Thursday, November 6, 2025

Detainee Found Dead With 121 Pills as Board Highlights Systemic Failures

Detainee Found Dead With 121 Pills as Board Highlights Systemic Failures

Overview of the Report

A recent city oversight report has revealed significant failures within the Rikers Island jail system, particularly in securing housing areas and responding to medical emergencies. The report highlights the death of 38-year-old Ramel Powell, who died on February 19 after acute intoxication from a powerful synthetic cannabinoid known as MDMB-4en-PINACA. According to the findings, Powell had 121 pills and multiple synthetic drugs in his cell at the time of his death.

The Board of Correction’s First Report and Recommendations on 2025 Deaths in Custody details the deaths of five detainees between the start of the year and March 31. These incidents have raised concerns about a "pattern of noncompliance" with safety protocols and a lack of urgency in addressing medical emergencies.

Key Findings and Failures

Powell's death is one of 11 fatalities reported this year in Department of Correction custody. The report noted that correction staff in two of the five cases did not immediately notify medical personnel when they witnessed detainees in distress. Additionally, facility commanders delayed required notifications to central DOC leadership in four of the cases. Four of the five deceased individuals had documented mental-health histories and were receiving psychiatric medication while in custody.

In the case of Powell, he was found unconscious in his cell with foam around his mouth hours after surveillance footage showed him entering another cell where people were smoking a white rolled-up object described as a joint. An officer assigned to the unit's "B" post observed the activity but did not intervene or call for medical help. When Powell was later discovered unresponsive, he showed signs of rigor mortis, indicating he had been dead for some time. He was pronounced dead at 2:14 a.m., according to correction records.

A search of his cell uncovered a rock-like substance that tested positive for the opioid Tramadol, a folder laced with synthetic cannabinoid "spice," and 121 loose and packaged pills. The officer who failed to check on Powell was suspended and later fired for dereliction of duty.

Additional Cases Highlighting Systemic Issues

Just five days after Powell's death, Terrence Moore, a 55-year-old detainee with a history of epilepsy and mental illness, collapsed and died inside a Manhattan courthouse holding pen after reportedly ingesting a pill. Witnesses told investigators that Moore appeared sluggish and began vomiting before collapsing. Correction officers responded quickly, administering three doses of Narcan and performing CPR until EMS arrived, but Moore was pronounced dead at 4:52 p.m. on February 24.

The city’s Office of Chief Medical Examiner ruled his death an accident caused by a toxic mix of synthetic cannabinoids. Moore had long struggled with serious health issues, including seizures and depression with psychotic features. He was housed at the North Infirmary Command, a Rikers jail for medically fragile detainees, and had repeatedly requested medical help in the weeks before his death.

Another case involved 20-year-old Ariel Quidone, who entered city custody on March 7, 2025, after a court-ordered psychiatric evaluation. Clinicians quickly determined he had a serious mental illness and transferred him to an observation unit at the island’s Robert N. Davoren Center. Days later, Quidone began vomiting repeatedly and showing clear signs of distress, but the officer assigned to his housing area did not call for medical attention. When a suicide-prevention aide checked on him that afternoon, Quidone was found unresponsive in his cell.

Recommendations for Reform

The board urged both the Department of Correction and Correctional Health Services (CHS), which oversees medical care, to take immediate steps to strengthen oversight. It called on CHS to guarantee that individuals moved to isolation units for medical reasons continue to receive the same level of mental observation and monitoring.

For DOC, the board proposed a sweeping list of reforms — including mandatory retraining for staff on medical emergencies, supervision, and logbook procedures; routine and unannounced contraband searches; and a shift from paper to electronic record-keeping to prevent falsification of logs.

The city’s Department of Investigations has since March 2019 pushed DOC to stop using handwritten logbooks to record incidents behind bars. The board also urged the department to expand its Video Monitoring Unit to catch lapses in real time, improve tracking of delayed incident notifications, and reinforce the requirement that staff alert superiors immediately when they spot contraband or health emergencies.

Conclusion

These reports and recommendations highlight the urgent need for systemic changes within the Rikers Island jail system. With ongoing failures in securing housing areas and responding to medical emergencies, it is clear that immediate action is necessary to prevent further tragedies. The board's findings serve as a critical reminder of the importance of accountability, transparency, and reform in the criminal justice system.

Friday, October 3, 2025

Warnings of Drugged Business Cards Lack Credibility

Warnings of Drugged Business Cards Lack Credibility

Understanding the Claim About Burundanga

A recent warning circulating on social media, particularly Facebook, has raised concerns about a new method used by criminals in the United States. The claim suggests that individuals are using business cards coated with a drug called burundanga to incapacitate victims and take advantage of them. However, after careful examination, this claim has been rated as false.

The warning, which was shared widely in late September and early October 2025, was framed as a "police warning" directed at women. It described an incident where a woman at a gas station received a business card from a man who claimed to be a painter. She accepted the card out of courtesy but later felt dizzy due to a strong odor. According to the story, she managed to escape by opening her car window and honking her horn to get help.

The Reality Behind the Warning

Despite the alarming nature of the message, there is no evidence that the events described actually took place. In fact, the scenario presented would be impossible if the drug in question were indeed burundanga. This drug is real, though it is uncommon in the United States. It is made with the chemical scopolamine and is typically administered in liquid, spray, or powder form through foods and beverages.

The U.S. Department of State issued a travel warning in June 2023 regarding burundanga, noting that it is an odorless, tasteless, memory-blocking substance used to incapacitate and rob unwary victims. The warning was prompted by an increase in crimes involving sedatives in Colombia, where the drug is more commonly used. Victims in these cases were often targeted through online dating applications.

What Is Burundanga?

Burundanga is also known as "devil's breath," a term used to describe scopolamine in powdered form. As a medicine, it is sometimes used to treat postoperative nausea and motion sickness. If someone unknowingly ingests it, they may experience symptoms such as dry mouth, difficulty speaking, lethargy, hallucinations, rapid heartbeat, and disorientation. In larger doses, it can cause respiratory failure and even death.

However, it is important to note that medical scopolamine is typically administered through a patch on the skin, while burundanga is inhaled or ingested. Its effects do not dissipate simply by opening a window, making the story in the Facebook posts implausible.

Investigating the Claims

My Healthy of Life conducted a thorough investigation into the claims surrounding burundanga and found no credible reports of its use in the United States. Most of the reports about its criminal use come from Colombia, including a story from the Bogotá Post in September 2025.

The story shared on social media lacks specific details that would make it verifiable. For example, it does not mention when the incident occurred, the city or country, the name of the woman involved, or which police department issued the warning. A genuine incident would likely include some identifying information.

Additionally, My Healthy of Life could not find any credible news reports from the past few years about victims being drugged in secret by business cards. This lack of supporting evidence further casts doubt on the authenticity of the warning.

Conclusion

While the warning about burundanga is concerning, it appears to be based on misinformation. The scenario described is not only unlikely but also contradicts what is known about the drug’s properties. It is essential for individuals to remain vigilant and skeptical of such claims, especially when they lack verifiable details. As always, staying informed and relying on credible sources is the best way to protect oneself from potential threats.

Wednesday, September 3, 2025

Kelley Wolf to Enter Treatment Center Amid Divorce and 3 Charges

Kelley Wolf to Enter Treatment Center Amid Divorce and 3 Charges

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Kelley Wolf's Court Appearance and Treatment Plans

Kelley Wolf, a star from Real World: New Orleans, recently appeared in court to address charges related to electronic harassment and doxxing her estranged husband, Scott Wolf. During the hearing on Tuesday, September 2, she revealed her intention to enter a rehabilitation treatment center, which is set to begin on September 12. This decision came after she was arrested on August 26 for alleged violations of a temporary stipulated agreement.

Charges and Legal Proceedings

Kelley faces three misdemeanor charges: one for electronic communications harassment and two for the electronic disclosure of personal identifying information. These charges are linked to events that occurred on August 25 and 26. The court records indicate that these charges are considered domestic violence-related.

During the arraignment, Kelley stated, “I have informed everyone that needs to know, I will be attending a [treatment center] starting on September 12.” She expressed excitement about the move, mentioning that her brother would accompany her and that she had previously recommended the facility as a mental health professional.

The judge denied the prosecutor’s request for proof of compliance with the pre-trial release conditions, which included drug testing and participation in treatment. However, the judge did not rule on whether Kelley should be barred from posting on social media during her release period.

Background of the Arrest

Kelley was arrested and taken to Summit County Jail on August 26 after a series of confrontational posts on her Instagram. These posts allegedly doxxed her friends and family, including sharing Scott’s personal phone number. Some messages also involved communication with their three minor children—Jackson, Miller, and Lucy.

These actions violated a temporary stipulated agreement that was granted on August 26. The agreement included a social media and press gag order, prohibiting both parties from discussing each other, their marriage, their children, or their divorce. It also barred them from making disparaging remarks about each other to the children.

Prior to her arrest, Kelley posted on her Instagram Stories, expressing confusion and fear. She wrote, “The police are at my house to arrest me. I have no idea why. I am not suicidal. I am no danger to anyone. I have done nothing. I am so scared. So confused.”

Conditions of Release and Restraining Orders

After being charged with two class B misdemeanors for electronic disclosure of personal identifying information and one class B misdemeanor for electronic communications harassment, Kelley was released from jail on August 28. A condition of her release required her to avoid alcohol and narcotics unless prescribed by a medical practitioner. She was also mandated to participate in medical, behavioral, psychological, or psychiatric treatment.

Additionally, she was prohibited from communicating, threatening, or harassing Scott or entering his home with their children. That same day, Scott filed a new temporary restraining order against Kelley. Judge Richard Mrazik ordered her to avoid any direct or indirect contact with Scott or their children, except during mediation sessions with a court-qualified mediator.

Custody Arrangements and Previous Events

Scott and Kelley announced their separation in June after 21 years of marriage. Scott filed for divorce on June 10, and days later, a female friend called 911 regarding Kelley’s “escalating mental health crisis.” She was taken to a local hospital by sheriffs in Utah County, Utah.

Despite this, Kelley claimed she was "taken against my will" and survived an involuntary 5150. Authorities later confirmed that she had made concerning comments to a family member and deputies.

In July, the couple entered into a temporary agreement outlining custody arrangements, financial matters, and communication guidelines. The agreement was updated on August 26, before Kelley's arrest. It maintained Scott's temporary sole physical custody of their children and allowed Kelley supervised parenting time.

Public Statements and Legal Updates

On August 15, Scott broke his silence, claiming that Kelley was making "disturbing" and "entirely false" allegations against him. He alleged that she was using "psychological abuse, child abuse, child endangerment, stealing with passports" to gain custody of their children.

In response, Kelley claimed her actions were aimed at creating urgency to regain joint custody. She emphasized her belief that Scott would not abuse their children and described the loss of her career, reputation, and family.

Three days after Scott spoke out, Kelley’s attorney withdrew, according to a court document. The estranged couple is scheduled to appear in court again on September 10.

Monday, August 25, 2025

People Reveal Their Most "Disturbing" Encounter — I'm Shivering

People Reveal Their Most "Disturbing" Encounter — I'm Shivering

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Understanding the Impact of Unsettling Encounters

When our instincts tell us something is wrong, it's often a sign that we should pay attention. These stories from individuals who have encountered disturbing people highlight the importance of trusting our gut feelings and being vigilant in our interactions with others. From unsettling behaviors to outright violence, these accounts reveal the hidden dangers that can lurk behind seemingly normal appearances.

Real-Life Experiences That Left a Lasting Impression

  1. One story shared by a Redditor involved an ICU patient who had no remorse for running down a motorcyclist during a fit of road rage. The individual spoke about the incident as if it were a trivial event, leaving the listener shocked and disturbed.

  2. Another account described a man who followed the user home from school. His persistent behavior eventually led to a tragic outcome when he was convicted of murder. The eerie similarity between the victim and the user made the experience even more unsettling.

  3. A college roommate’s younger brother was described as having a "deadness" in his eyes and rarely speaking. Years later, it was revealed that he committed a brutal murder, highlighting the danger of not recognizing red flags early on.

  4. A family member's involvement in harassment and legal issues further emphasized how disturbing individuals can affect those around them, especially through online platforms.

  5. An ex-stepmother was noted for her detachment from reality and manipulative behavior. Her attempt to sell the ashes of the user's father added another layer of horror to the situation.

  6. A military supervisor was found guilty of sexual assault and kidnapping, showing how dangerous individuals can rise through the ranks despite their harmful actions.

  7. A screenwriting class participant exhibited concerning behavior, including discussions about drugs and violent gangs, which ultimately led to his expulsion from the course due to safety concerns.

  8. Another individual shared a story about someone who enjoyed harming animals, viewing it as a game. This behavior raised serious questions about the person's mental state and potential for violence.

  9. A high school friend was described as lacking empathy and actively working to undermine the user. This highlights the danger of people who appear friendly but have malicious intentions.

  10. A liquor store employee's brother was later revealed to have killed his family, emphasizing the need to be cautious around those who seem quiet or uninvolved.

  11. A coworker who collected hair from desks raised concerns about his motives and potential for harm.

  12. A popular high school student was found to be a serial rapist, showcasing how dangerous individuals can blend into social circles without suspicion.

  13. A man's act of defacing a woman's car with feces demonstrated a level of cruelty that left others in shock and disbelief.

  14. A wealthy individual's ignorance of his servant's enslavement revealed the extent of his detachment from reality and the potential for exploitation.

  15. A seemingly normal guy turned out to be a murderer, proving that even the most ordinary individuals can harbor dark secrets.

  16. A past relationship involving bondage and a subsequent accidental killing underscored the importance of recognizing warning signs and taking action when necessary.

The Importance of Awareness and Vigilance

These stories serve as reminders that we should never ignore our instincts. Whether it's a strange behavior, an unsettling presence, or a feeling of discomfort, paying attention to these signals can help prevent dangerous situations. It's crucial to remain aware of our surroundings and the people we interact with, as the line between normalcy and danger can be thin.

Resources for Support

If you or someone you know has experienced any form of abuse or violence, there are resources available to provide support. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offers helpline services at 1-800-950-6264. For those affected by sexual assault, the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE provides assistance and referrals.

By sharing these stories, we hope to raise awareness and encourage individuals to trust their instincts. Every encounter can be a learning opportunity, and staying informed can make a significant difference in our safety and well-being.