moderate House Democrats just before the assassination attempt. The internal rebellion posed a significant challenge to his leadership, raising questions about his ability to unite his party and reassure voters.
The Democrats' campaign against their own nominee has paused due to the national shock from the assassination attempt on Trump. However, the underlying tensions remain unresolved. President Biden, in an attempt to address the nation, called for calm and emphasized that politics should not become a literal battlefield.
Trump's near-death experience not only bolstered his position within the GOP but also highlighted the divisions within the Democratic Party. As Biden flew back to the White House, he faced the daunting task of quelling the internal rebellion and restoring confidence in his leadership.
Behind the scenes, Nancy Pelosi has been orchestrating a potential change in the Democratic ticket. Convincing key figures and plotting strategy with prominent Democratic leaders, Pelosi believes Biden's legacy is at risk of destroying the party. Her efforts have included stage-managed phone calls to Hakeem Jeffries and blunt conversations with former officials.
Pelosi's actions reflect the growing sentiment within the party that Biden may not be the best candidate for 2024. The internal dissent has been fueled by concerns over Biden's leadership and the impact of his presidency on the party's future. As the political landscape continues to shift, the Democratic Party faces a critical juncture in determining its path forward.
In conclusion, the assassination attempt on Donald Trump has had a profound impact on the political landscape. It has solidified Trump's control over the GOP and exposed significant divisions within the Democratic Party. As both parties navigate these challenges, the future of American politics remains uncertain.
According to The Columbus Dispatch, a police officer fatally shot Samuel Sharpe Jr., a homeless man wielding two knives, in Milwaukee after he charged at another individual during an altercation.
The incident took place near North 14th and West Vliet Streets, less than a mile from the Republican National Convention's security perimeter.
Bodycam footage released Tuesday night captures the moment when Columbus police officers confronted Samuel Sharpe Jr., a homeless man armed with two knives, in Milwaukee. The video reveals Sharpe charging at another individual, prompting officers to shoot and kill him.
Milwaukee Police Chief Jeffrey Norman confirmed that thirteen Columbus police officers were in the area for a briefing when they witnessed the altercation. According to Norman, preliminary information indicates that Sharpe held a knife in each hand during the confrontation.
Columbus Mayor Andrew J. Ginther emphasized that although the officers were guests in Milwaukee, they had a duty to protect and serve wherever they were called to action. "Columbus officers were guests in Milwaukee, but they take an oath to protect and serve wherever and whenever they are called to service," he stated.
The Columbus officers involved in the shooting are being sent back to Ohio. The Milwaukee Area Investigative Team will handle the investigation, with Columbus pledging full cooperation. Mayor Ginther reiterated the city's commitment to transparency and accountability, deferring to the local investigative team for updates.
Witnesses at the scene reported that Sharpe, known as "Jehovah," was a familiar figure in the local tent encampment. The Milwaukee County Medical Examiner has confirmed the death of an adult male.
Brian Steel, president of the Fraternal Order of Police Capital City Lodge No. 9, provided additional details, stating that Sharpe was waving steak knives at people, leading to the fatal shooting. Steel also noted that no Columbus officers were injured in the incident.
The shooting marks the eighth instance of Columbus police officers discharging their weapons this year, with previous incidents occurring in June and May.
Milwaukee police had requested additional security assistance from various departments across the country for the Republican National Convention. Columbus officers were among those providing support and may also assist with security at the upcoming Democratic National Convention in Chicago.
Shelly Sarasin, co-founder and director of Street Angels, a local outreach organization, expressed grief over Sharpe's death. "He was a person. He was human," she said, highlighting the trauma experienced by those who knew him. "This is more trauma on top of trauma for those who knew him and still live here," she added.
The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation has not been requested to assist with the case, as they lack jurisdiction outside of Ohio. The investigation remains under the purview of the Milwaukee Area Investigative Team.
A Columbus police officer fatally shot Samuel Sharpe Jr., a homeless man wielding two knives, in Milwaukee after he charged at another individual near the Republican National Convention's security perimeter. The bodycam footage, released for transparency, shows the confrontation leading to Sharpe's death. Thirteen Columbus officers were in the area for a briefing when they witnessed the altercation and responded. An investigation is underway, with Columbus cooperating fully and emphasizing transparency and accountability.
Joe "Jellybean" Bryant, a former NBA player and father of the late Kobe Bryant, died at 69.
According to The Spun, his passing follows a massive stroke that occurred four-and-a-half years after the tragic helicopter crash that killed his son Kobe and granddaughter Gianna.
Bryant, a Philadelphia basketball legend, had a storied career in both playing and coaching. He was well-known for his contributions to the sport, beginning as a star at John Bartram High School and La Salle University. Bryant’s death marks a significant loss in the basketball community, remembered for his legacy on and off the court.
Joe Bryant was drafted in the first round of the 1975 NBA Draft by the Golden State Warriors. He spent eight seasons in the NBA, playing for the Philadelphia 76ers, San Diego Clippers, and Houston Rockets. Over his career, he averaged 8.7 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 1.7 assists in 606 regular season games.
He was a part of the 76ers' 1976-77 Eastern Conference championship squad, a highlight of his professional career. In 1983, Bryant took his talents overseas, playing eight years in Italy and part of a season in France. This international stint added to his reputation as a versatile and talented player.
Joe Bryant's influence on basketball continued after his playing days. He transitioned into coaching, bringing his expertise and experience to various leagues and teams around the world.
Bryant began his coaching career as an assistant at La Salle University from 1993 to 1996. His coaching journey was extensive, including roles in the American Basketball Association (ABA), Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA), SlamBall, and international teams in Italy, Japan, and Thailand.
His most notable coaching success came with the WNBA's Los Angeles Sparks, where he achieved a 40-24 record as head coach between 2005-06 and 2011. Under his leadership, the Sparks finished with a 25-9 record and reached the Western Conference Finals in 2006.
Despite his coaching achievements, Bryant remained private, especially regarding his family. He never publicly commented on the untimely death of his son Kobe and granddaughter Gianna, reflecting a personal and reserved nature.
Joe Bryant's life was marked by both professional success and personal tragedy. His death comes four-and-a-half years after the devastating helicopter crash that claimed the lives of his son Kobe and granddaughter Gianna. This period has been incredibly challenging for the Bryant family.
According to La Salle head coach Fran Dunphy, Joe Bryant recently suffered a massive stroke, which ultimately led to his passing. The basketball community mourns his loss, reflecting on his impact as a player and coach.
Fran Dunphy shared his condolences and noted Bryant's significant influence on Philadelphia basketball and beyond. "If there is indeed an afterlife, let's hope father and son are up there making up for lost time," Dunphy remarked, highlighting the hope for reconciliation beyond this life.
Joe Bryant will be remembered for his significant contributions to basketball and the legacy he leaves behind. His journey from high school star to international player and respected coach highlights his broad impact on the sport. Despite his professional achievements, recent personal losses cast a shadow over his final chapter, reminding us of the complexities faced by public figures.
Donald Trump Jr. has expressed a desire for veto power over presidential transition hiring if his father, Donald Trump, secures a second term in November.
He emphasized his role would be to prevent "bad actors" from obtaining positions of power.
Speaking to Axios' Mike Allen on Tuesday, Donald Trump Jr. articulated his wish for significant influence over hiring decisions during his father's potential second term. Trump Jr. stated he wants the ability to block individuals he perceives as detrimental from assuming roles within the administration.
Donald Trump Jr. was clear in his interview: he does not seek a formal role within the administration. His primary concern is to use his influence to prevent "liars" and those "pretending they're with you" from gaining power. By having veto power, he aims to ensure only suitable candidates are selected for key positions.
"I don't want to pick a single person for a position of power, all I want to do is block the guys that would be a disaster," Trump Jr. said. This sentiment highlights his intention to act as a safeguard against unsuitable appointments.
Trump Jr. emphasized the importance of this oversight, particularly given the knowledge gained during his father's first term. "Now we know" who the potential candidates are, he noted, suggesting that prior experience provides an advantage in identifying the right people for the administration.
Despite his lack of interest in an official position, Trump Jr. has already wielded considerable influence within the Republican Party. He has actively supported candidates he deems appropriate and has played a significant role in their campaigns.
One notable example is his endorsement of Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance (R) as a potential running mate for his father. Trump Jr.'s support for Vance demonstrates his continued involvement and sway in shaping the political landscape.
This desire for veto power underscores his commitment to ensuring the administration is composed of individuals aligned with his father's vision and values. By blocking "bad actors," Trump Jr. aims to protect the integrity and effectiveness of the next Trump administration.
Trump Jr.'s interview with Axios revealed his strategic approach to transition hiring. He believes that having the power to veto candidates would allow him to filter out those who may not have the best interests of the administration at heart.
"You guys pick the guy that's right, I want a veto power to cut out each and every one of those people," he stated. This approach reflects his desire to play a critical role in shaping the future administration without being directly involved in the selection process.
His comments suggest a proactive stance in preventing potential pitfalls and ensuring a smooth and effective transition should his father win a second term. This level of involvement highlights the significant influence he seeks to maintain in the political sphere.
Donald Trump Jr. has articulated a desire for veto power over presidential transition hiring decisions, emphasizing his role in preventing "bad actors" from gaining power. He does not seek a formal administration position but aims to block unsuitable candidates. His influence within the Republican Party is evident in his support for Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance (R) as a potential running mate.
Dr. Thomas Vosburgh has opened a contentious debate regarding the health of President Joe Biden.
According to Newsweek, Vosburgh, a neurologist and psychiatrist, suggested the president might exhibit early signs of Parkinson's disease yet maintains he can still serve effectively.
This revelation stems from a July 10 letter to The New York Times in which Vosburgh countered calls for Biden to quit the presidential race without seeing indications of cognitive decline.
Vosburgh made his remarks following a turbulent period for the president. Following a CNN debate on June 27, Biden, who is 81, faced pressure to end his reelection bid. Multiple Democratic lawmakers echoed concerns about his age, urging him to withdraw.
Despite these pressures, President Biden has insisted on continuing his campaign. Vosburgh emphasized that Biden's supposed symptoms do not imply a necessity to leave the race or have any significant impact on his mental faculties.
"There seems to be some evidence that the president may be experiencing the onset of Parkinson's syndrome," wrote Vosburgh. He pointed out that symptoms of Parkinson's do not necessarily indicate any cognitive issues.
White House physician Dr. Kevin O'Connor joined the discourse, refuting any claims about Biden having signs of Parkinson's. In his letter dated July 8, Dr. O'Connor detailed that Biden’s latest physical examination in February showed no signs of any neurological disorder.
O'Connor clarified, "no indication of cerebellar or other central neurological disorders," emphasizing the thoroughness of Biden's health check-ups. Dr. Kevin Cannard, who has examined Biden annually, confirmed similar findings. Furthermore, Vosburgh argued that Biden appears sharp, with reports from his colleagues stating his mental clarity remains intact.
The Mayo Clinic provides an understanding of Parkinson's disease, describing it as a progressive disorder affecting the nervous system. Symptoms such as tremors and stiffness are often visible, yet Vosburgh reiterated these are not necessarily indicative of cognitive decline.
Vosburgh emphasized that the president's public appearances should not be misinterpreted as diminished mental capacity. "The way Mr. Biden appears in interviews, debates, and speeches need not be an indication of his cognitive ability at all," he stated.
Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre also addressed the media, insisting no evidence supports claims of Biden having any neurological disorders. She added, "The president has seen a neurologist three times," reiterating the absence of findings consistent with these diseases.
Newsweek reached out to the White House for comments following these statements, seeking further clarifications on Biden's health. In a heated press conference with CBS News correspondent Ed O'Keefe, questions about Dr. Cannard's involvement in Biden's health assessments were addressed.
Dr. Thomas Vosburgh suggested President Joe Biden may demonstrate early signs of Parkinson's disease without cognitive decline, countering calls for Biden to exit the presidential race. Despite concerns from Democratic lawmakers, White House physician Dr. Kevin O'Connor refuted claims of any neurological disorder in Biden. Vosburgh emphasized that physical symptoms do not reflect mental acuity, defending Biden's competence while facing skepticism about his health.
Rep. Bennie Thompson recently introduced a controversial piece of legislation targeting former President Donald Trump.
Breitbart News reported that Rep. Bennie Thompson proposed a bill revoking Secret Service protection from former President Donald Trump if convicted of a felony.
Rep. Bennie Thompson, previously the leader of then-Speaker Pelosi's January 6 Select Committee, proposed legislation in April 2024 to remove Secret Service protection from former President Donald Trump upon conviction.
The proposed legislation, officially named the Denying Infinite Security and Government Resources Allocated toward Convicted and Extremely Dishonorable (DISGRACED) Former Protectees Act, seeks to terminate Secret Service protection for anyone convicted of a Federal or State offense punishable by at least one year in prison.
Thompson argues this measure is necessary to address potential conflicts within the prison system. "Unfortunately, current law doesn’t anticipate how Secret Service protection would impact the felony prison sentence of a protectee—even a former President," Thompson stated. He expressed the need to update the law to ensure those sentenced to prison would serve their time without any special treatment.
Thompson's legislation also follows Trump's conviction in a Manhattan courtroom. Although the conviction came weeks after the bill's introduction, sentencing has yet to be finalized and may be further complicated by potential Supreme Court decisions.
The bill has sparked significant debate, with some pointing out the possible ulterior motives behind the legislation. Byron York highlighted the "obvious subtext" that removing Secret Service protection could make Trump more vulnerable to harm. Critics argue that this vulnerability might have an intended impact on the bill.
Thompson, however, firmly maintains that his focus is on the logistical challenges and fairness in providing Secret Service protection to convicted individuals. He remarked, "It is regrettable that it has come to this, but this previously unthought-of scenario could become our reality."
The fact sheet supporting Thompson's bill emphasized the necessity for such legislation due to Trump's mounting 91 felony charges. It underlined that these charges created an urgent need for the proposed changes.
Former President Trump has been outspoken against the January 6 Committee led by Speaker Pelosi. He has accused Thompson, the top Democrat on the committee, of conducting a politically motivated effort against him. Trump's assertions were backed by transcripts revealing that the committee withheld and destroyed evidence that could have potentially vindicated him.
The introduction of the DISGRACED Former Protectees Act has intensified the political tensions surrounding Trump’s ongoing legal battles. Critics from both sides of the aisle are weighing in on the potential implications and fairness of the proposed legislation.
Rep. Bennie Thompson introduced the DISGRACED Act in April 2024 to strip Secret Service protection from former President Donald Trump upon a felony conviction. The bill follows an assassination attempt on Trump at a Pennsylvania rally and seeks to address the logistics and fairness of maintaining protection for convicted individuals.
While critics argue the bill may leave Trump susceptible to harm, Thompson emphasizes resolving legal conflicts and ensuring no special treatment for protectees. Trump's conviction in Manhattan court, pending Supreme Court decisions, and claims against the January 6 Committee further fuel the ongoing debate over the bill's motives and implications.
An Austin father’s routine check-in on a daycare livestream turned into a horrifying experience.
A Texas father witnessed a daycare worker at The Children's Courtyard smothering and slapping his two-year-old son via a livestream, leading to a $1 million lawsuit against the facility.
According to Daily Mail, the distressing incident occurred on July 27, 2023, when the father logged into The Children's Courtyard’s livestream to check on his son’s well-being. He was shocked to see a daycare employee smothering his child during nap time. Worse still, the employee followed this by repetitively hitting the boy in the face and head when he did not sleep as expected.
The father immediately rushed to the daycare in Austin to confront the staff about the distressing scene he had just seen. However, upon his arrival, the facility did not report the abuse to state officials or law enforcement, raising further concerns about their handling of the situation.
The daycare informed the parents that the employee responsible would be suspended for just one day. This lackluster response prompted the boy's mother, Alexis Dominguez, to file a $1 million lawsuit against The Children's Courtyard for her son's injuries.
In the video, their son can be seen trying to shield himself from the abuse with his hands and rocking back and forth with each blow he received. Dominguez and her partner promptly removed their son from the daycare and alerted state authorities about the incident.
The Texas Health and Human Services Commission Child-Care Licensing Division and the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services launched investigations into the allegations against the daycare. The Children's Courtyard facility was cited for five violations, including child abuse and not reporting the abuse as required by law.
It’s important to note that The Children's Courtyard has a troubling history of safety violations. Since 2019, the daycare chain has been cited 70 times for various infractions. The history of negligence dates back to 2017 when an employee at another location in Plano, Texas, was caught on video violently handling an 18-month-old child.
Despite these alarming violations, The Children's Courtyard's current spokesperson emphasized that “health and safety” remained their “highest priority,” and they had terminated the involved employees from the recent incident.
Lawyer Russell Button, representing Dominguez, pointed out that the distressing event is not an isolated incident and criticized the daycare for consistently failing in its duty of care. Button remarked, “The serious safety issues at The Children's Courtyard are full of alarm bells and red flags.” He argued that the daycare’s history and the treatment of the Dominguez child demonstrated a clear lack of prioritizing child safety.
Regarding the incident, Alexis Dominguez expressed her outrage, stating, “Clearly, The Children's Courtyard did not value my son's safety or express concern for his well-being.” Her attorney further described the mistreatment as actions that “anyone with basic common sense” would find “completely unacceptable.”
The Austin Police Department has no record of a report regarding the incident, adding another layer of concern about the daycare’s handling of such severe misconduct. The legal battle is now set to unfold as Dominguez seeks justice and ensures heightened safety for other children still under the daycare’s care.
In summary, a Texas father’s discovery via a daycare livestream has led to a $1 million lawsuit against The Children’s Courtyard in Austin. The incident highlights recurring safety failures at the daycare chain, posing serious questions about their commitment to child protection.