SUMMARY: The Trump administration is rapidly expanding immigrant detention by reopening private prisons through no-bid contracts, notably with Tennessee-based CoreCivic. One key facility is the 1,033-bed prison in Leavenworth, Kansas, historically known for criminal incarceration but now targeted for migrant detention. ICE cites a “compelling urgency” for beds, bypassing competitive bidding, sparking legal battles and local resistance citing the prison’s problematic past, including violence and neglect. CoreCivic and Geo Group are capitalizing on escalating demand linked to Trump’s deportation policies, with multi-billion-dollar Congressional funding proposals fueling a “gold rush” for profits despite controversies over contract transparency and facility conditions.

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SUMMARY: Katie Irwin, a Group B strep meningitis survivor from South Knoxville, found hope and healing through her marble collection. Experiencing health setbacks in school, her family sought community support during her hospitalization. When her dad asked for prayers on Facebook, people began sending her thousands of marbles from around the world. These colorful stones became more than just collectibles; they offered Katie therapeutic comfort, joy, and a sense of calm. Years later, she still treasures the marbles, sharing their uplifting story with others. Her collection symbolizes resilience and the bright light she carries despite her darkest days.

Katie Erwin finds therapy and joy in her international marble collection, a symbol of hope and support from strangers and family.

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SUMMARY: Jerica Wilson, a Mid-South mother, reported her SNAP benefits stolen in December when over $1,000 was fraudulently used despite her having the card. A DHS employee, Destiny Miller, is charged with theft and identity fraud, accused of trading Wilson’s SNAP information for a hairstyle. Miller passed the card details to another woman caught using the benefits on camera. However, Wilson was later arrested for allegedly filing a false report and theft. Wilson denies the charges, claiming she is the victim and her attorney argues police erred. The West Memphis police have yet to comment on Wilson’s arrest.

A Mid-South mother has been scrambling for answers ever since she said her SNAP benefits were stolen last December. READ MORE: https://www.fox13memphis.com/news/you-took-everything-from-me-mid-south-mother-claims-snap-benefits-stolen-by-dhs-worker/article_3412dc6f-9e7b-40a1-b5fe-46f374f82e77.html

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