Attorney General Todd Rokita’s Big Tech fight pays off with court victory over Google monopoly
Attorney General Todd Rokita’s Big Tech fight pays off with court victory over Google monopoly
AUGUST 7, 2024
“Google is a monopolist, and it has acted as one to maintain its monopoly.”
Thus declared a U.S. district court this week as it ruled in favor of plaintiffs — Indiana, 51 other states and territories, and the U.S. Department of Justice — who sued the Big Tech giant over its illegal monopolistic misconduct in connection with its search function and search text advertising.
In Indiana, Attorney General Todd Rokita and his team played a leading role in coordinating the efforts of the plaintiff states litigating with the U.S. Justice Department’s Antitrust Division against Google in this case.
“From day one, I have made clear that my office would not tolerate Big Tech riding roughshod over the rights and interests of everyday Hoosiers,” Attorney General Rokita said. “Once again, we are making good on this commitment. We are holding Google accountable for its illegal and unacceptable practices.”
The court’s decision finds that Google has used exclusive distribution agreements to limit competition for online search services, depriving users of innovative alternatives and enabling Google to charge supracompetitive prices for general search text ads relied upon by many businesses in Indiana and beyond.
Under Attorney General Rokita’s leadership, Indiana — which was one of 11 plaintiff states to join the federal government’s initial monopolization case against Google — continued its efforts to litigate this groundbreaking case from start to finish for the benefit of consumers.
“These companies are not permitted to preserve their market dominance through exclusionary tactics,” Attorney General Rokita said. “Rather, they must compete in the free market to maintain the favor of their customers.”
The court decision is attached.
JURY FINDS DEFENDANT GUILTY AS CHARGED IN INFANT CO-SLEEPING DEATH CASE
JURY FINDS DEFENDANT GUILTY AS CHARGED IN INFANT CO-SLEEPING DEATH CASE
AUGUST 7, 2024
Evansville, IN – Prosecutor Diana Moers announces that on July 31, 2024, a jury found Taylor Alexis Smith guilty as charged for the death of her infant. Smith was charged with Neglect of a Dependent Resulting in Death, a Level 1 Felony; Possession of Methamphetamine, a Level 6 Felony; Unlawful Possession of Syringe, a Level 6 Felony; and Possession of Paraphernalia; a Class C Misdemeanor. The Honorable Magistrate Judge Celia M. Pauli of the Vanderburgh County Circuit Court presided.
On June 8, 2022, Officers were dispatched to 27 W. Oregon Street in reference to an unresponsive infant. The American Medical Response and Evansville Fire Department made several attempts to resuscitate the infant, Wade Wilson, but the 13-day-old baby was declared deceased on-scene. The home was extremely unsanitary, lacking running water and appropriate sleeping space for the infant. Upon receiving a warrant, a search of the home uncovered the presence of methamphetamine and syringes.
The Defendant, Taylor Alexis Smith, appeared to be under the influence during her interaction with the responding Officers and later disclosed recent methamphetamine use. Smith admitted to sleeping with her baby and stated she woke up with the infant underneath her and was unresponsive.
Infant Wade Wilson was born on May 27, 2024, and tested positive on drug screens for methamphetamine at birth. The Department of Child Services and Vanderburgh
County Juvenile Court ordered the Defendant, Taylor Smith, not to have contact with her son. Despite this order, Smith continued to have contact with Wade Wilson and actively use methamphetamine. Smith was consistently warned against the risks of her drug use to her newborn child’s life and was also warned of the dangers of co-sleeping with her child. Despite the persistent warnings, Defendant continued to engage in this behaviors.
The state presented testimony from the American Medical Response, Indiana State Police, Deaconess, and Department of Child Services, as well as photographs of the home showing the unsanitary and unsafe conditions, an abundance of methamphetamine and paraphernalia found at the scene, and police body camera footage. At the conclusion of
the 3-day trial, the jury found Taylor Alexis Smith guilty as charged. Prosecutor Moers stated:
“The death of an infant shakes us all. This Defendant is an addict who refused to follow strict no-contact orders for her son—who tested positive for drugs the day he was born. The Defendant gaining access to her son and co-sleeping with him while high led to the child’s death. We will never forget this innocent baby and will pray that his memory encourages others to seek help and assist those in need.”
Moers went on to state: “We should never have to prosecute another one of thesecases. If you or someone you know are an addict and in need of help, you must reach out.
The life of an innocent child could have been saved in this case. Our community has a plethora of resources for those struggling with addiction to get the assistance they need- to find a comprehensive list you can start by googling the Indiana Substance Abuse Council or talk with your local hospital, law enforcement, shelter, or other medical facility.”
Prosecutor Moers thanks Detective Karin Montgomery and Officer John
Pieszchalski for their response and thorough investigation in this case, the American Medical Response and Evansville Fire Department for their efforts to save the infant and daily efforts to serve citizens of Vanderburgh County, the Department of Child Services, Deaconess Hospital, and the Indiana State Police for their efforts in this case. Prosecutor Moers extends a special thank you to her Deputy Ian Blair whose specialization in prosecuting child abuse and neglect cases led to success in this case, and all her office staff including Winston Lin, Kiersten Butler, Morgan Richardville, Tony Carden, and Jessica Pollock who assisted in this case to bring justice to Vanderburgh County for the reckless death of a baby.
Sentencing is scheduled for August 22, 2024, in front of the Honorable Magistrate Judge Celia M. Pauli of the Vanderburgh County Circuit Court. The Defendant could face up to 40 years.
The infant’s father, Timothy Allen Wilson, is also charged with a series of crimes in connection with this case and is awaiting trial in October.
Human Relations Commission Announces Annual Dinner & Mayor’s Celebration of Diversity Awards
Human Relations Commission Announces Annual Dinner & Mayor’s Celebration of Diversity Awards
AUGUST 7, 2024
Rev. Dr. William Barber II to speak at the Human Relations Commission Annual Dinner & Mayor’s Celebration of Diversity Awards
(Evansville, IN) – The Evansville-Vanderburgh County Human Relations Commission will hold its Annual Dinner and Mayor’s Celebration of Diversity Awards on Friday, November 1, 2024, at 6:30 p.m., at the Old National Events Plaza. The keynote speaker will be Rev. Dr. William J. Barber II. Mayor Stephanie Terry will present the 2024 Mayor’s Celebration of Diversity Awards. Rev. Dr. William J. Barber II is President and Senior Lecturer of Repairers of the Breach; Co-Chair of the Poor People’s Campaign: A National Call for Moral Revival; Bishop with The Fellowship of Affirming Ministries; Executive Board Member of the Christian Church Disciples of Christ; Professor in the Practice of Public Theology and Public Policy; and Founding Director of the Center for Public Theology and Public Policy at Yale Divinity School. He is the author of four books: We Are Called to Be a Movement; Revive Us Again: Vision and Action in Moral Organizing; The Third Reconstruction: Moral Mondays, Fusion Politics, and The Rise of a New Justice Movement; and Forward Together: A Moral Message for The Nation. His new book White Poverty: How Exposing Myths about Race and Class Can Reconstruct American Democracy was released in June 2024.
Dr. Barber is regularly featured in media outlets such as MSNBC, CNN, the New York Times, Washington Post, and The Nation magazine. He was named one of 2020’s BET 100 Entertainers and Innovators, and one of the 2019 recipients of the North Carolina Award, the state’s highest civilian honor. He is a 2018 MacArthur Foundation Genius Award recipient, a 2015 recipient of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Award, and the recipient of the Puffin Award. Dr. Barber has had twelve honorary degrees conferred upon him. He earned a bachelor’s degree from North Carolina Central University, a Master of Divinity from Duke University, and a Doctorate from Drew University with a concentration in Public Policy and Pastoral Care
The 2024 Mayor’s Celebration of Diversity Awards recognizes businesses, organizations and individuals that embrace and celebrate diversity. Please visit www.evansville.in.gov/diversityawards to submit a nomination for the Mayor’s Celebration of Diversity Awards. The deadline to nominate is Friday, September 27, 2024. Corporate sponsorships are also available. For additional information, don’t hesitate to contact the Human Relations Commission at (812) 436-4927, hrc@evansville.in.gov, or visit the 2024 Human Relations Commission Annual Dinner.
UE to announce retail tenants for Lincoln Commons during Wednesday grand opening
UE to announce retail tenants for Lincoln Commons during Wednesday’s grand opening
AUGUSt 7, 2024
EVANSVILLE, IND. (08/06/2024) The University of Evansville (UE) will announce the tenants of the 3,500-square-foot retail space on the first floor of Lincoln Commons during a grand opening ceremony on Wednesday, August 7.
The four-story building located on campus at the corner of Weinbach and Lincoln Avenues will house approximately 123 upperclassmen beginning in the Fall 2024 semester.
The ribbon cutting and grand opening ceremony will take place at 11:00 a.m. CDT. They will include remarks from President Christopher M. Pietruszkiewicz, Evansville Mayor Stephanie Terry, Dean of Students Dr. Rachel S. Carpenter, Student Government Association President Benton Simpson, and other University and community leaders.
Local Author Spotlight: Dr. Matthew J. Hanka | Aug 12
Join us for our upcoming Local Author Spotlight featuring Matthew J. Hanka, Ph.D., a distinguished Professor of Political Science at the University of Southern Indiana. Dr. Hanka will be discussing his insightful book, What is Happening in Your Community?: Why Community Development Matters.
Event Details:
Date: Monday, August 12, 2024
Time: 6:30 PM
Location: Browning Gallery (lower level)
Dr. Hanka’s book explores the critical role that community development plays in enhancing the quality of life in our communities. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn about the impact of community development, followed by a Q&A session and book signing.
About the Author:
Dr. Hanka has an extensive background in political science, community development, and housing policy, with a career that spans over a decade at the University of Southern Indiana. His research and experience in community development offer valuable insights for anyone interested in making a positive impact in their community.
Come and be inspired to create change and connect with like-minded individuals who share a passion for community development.
KOUNTRY WAYNE AND FRIENDS
KOUNTRY WAYNE AND FRIENDS
TOUR TO THE EVENTS PLAZA NEXT MONTH
TICKETS GO ON SALE FRIDAY, JULY 8, AT 10 AM
Evansville, IN – August 6, 2024 – Get ready for a remarkable night of comedy as Kountry Wayne and Friends take the stage at Old National Events Plaza on September 27, 2024. Wayne Colley, famously known as Kountry Wayne, has become a rising star in the comedy industry since his viral breakout in 2014.
Known for his hilarious digital sketches featuring original characters and celebrity cameos, Wayne’s unique brand of humor has captivated millions across Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. The social media celebrity has amassed more than 13 million followers on Meta platforms. His YouTube videos have raked in over 1.3 billion views and continue to climb.
In 2017, Kountry Wayne performed 150 shows across the nation on his highly successful Child Support Tour. His authenticity and resilience resonate with audiences seeking humor that transcends cultural boundaries, resulting in sold-out performances wherever he tours.
Wayne’s Straight Out The Mud tour, produced by Live Nation, cemented his popularity, culminating in a standout appearance at the Netflix is a Joke Festival. He released his highly anticipated first one-hour comedy special, “A Woman’s Prayer,” in 2023.
Beyond the stage, Wayne has showcased his acting prowess in the BET original Christmas rom com “Holiday Heartbreak” and made memorable appearances on MTV’s “Wild ‘N Out.” His versatility shines through in his hosting role on the BET+ comedy clip show “I Love Us” and his performances in feature films like “Strange Love” on Amazon Prime and the Peacock original “Praise This,” produced by Will Packer.
For more information about Kountry Wayne, visit www.kountrywayne.com
Ticket Information:
What: Kountry Wayne and Friends
When: Friday, September 27, 2024, at 7:30 PM
Where: Old National Events Plaza | 715 Locust Street | Evansville, IN 47708
Tickets: Tickets start at $31.00 plus applicable fees and tax.
Tickets are available at Ticketmaster.com or the Old National Events Plaza Box Office.
IDEM Forecasts Air Quality Action Day for Today and Tuesday in Southern Indiana Regions
IDEM Forecasts Air Quality Action Day for Today and Tuesday in Southern Indiana Regions
| INDIANAPOLIS – The Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) has forecast Air Quality Action Days (AQADs) for Monday, Aug. 5 and Tuesday, Aug.6, 2024, for two Indiana regions.
Ozone levels are expected to be in the Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups range (Orange) in the following areas:
A system of high pressure across the lower Ohio Valley has allowed some light smoke to reach the surface. This combined with light winds and sunny skies may lead to ozone levels that reach the Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (USG) range in these areas. Hoosiers can visit SmogWatch.IN.gov to:
Air Quality Action Days are in effect from midnight to 11:59 p.m. (24-hours) on the specified dates. Some municipalities have additional open burning restrictions on AQADs. For more information, see idem.IN.gov/openburning/laws-and-rules. About IDEM IDEM (idem.IN.gov) implements federal and state regulations regarding the environment. Through compliance assistance, incentive programs and educational outreach, the agency encourages and aids businesses and citizens in protecting Hoosiers and our environment. |
USI Athletics debuts new team bus
USI Athletics debuts new team bus
AUGUST 7, 2024
University of Southern Indiana Athletics debuted a new team bus graphic design on Tuesday, August 6 outside of the Screaming Eagles Arena. The bus, operated by Timi’s Tours Charter Bus Service, will be utilized by USI’s 19 varsity intercollegiate sports teams that compete at the NCAA Division I level.
On Tuesday, USI Women’s Soccer was the first team to board the bus as they headed to an exhibition matchup against Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, Illinois.
The striking bus wrap, which features a large USI Athletic’s Screaming Eagle and trademark red, blue and white colors and logos, was created by USI’s University Creative and Print Department.
“We are extremely excited to see the USI Athletics branded bus on the road,” said Jon Mark Hall, Vice President and Director of Athletics. “It looks awesome and will be a great representation of our brand as our teams travel throughout the United States. We are thankful our teams have a new point of pride as they travel.”