US News

In Texas, the police generally cannot search your phone without a warrant, even if you're arrested. This protection stems from the Fourth Amendment, which safeguards against unreasonable searches and seizures. Law enforcement needs a court-issued warrant to access your phone’s data. However, there are exceptions, such as if you voluntarily give consent or if there's an emergency where immediate access is necessary. Key Exceptions to Phone Privacy Although a warrant is required in most cases, there are exceptions that allow law enforcement to bypass this requirement. One of the most common exceptions is consent. If you voluntarily hand over your phone to the police or give them permission to search it, they can lawfully go through your data. Another significant exception involves exig...

Coin collectors and investors alike are abuzz with excitement over a rare 1933 $500 coin that is set to go up for auction soon. This stunning piece, struck at the San Francisco Mint, is not just another collectible; it’s a piece of history that showcases the intricate craftsmanship of American minting. The Significance of the 1933 $500 Coin Minted in 1933, this particular coin is exceptional due to its rarity. It was one of only a few $500 coins ever produced, making it a highly sought-after item among numismatists. The San Francisco Mint produced these coins during a tumultuous period in American history when the nation was grappling with the Great Depression. Although these coins were initially intended for circulation, most were melted down due to their face value being far less t...

After 31 years of captivating treasure hunters across France, the renowned hunt for the "Golden Owl" may have come to an end. Official social media accounts linked to the treasure hunt announced that the token required to claim the grand prize has reportedly been discovered, marking the potential conclusion of one of the longest-running treasure hunts in history. The hunt, officially named “On the Trail of the Golden Owl,” was launched in 1993 with the release of a book by author Régis Hauser, who wrote under the pseudonym Max Valentin, and artist Michel Becker. The book contained a series of 11 puzzles that participants had to solve, with an additional hidden 12th puzzle providing the final clues to the token’s location. Treasure hunters, known as "owlers," scoured France for over thre...

Tennessee authorities are investigating Impact Plastics after 11 workers were swept away by the catastrophic flooding caused by Hurricane Helene. The Nolichucky River, swollen from intense rainfall, overwhelmed the small town of Erwin, where the factory is located. Despite warnings and worsening conditions, some workers claimed they were not permitted to leave the facility until it was too late. Tragically, only five of the 11 workers have been rescued. Two are confirmed dead, and four remain missing. Criminal and Workplace Investigations Begin The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) has launched a probe to determine if any criminal violations occurred, per District Attorney Steven R. Finney’s request. Concurrently, the Tennessee Occupational Safety and Health Administration (TOS...

Drivers often find themselves in situations where they need to take a break from the road, especially in cities like Fort Lauderdale. Long trips, exhaustion, or even the effects of alcohol might prompt someone to pull over and sleep in their car. While this may seem like a practical solution, Florida has specific laws regarding sleeping in vehicles, and understanding these regulations is crucial to avoid citations or even DUI charges. Can You Legally Sleep in Your Car in Florida? In Florida, there is no federal law that outright prohibits sleeping in your car, but state laws are more restrictive. According to Florida law, drivers are permitted to sleep in their vehicle for up to three hours. It’s important to note that sleeping in a car overnight is not allowed, and this three-hour w...

Dumpster diving, often seen as a controversial yet intriguing practice, involves searching through waste containers for usable items that others have discarded. In New York, the legality and ethics of this activity are well-defined, making it a popular option for those looking to reduce waste or find unique treasures. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the legality, safety considerations, and best spots for dumpster diving in the city. Legality of Dumpster Diving in New York In New York, dumpster diving is generally legal, thanks to a landmark Supreme Court ruling in 1988 (California v. Greenwood). The court established that there is no expectation of privacy for items placed in public trash. However, while the practice is permissible in public areas, several legal consi...

If you’re driving in Pennsylvania and find yourself pulled over by law enforcement, it’s essential to know your rights, especially regarding your mobile phone. While you might feel pressured to hand over your phone when asked, understanding your legal protections can help you navigate this situation more effectively. Fourth Amendment Protections The Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution protects citizens from unreasonable searches and seizures. This right was reinforced in the 2014 Supreme Court case Riley v. California, which established that police must obtain a warrant to search an individual's mobile phone. The Pennsylvania Supreme Court upheld this principle in a 2018 ruling, asserting that attempts by law enforcement to access cell phone data without a warrant violate Fourt...

Did you know that a Washington quarter in your spare change could be worth hundreds of dollars? A recent eBay auction saw a 1983 Washington quarter with a unique minting error sell for an incredible $300. It’s a reminder that rare coins, especially those with distinctive features, can be surprisingly valuable. Why Is This Coin So Special? The quarter in question was minted in Denver in 1983 and features a rare error: an offset stamp. This particular defect made the coin highly sought after by collectors. Minting errors like these are considered one-of-a-kind, increasing their worth significantly. How to Spot Valuable Washington Quarters If you're curious whether you have a valuable Washington quarter, here are a few tips for identification: Check for Errors: Look for offset...

Numismatics, the collection and study of coins, has grown into a lucrative hobby for many. Among the most sought-after finds is a 25-cent coin that could be worth an astounding $600,000. Imagine discovering that an ordinary-looking quarter in your collection is actually a rare treasure! Why Coin Collecting Is More Than Just a Hobby Coin collecting is not just about the potential for financial gain—it's a journey through history. Coins from different eras offer a tangible connection to the past, each telling a unique story. Among collectors, quarters minted with rare minting errors, historical significance, and pristine condition have become particularly valuable. But what makes this 25-cent coin so special? The $600,000 25-Cent Coin: A Closer Look This particular quarter, minte...

New York's rent control and stabilization laws have long been a central issue in the state's real estate market. These regulations, particularly in New York City, are designed to limit rent increases and protect tenants in an increasingly expensive housing market. Overview of Rent Control and Rent Stabilization Rent control limits rent increases to a capped amount, usually applied to buildings constructed before 1947, with leases signed before July 1, 1971. Rent stabilization allows for incremental rent increases within state-imposed limits and covers buildings constructed between February 1, 1947, and December 31, 1973. The 2019 Housing Stability and Tenant Protection Act (HSTPA) introduced stricter regulations, preventing many units from "graduating" out of rent stabilizati...