General Motors is cutting 1,700 jobs permanently and temporarily furloughing 5,500 employees due to slowing electric vehicle demand and changes in federal tax incentives. Detroit and Ohio plants are most affected, including Factory Zero, producing Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, and Hummer EVs. Watch as we break down who’s impacted, why GM is reducing production, and how the EV market slowdown is reshaping the auto industry.

GM Announces EV And Battery Production Cuts

Republican presidential nominee and former United States president Donald Trump on Tuesday (Nov 5) claimed that “massive cheating” was underway in the key swing state of Pennsylvania.

“A lot of talk about massive CHEATING in Philadelphia. Law Enforcement coming!!!” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform, amid exceptionally high voting turnout in the state.

However, Trump’s claim was immediately shot down by Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner. Taking to social media, Krasner wrote, “There is no factual basis whatsoever within law enforcement to support this wild allegation.”

“If Donald J. Trump has any facts to support his wild allegations, we want them now. Right now. We are not holding our breath," Krasner said in a statement.

Philadelphia City Commissioner Seth Bluestein also said Trump’s comments were nothing but classic disinformation.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-vs-harris-first-exit-poll-show-favourability-drop-for-both-candidates-73-voters-fear-for-democracy-773723">Trump vs. Harris: First exit poll show favourability drop for both candidates; 73% voters fear for democracy</a>

“There is absolutely no truth to this allegation. It is yet another example of disinformation. Voting in Philadelphia has been safe and secure,” said Bluestein.

Earlier, a&nbsp;Philadelphia police department spokesman said he was not aware of any voting issue that may have occurred in the city.

Trump again made his claim of election fraud, citing problems in Detroit, Michigan as well.

Watch:&nbsp;US Elections 2024: Millions Of Voters Step Out To Cast Their Ballot

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“Philadelphia and Detroit! Heavy Law Enforcement is there!!!', Trump wrote on Truth Social.

Trump earlier said he would concede defeat in the elections if he thought they were “fair.”

"If I lose an election, if it's a fair election, I would be the first one to acknowledge it. So far I think it's been fair," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Republican presidential nominee and former United States president Donald Trump on Tuesday (Nov 5) claimed that “massive cheating” was underway in the key swing state of Pennsylvania.

Republican presidential nominee and former United States president Donald Trump on Tuesday (Nov 5) claimed that “massive cheating” was underway in the key swing state of Pennsylvania. “A lot of talk about massive CHEATING in Philadelphia. Law Enforcement coming!!!” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform, amid exceptionally high voting turnout in the state. However, Trump’s claim was immediately shot down by Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner. Taking to social media, Krasner wrote, “There is no factual basis whatsoever within law enforcement to support this wild allegation.” “If Donald J. Trump has any facts to support his wild allegations, we want them now. Right now. We are not holding our breath," Krasner said in a statement. Philadelphia City Commissioner Seth Bluestein also said Trump’s comments were nothing but classic disinformation. Also read: Trump vs. Harris: First exit poll show favourability drop for both candidates; 73% voters fear for democracy “There is absolutely no truth to this allegation. It is yet another example of disinformation. Voting in Philadelphia has been safe and secure,” said Bluestein. Earlier, a Philadelphia police department spokesman said he was not aware of any voting issue that may have occurred in the city. Trump again made his claim of election fraud, citing problems in Detroit, Michigan as well. Watch: US Elections 2024: Millions Of Voters Step Out To Cast Their Ballot × “Philadelphia and Detroit! Heavy Law Enforcement is there!!!', Trump wrote on Truth Social. Trump earlier said he would concede defeat in the elections if he thought they were “fair.” "If I lose an election, if it's a fair election, I would be the first one to acknowledge it. So far I think it's been fair," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump questions poll credibility, alleges ‘massive CHEATING’ in Philadelphia, Detroit

Days ahead of&nbsp;the 2024 United States presidential&nbsp;elections, American media outlet CNN had a ride along with an&nbsp;election worker in the US city of&nbsp;Detroit as she picked up ballots from dropbox, explaining how they are keeping those ballots secure while bringing them to the&nbsp;election commission before Election Day on November 5.&nbsp;

However, people reacted to the video shared on social media (Instagram) on Saturday (Nov 2) saying, "There's so much room for error".&nbsp;

Detroit elections supervisory technician, Lakingna Smith shared her experience in a video, explaining, "We get in the van, go to the ballot box. We open it up. Once we see the absentee ballots, we take them out and put them inside of the envelope, which is a certified bag."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/us-elections/easy-ways-to-check-your-voting-location-for-the-2024-us-presidential-election-772767">Also read:&nbsp;Easy ways to check your voting location for the 2024 US Presidential Election</a>

"There's a single, double and triple check. I check it, and then the next person checks it and makes sure that it is secure so that nobody messes with it. Then I tally up and bring them back to the election commission," she continued.

Meanwhile, as people commented on the post, one of the users wrote, "So much room for error. The only way to have 100% accurate elections is in-person voting with paper ballots. Why would we not want 100% accuracy?"&nbsp;

Another user wrote, "Voting should always be in person..."

Watch |&nbsp;US Elections 2024: What Is An Electoral College?

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One of the users said that it was an "open unsecured bag", adding that why is she tallying up ballots without a witness. The user added, "What's preventing her from removing or adding fraudulent ballots?"

Meanwhile, a few people also said that "it seems secure".&nbsp;

Three days are left for the US presidential elections, which will decide who will replace Joe Biden as the president. It is a tough race between Democratic nominee Kamala Harris and her Republican rival Donald Trump.&nbsp;

So far, more than 72 million votes have already been cast in America, according to a tracker maintained by the University of Florida.

(With inputs from agencies)

Days ahead of the 2024 United States presidential elections, American media outlet CNN had a ride along with an election worker in the US city of Detroit as she picked up ballots from dropbox, explaining how they are keeping those ballots secure while bringing them to the election commission before Election Day on November 5.

Days ahead of the 2024 United States presidential elections, American media outlet CNN had a ride along with an election worker in the US city of Detroit as she picked up ballots from dropbox, explaining how they are keeping those ballots secure while bringing them to the election commission before Election Day on November 5. However, people reacted to the video shared on social media (Instagram) on Saturday (Nov 2) saying, "There's so much room for error". Detroit elections supervisory technician, Lakingna Smith shared her experience in a video, explaining, "We get in the van, go to the ballot box. We open it up. Once we see the absentee ballots, we take them out and put them inside of the envelope, which is a certified bag." Also read: Easy ways to check your voting location for the 2024 US Presidential Election "There's a single, double and triple check. I check it, and then the next person checks it and makes sure that it is secure so that nobody messes with it. Then I tally up and bring them back to the election commission," she continued. Meanwhile, as people commented on the post, one of the users wrote, "So much room for error. The only way to have 100% accurate elections is in-person voting with paper ballots. Why would we not want 100% accuracy?" Another user wrote, "Voting should always be in person..." Watch | US Elections 2024: What Is An Electoral College? × One of the users said that it was an "open unsecured bag", adding that why is she tallying up ballots without a witness. The user added, "What's preventing her from removing or adding fraudulent ballots?" Meanwhile, a few people also said that "it seems secure". Three days are left for the US presidential elections, which will decide who will replace Joe Biden as the president. It is a tough race between Democratic nominee Kamala Harris and her Republican rival Donald Trump. So far, more than 72 million votes have already been cast in America, according to a tracker maintained by the University of Florida. (With inputs from agencies)

'So much room for error': Netizens react as US election worker collects ballots from dropbox

The Biden administration's push for a rapid transition to electric vehicles (EVs) is sparking a showdown with Detroit's automakers, threatening billions in profits and igniting debates over climate policy just as election tensions simmer. <o:p></o:p>

According to a Reuters analysis, the proposed Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations aim to slash tailpipe emissions significantly, mandating a surge in US EV market share to 67 per cent &nbsp;by 2032 from less than 8 per cent &nbsp;in 2023.<o:p></o:p>

Industry's concerns<o:p></o:p>

Detroit's major players, including General Motors (GM), Ford, and Stellantis, have expressed apprehension, citing the hefty investments and time needed to transition their predominantly truck-heavy fleets. <o:p></o:p>

GM, Ford, and Stellantis have collectively voiced worries about the feasibility of meeting the proposed targets, highlighting potential financial strains and job risks.<o:p></o:p>

The Alliance for Automotive Innovation has warned of possible fines amounting to $14 billion for failing to meet carbon dioxide targets.<o:p></o:p>

Union's dilemma<o:p></o:p>

The United Auto Workers (UAW), representing thousands in the industry, initially endorsed Biden's EV ambitions. However, they've since raised concerns over job security amid the transition, echoing worries voiced by automakers. The pressure is mounting on Biden as Michigan, a crucial battleground, remains pivotal in the political landscape.<o:p></o:p>

Mixed reactions and challenges<o:p></o:p>

Elon Musk and Tesla, the leading EV manufacturer, have urged even stricter regulations, advocating for a 69 per cent EV market share by 2032 and 100 per cent &nbsp;by 2035. Meanwhile, traditional automakers have urged the administration to streamline regulations, citing potential conflicts that could impede the transition and impact investments. Stellantis, in particular, emphasised the importance of plug-in hybrid technology and criticized the EPA for overlooking its market benefits.<o:p></o:p>

Despite the urgency, the US EV market lags behind Europe and China, posing a significant challenge for Detroit's automakers. Legacy automakers, such as Ford and GM, face an uphill battle as EVs constitute a mere fraction of their total sales. Stellantis aims to launch several EV models by 2024, including an all-electric Ram pickup and Jeep EVs, but the transition remains daunting.<o:p></o:p>

Climate pressures<o:p></o:p>

Environmental groups argue for stricter mandates, insisting on an all-electric fleet by 2035 to address the climate crisis. They contend that years of lenient regulations incentivized Detroit's focus on lucrative trucks and SUVs, exacerbating emissions. The proposed regulations signal a significant departure from past policies, aiming to steer automakers towards cleaner alternatives.<o:p></o:p>

Technological hurdles<o:p></o:p>

Complying with Biden's proposals would require substantial overhauls from Detroit's automakers. GM, for instance, is shifting focus to plug-in hybrids after previously dismissing them as inefficient. Both Ford and GM have faced challenges with their full-sized EV pickups, grappling with production setbacks and tepid sales.<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Reuters)<o:p></o:p>

The Biden administration's push for a rapid transition to electric vehicles (EVs) is sparking a showdown with Detroit's automakers, threatening billions in profits and igniting debates over climate policy just as election tensions simmer.

The Biden administration's push for a rapid transition to electric vehicles (EVs) is sparking a showdown with Detroit's automakers, threatening billions in profits and igniting debates over climate policy just as election tensions simmer. According to a Reuters analysis, the proposed Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations aim to slash tailpipe emissions significantly, mandating a surge in US EV market share to 67 per cent by 2032 from less than 8 per cent in 2023. Industry's concerns Detroit's major players, including General Motors (GM), Ford, and Stellantis, have expressed apprehension, citing the hefty investments and time needed to transition their predominantly truck-heavy fleets. GM, Ford, and Stellantis have collectively voiced worries about the feasibility of meeting the proposed targets, highlighting potential financial strains and job risks. The Alliance for Automotive Innovation has warned of possible fines amounting to $14 billion for failing to meet carbon dioxide targets. Union's dilemma The United Auto Workers (UAW), representing thousands in the industry, initially endorsed Biden's EV ambitions. However, they've since raised concerns over job security amid the transition, echoing worries voiced by automakers. The pressure is mounting on Biden as Michigan, a crucial battleground, remains pivotal in the political landscape. Mixed reactions and challenges Elon Musk and Tesla, the leading EV manufacturer, have urged even stricter regulations, advocating for a 69 per cent EV market share by 2032 and 100 per cent by 2035. Meanwhile, traditional automakers have urged the administration to streamline regulations, citing potential conflicts that could impede the transition and impact investments. Stellantis, in particular, emphasised the importance of plug-in hybrid technology and criticized the EPA for overlooking its market benefits. Despite the urgency, the US EV market lags behind Europe and China, posing a significant challenge for Detroit's automakers. Legacy automakers, such as Ford and GM, face an uphill battle as EVs constitute a mere fraction of their total sales. Stellantis aims to launch several EV models by 2024, including an all-electric Ram pickup and Jeep EVs, but the transition remains daunting. Climate pressures Environmental groups argue for stricter mandates, insisting on an all-electric fleet by 2035 to address the climate crisis. They contend that years of lenient regulations incentivized Detroit's focus on lucrative trucks and SUVs, exacerbating emissions. The proposed regulations signal a significant departure from past policies, aiming to steer automakers towards cleaner alternatives. Technological hurdles Complying with Biden's proposals would require substantial overhauls from Detroit's automakers. GM, for instance, is shifting focus to plug-in hybrids after previously dismissing them as inefficient. Both Ford and GM have faced challenges with their full-sized EV pickups, grappling with production setbacks and tepid sales. (With inputs from Reuters)

Biden's EV push pits Detroit profit against climate drive, industry leaders at odds

A Delta flight was recently forced to turn around an hour into the journey after passengers got covered in maggots which had fallen from a suitcase in the overhead cabin, according to multiple media reports.&nbsp;

<h2>What we know about the incident</h2>

The incident took place on a Delta flight, on Tuesday (Feb 13), which was headed for Detroit, Michigan from the Dutch capital city of Amsterdam.&nbsp;

“Really lovely to be 2 hours into an 8 hour @Delta to Amsterdam and find out there is rotten fish and maggots hitching a ride with us,” one passenger named Kelce said in a now deleted social media post.&nbsp;

The plane, Delta Flight DL133, turned around and landed back at the Schiphol Airport, according to reports.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/surgical-robot-kills-cancer-patient-after-burning-hole-in-internal-organs-grieving-husband-seeks-justice-690304">US: Surgical robot kills cancer patient after burning hole in internal organs, husband seeks justice</a>

Once the plane landed the passengers were asked to deboard so that the flight could be deep cleaned. According to reports, a&nbsp;suitcase containing fish which had apparently broken open mid-air is believed to be the culprit and was later destroyed.

<h2>‘Unfortunate flight’</h2>

In an interview with the Daily Mail, Kelce, one of the passengers, said that the Delta staff was able to identify the owner of the rotting suitcase and detained them on the plane after the rest of the travellers had left.&nbsp;

The passengers were compensated with 8,000 air miles, a hotel room, and a $30 meal ticket if they were delayed overnight, Kelce told the Daily Mail.&nbsp;

A passenger identified as Philip Schotte claimed that he was sitting next to a woman who was showered with “at least a dozen maggots,” according to a report by the British newspaper Metro.&nbsp;

“I don’t know what was going through my mind, I was trying to process it. Disgusted is one thing of course,” Schotte said as quoted by Metro.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, other passengers took to Reddit to recall the horror. “So I was on this unfortunate flight lol,” wrote one user who was allegedly on the flight. “My family and I were in the row directly in front of the maggots. The lady right behind us told the flight attendants the maggots were falling on her head.”&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/drug-bust-takes-dramatic-turn-after-spanish-police-rescue-alleged-smugglers-crew-taken-hostage-690363">Drug bust takes dramatic turn after Spanish police rescue alleged smuggler’s crew taken hostage</a>

“Ugh. I turned around and they were wiggling around on the seat. They moved us further in front though,” the user added.&nbsp;

<h2>Delta responds&nbsp;</h2>

“We apologise to the customers of Flight 133 AMS-DTW as their trip was interrupted due to an improperly packed carry-on bag,” Delta said in a statement to The Independent regarding the maggot incident.&nbsp;

It added, “The aircraft returned to the gate and passengers were placed on the next available flight. The aircraft was removed from service for cleaning.”

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

A Delta flight was recently forced to turn around an hour into the journey after passengers got covered in maggots which had fallen from a suitcase in the overhead cabin, according to multiple media reports.

A Delta flight was recently forced to turn around an hour into the journey after passengers got covered in maggots which had fallen from a suitcase in the overhead cabin, according to multiple media reports. What we know about the incident The incident took place on a Delta flight, on Tuesday (Feb 13), which was headed for Detroit, Michigan from the Dutch capital city of Amsterdam. “Really lovely to be 2 hours into an 8 hour @Delta to Amsterdam and find out there is rotten fish and maggots hitching a ride with us,” one passenger named Kelce said in a now deleted social media post. The plane, Delta Flight DL133, turned around and landed back at the Schiphol Airport, according to reports. Also Read | US: Surgical robot kills cancer patient after burning hole in internal organs, husband seeks justice Once the plane landed the passengers were asked to deboard so that the flight could be deep cleaned. According to reports, a suitcase containing fish which had apparently broken open mid-air is believed to be the culprit and was later destroyed. ‘Unfortunate flight’ In an interview with the Daily Mail, Kelce, one of the passengers, said that the Delta staff was able to identify the owner of the rotting suitcase and detained them on the plane after the rest of the travellers had left. The passengers were compensated with 8,000 air miles, a hotel room, and a $30 meal ticket if they were delayed overnight, Kelce told the Daily Mail. A passenger identified as Philip Schotte claimed that he was sitting next to a woman who was showered with “at least a dozen maggots,” according to a report by the British newspaper Metro. “I don’t know what was going through my mind, I was trying to process it. Disgusted is one thing of course,” Schotte said as quoted by Metro. Meanwhile, other passengers took to Reddit to recall the horror. “So I was on this unfortunate flight lol,” wrote one user who was allegedly on the flight. “My family and I were in the row directly in front of the maggots. The lady right behind us told the flight attendants the maggots were falling on her head.” Also Read | Drug bust takes dramatic turn after Spanish police rescue alleged smuggler’s crew taken hostage “Ugh. I turned around and they were wiggling around on the seat. They moved us further in front though,” the user added. Delta responds “We apologise to the customers of Flight 133 AMS-DTW as their trip was interrupted due to an improperly packed carry-on bag,” Delta said in a statement to The Independent regarding the maggot incident. It added, “The aircraft returned to the gate and passengers were placed on the next available flight. The aircraft was removed from service for cleaning.” (With inputs from agencies)

Flight forced to turn back after passengers ‘showered’ with maggots mid-air

Detroit Police released a suspect taken into custody in connection with the murder of synagogue leader Samantha Woll. Cops arrested the man on Tuesday (Nov 7) in Kalamazoo, Michigan, the Detroit Free Press reported.

Detroit Police released a suspect taken into custody in connection with the murder of synagogue leader Samantha Woll. Cops arrested the man on Tuesday (Nov 7) in Kalamazoo, Michigan, the Detroit Free Press reported. However, after 72 hours in custody, they released the suspect, a lawyer named Allison Kriger told AP. They have also not filed any charges against him. According to the reports, the suspect was close to Samantha. He even attended her funeral after her murder. After the suspect's arrest, the police refused to name the suspect, saying they would release additional information "at the appropriate time." Detroit Police Chief James White told the New York Post, "While this is an encouraging development in our desire to bring closure for Ms. Woll’s family, it does not represent the conclusion of our work in this case." He added, "The investigation details will remain confidential to ensure the integrity of steps that remain." ALSO READ | Cost pressures ease as Japan's wholesale inflation takes a dive Murder of Samantha Woll Samantha Woll, 40, was the president of Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue. On Saturday (Oct 21), Samantha was found dead outside her Detroit home a few hours after returning from the wedding. However, authorities believe the attack happened inside the house. Samantha lived at Lafayette Park, a neighbourhood east of downtown, in Detroit, Michigan. The police found her dead at her house after they responded to a 911 call about a person who was unresponsive early in the morning. They were informed that she attended a wedding the night before her murder and left around 12:30 am GMT. The investigators believe Samantha was stabbed inside the house, following which she stumbled outside. She had also worked for Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin. Woll also participated in the re-election campaign of Attorney General Dana Nessel. ALSO READ | 'Courageous young man': Las Vegas teen succumbs to injuries days after being beaten by gang of 15 bullies The stabbing of Samantha Woll has sparked speculation that it might be a result of enmity over the Israel-Hamas war. However, Chief James White stated that there was no evidence that Samantha's murder was a hate crime. "We believe that this particular incident was not motivated by antisemitism and that this suspect acted alone," he told reporters at a press conference held two days after the murder. At the time, investigators said the probe was in the initial stage, and they did not have a suspect to name. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Samantha Woll Murder: Police releases suspect after 72 hours of arrest without filing charges

Police in the US city of Detroit said that they had arrested a suspect on Wednesday (Nov 8) in the case of the fatal stabbing of a Detroit synagogue leader Samantha Woll.&nbsp;

Woll's stabbing had created a wave of worry among the Jews in the US amid growing pro-Palestinian sentiment across the nation in the wake of Israeli bombardment of Gaza which followed the Hamas attack of October 7.&nbsp;

"As part of my continuing commitment to transparency in this matter, I am sharing with the community that a suspect has been taken into custody for the murder of Samantha Woll," Detroit Police chief James E. White wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;US: Gaza siege triggers rise in anti-Semitism; Cornell University says, 'we are shocked' | WION

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"While this is an encouraging development in our desire to bring closure for Ms. Woll’s family, it does not represent the conclusion of our work in this case... The details of the investigation will remain confidential at this time to ensure the integrity of the important steps that remain... Investigators will be continuing their work with the Wayne County Prosecutors Office until the conclusion of this investigation," Woll was quoted as saying on X.

Samantha Woll, 40, was president of Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue in Detroit. She was found dead outside her Detroit home October 21, hours after returning from a wedding, investigators said.

Officers reportedly responded to a 911 call about someone "lying on the ground unresponsive" and found her body outside the home.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/american-billionaire-bill-ackman-urges-suspensions-at-harvard-to-tackle-antisemitism-on-campus-655894">Bill Ackman writes to Harvard president, calls out antisemitism on campus</a>

Despite her prominent position in the Jewish community, police claims that no evidence had surfaced to suggest that the killing was motivated by antisemitism

The police did not announce any charges in the case either.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-islamophobia-antisemitism-xenophobia-the-many-faces-of-hate-in-the-us-656914">Explained | Islamophobia, antisemitism, Xenophobia: The many faces of hate in the US</a>

The police maintains that Woll’s death does not appear to be a result of antisemitism in the wake of the Israel-Hamas war.&nbsp;

About 1,000 people attended Woll’s funeral on October 22, according to the Associated Pres.

She had worked for US House Representative Elissa Slotkin and on the political campaign of Attorney Dana Nessel, both Democrats.

(With inputs from agencies)

Police in the US city of Detroit said that they had arrested a suspect on Wednesday (Nov 8) in the case of the fatal stabbing of a Detroit synagogue leader Samantha Woll.

Police in the US city of Detroit said that they had arrested a suspect on Wednesday (Nov 8) in the case of the fatal stabbing of a Detroit synagogue leader Samantha Woll. Woll's stabbing had created a wave of worry among the Jews in the US amid growing pro-Palestinian sentiment across the nation in the wake of Israeli bombardment of Gaza which followed the Hamas attack of October 7. "As part of my continuing commitment to transparency in this matter, I am sharing with the community that a suspect has been taken into custody for the murder of Samantha Woll," Detroit Police chief James E. White wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter. Also watch | US: Gaza siege triggers rise in anti-Semitism; Cornell University says, 'we are shocked' | WION × "While this is an encouraging development in our desire to bring closure for Ms. Woll’s family, it does not represent the conclusion of our work in this case... The details of the investigation will remain confidential at this time to ensure the integrity of the important steps that remain... Investigators will be continuing their work with the Wayne County Prosecutors Office until the conclusion of this investigation," Woll was quoted as saying on X. Samantha Woll, 40, was president of Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue in Detroit. She was found dead outside her Detroit home October 21, hours after returning from a wedding, investigators said. Officers reportedly responded to a 911 call about someone "lying on the ground unresponsive" and found her body outside the home. Also read | Bill Ackman writes to Harvard president, calls out antisemitism on campus Despite her prominent position in the Jewish community, police claims that no evidence had surfaced to suggest that the killing was motivated by antisemitism The police did not announce any charges in the case either. Also read | Explained | Islamophobia, antisemitism, Xenophobia: The many faces of hate in the US The police maintains that Woll’s death does not appear to be a result of antisemitism in the wake of the Israel-Hamas war. About 1,000 people attended Woll’s funeral on October 22, according to the Associated Pres. She had worked for US House Representative Elissa Slotkin and on the political campaign of Attorney Dana Nessel, both Democrats. (With inputs from agencies)

Samantha Woll murder case: Suspect held, US police say no antisemitism angle

A 32-year-old pregnant woman from the US city of Detroit has sued the city and a police officer for wrongfully arresting her for a crime she did not even commit.

The African American woman has claimed that the city’s unreliable facial recognition technology led to her arrest as a robbery and carjacking suspect while she was eight months pregnant.

Porcha Woodruff filed a lawsuit on Thursday (Aug 3) in US District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan saying that the entire episode has left her scared, humiliated and her pregnancy jeopardised. She is seeking $25 million in damages.

She was arrested from her home in February by six police officers when she was readying her two young children—ages 6 and 12—for school.

<h2>Arrested from home</h2>

The lawsuit accuses police of using "unreliable facial recognition" software to connect Woodruff to the crime.&nbsp;

“Are you kidding, carjacking? Do you see that I am eight months pregnant?” she&nbsp;told one of the arresting officers, according to the lawsuit.

According to Woodruff, she was taken to a detention centre and kept there for 11 hours. The armed robbery had taken place several weeks earlier.

“This case highlights the significant flaws associated with using facial recognition technology to identify criminal suspects,”&nbsp;her lawsuit states.

“Despite its potential, law enforcement’s reliance on facial recognition has led to wrongful arrests, causing humiliation, embarrassment, and physical injury, as evident in this particular incident.”

<h2>Third incident&nbsp;</h2>

The American Civil Liberties Union of Michigan, an NGO, has now called on the Detroit Police Department to junk the use of facial recognition technology.

It claimed that it is the third known allegation of a wrongful arrest by Detroit police based on the technology.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/newly-discovered-skull-in-china-baffles-scientists-is-it-a-new-lineage-of-humans-623180">Newly-discovered skull in China baffles scientists. Is it yet another lineage of humans?</a>

In 2021, Robert Williams, a Black man, sued Detroit police after he was arrested when facial recognition technology mistakenly identified him as a suspected shoplifter.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/too-drunk-to-drive-back-home-italian-government-will-offer-a-free-taxi-ride-623202">Too drunk to drive back home? Italian government will offer a free taxi ride</a>

Another Black man, Michael Oliver, sued the city the same year claiming that his false arrest because of the technology in 2019 led him to lose his job.

Meanwhile, Detroit Police Chief James E White in a statement said that the allegations contained in the lawsuit are “deeply concerning” and the department is “taking this matter very seriously.” Additional investigation is needed, White said.

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A 32-year-old pregnant woman from the US city of Detroit has sued the city and a police officer for wrongfully arresting her for a crime she did not even commit.

A 32-year-old pregnant woman from the US city of Detroit has sued the city and a police officer for wrongfully arresting her for a crime she did not even commit. The African American woman has claimed that the city’s unreliable facial recognition technology led to her arrest as a robbery and carjacking suspect while she was eight months pregnant. Porcha Woodruff filed a lawsuit on Thursday (Aug 3) in US District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan saying that the entire episode has left her scared, humiliated and her pregnancy jeopardised. She is seeking $25 million in damages. She was arrested from her home in February by six police officers when she was readying her two young children—ages 6 and 12—for school. Arrested from home The lawsuit accuses police of using "unreliable facial recognition" software to connect Woodruff to the crime. “Are you kidding, carjacking? Do you see that I am eight months pregnant?” she told one of the arresting officers, according to the lawsuit. According to Woodruff, she was taken to a detention centre and kept there for 11 hours. The armed robbery had taken place several weeks earlier. “This case highlights the significant flaws associated with using facial recognition technology to identify criminal suspects,” her lawsuit states. “Despite its potential, law enforcement’s reliance on facial recognition has led to wrongful arrests, causing humiliation, embarrassment, and physical injury, as evident in this particular incident.” Third incident The American Civil Liberties Union of Michigan, an NGO, has now called on the Detroit Police Department to junk the use of facial recognition technology. It claimed that it is the third known allegation of a wrongful arrest by Detroit police based on the technology. Also read | Newly-discovered skull in China baffles scientists. Is it yet another lineage of humans? In 2021, Robert Williams, a Black man, sued Detroit police after he was arrested when facial recognition technology mistakenly identified him as a suspected shoplifter. Also read | Too drunk to drive back home? Italian government will offer a free taxi ride Another Black man, Michael Oliver, sued the city the same year claiming that his false arrest because of the technology in 2019 led him to lose his job. Meanwhile, Detroit Police Chief James E White in a statement said that the allegations contained in the lawsuit are “deeply concerning” and the department is “taking this matter very seriously.” Additional investigation is needed, White said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Pregnant woman sues Detroit city after 'unreliable' facial recognition leads to false arrest

Tony Finau chases his fifth PGA Tour triumph in the past year this week at Detroit, where he will finally defend a title on the same course where he won it.

The 33-year-old American enters the Rocket Mortgage Classic after wins last July at Detroit Golf Club and the 3M Open, at the Houston Open last October and the Mexico Open two months ago.

"This is actually crazy. This is the first time I'm defending on the same golf course that I won on," Finau said Tuesday. "It's different. I'm kind of experiencing new -- I don't know if you call it nerves or excitement, but it's new. It is really nice to be back."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/belgian-shot-putter-jolien-boumkwo-runs-in-100m-hurdle-to-save-country-from-getting-disqualified-watch-609279">Belgian shot putter Jolien Boumkwo runs in 100m hurdle to save country from getting disqualified - WATCH</a>

World number 14 Finau, who along with ninth-rated US compatriot Max Homa are the top-ranked players in the field, won his first PGA title at the 2016 Puerto Rico Open but did not defend.

He ended a five-year title drought at the 2021 Northern Trust at Liberty National near New York, a tournament played the next year at TPC Southwind near Memphis.

He's trying to soak in the memories and draw some momentum.

"Just nothing but good vibes," Finau said. "It's so nice to be back in Detroit where I have such a great memory to look back on."

Finau has been celebrated this week. Spectators for Tuesday's practice round were given a Finau "bobblehead" souvenir and his name was on a feature sandwich, the Finau Fitu with coconut water.

"It's quite a touch," Finau said. "I've never been a name on a menu, so for them to do something that special is really cool, definitely something I'll always remember. I've got this bobblehead, I've got the menu item, it's quite something."

He has also got a hunger for winning as he seeks a seventh career PGA victory.

"My game is at a point where I believe if I play well I can win any golf tournament," Finau said. "You have to have the skills to back it up. When you do, it becomes like a confidence thing."

Last year, Finau went 67 or lower in all four rounds to finish on 26-under par and win by five strokes.

"This may be a week where you have to go 30-under because of the conditions being so soft, so when you shoot 30-under, you've got to make putts," Finau said. "I'm pretty much calling 30 under this week just because of the conditions."

A storm with winds of 80 mph struck the course Sunday night and toppled trees, damaging a car and a practice putting green, but cleanup work enabled players to practice on schedule.

Others in the field include two-time major winners Justin Thomas and Collin Morikawa and fellow American Keegan Bradley, coming off a victory at the Travelers Championship.

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Tony Finau chases his fifth PGA Tour triumph in the past year this week at Detroit, where he will finally defend a title on the same course where he won it. The 33-year-old American enters the Rocket Mortgage Classic after wins last July at Detroit Golf Club and the 3M Open, at the Houston Open last October and the Mexico Open two months ago.

Tony Finau chases his fifth PGA Tour triumph in the past year this week at Detroit, where he will finally defend a title on the same course where he won it. The 33-year-old American enters the Rocket Mortgage Classic after wins last July at Detroit Golf Club and the 3M Open, at the Houston Open last October and the Mexico Open two months ago. "This is actually crazy. This is the first time I'm defending on the same golf course that I won on," Finau said Tuesday. "It's different. I'm kind of experiencing new -- I don't know if you call it nerves or excitement, but it's new. It is really nice to be back." Also Read: Belgian shot putter Jolien Boumkwo runs in 100m hurdle to save country from getting disqualified - WATCH World number 14 Finau, who along with ninth-rated US compatriot Max Homa are the top-ranked players in the field, won his first PGA title at the 2016 Puerto Rico Open but did not defend. He ended a five-year title drought at the 2021 Northern Trust at Liberty National near New York, a tournament played the next year at TPC Southwind near Memphis. He's trying to soak in the memories and draw some momentum. "Just nothing but good vibes," Finau said. "It's so nice to be back in Detroit where I have such a great memory to look back on." Finau has been celebrated this week. Spectators for Tuesday's practice round were given a Finau "bobblehead" souvenir and his name was on a feature sandwich, the Finau Fitu with coconut water. "It's quite a touch," Finau said. "I've never been a name on a menu, so for them to do something that special is really cool, definitely something I'll always remember. I've got this bobblehead, I've got the menu item, it's quite something." He has also got a hunger for winning as he seeks a seventh career PGA victory. "My game is at a point where I believe if I play well I can win any golf tournament," Finau said. "You have to have the skills to back it up. When you do, it becomes like a confidence thing." Last year, Finau went 67 or lower in all four rounds to finish on 26-under par and win by five strokes. "This may be a week where you have to go 30-under because of the conditions being so soft, so when you shoot 30-under, you've got to make putts," Finau said. "I'm pretty much calling 30 under this week just because of the conditions." A storm with winds of 80 mph struck the course Sunday night and toppled trees, damaging a car and a practice putting green, but cleanup work enabled players to practice on schedule. Others in the field include two-time major winners Justin Thomas and Collin Morikawa and fellow American Keegan Bradley, coming off a victory at the Travelers Championship. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Golf: Tony Finau defends at Detroit seeking fifth PGA win in a year

In Pics | Top 10 cities with the worst air quality index

US President Joe Biden visited the Detroit auto show where he announced the approval of first $900 million in US funding to build electric vehicles charging stations in 35 states in the country, part of a $1 trillion infrastructure law approved last November.

Joe Biden touts electric vehicles at Detroit auto show

The Detroit auto show is returning this week after a two-year gap due to the Covid-19 pandemic. It starts today and will go on until September 25. However, lower attendance is expected at this year's auto show.

World Business Watch: Detroit auto show is back after 2-year gap due to Covid-19 pandemic

At the Detroit Auto Show on Wednesday, President Joe Biden pressed the throttle pedal of a powerful V-8 sports vehicle.

Watch: US President Joe Biden revs up V-8 Corvette Z06 at Detroit Auto Show

Police in the US city of&nbsp;Detroit&nbsp;launched a manhunt Sunday for a suspect believed to have shot four people at "random", killing three of them, authorities said.

The Midwestern city's police chief, James White, told media that the first three victims -- two women and a man -- were found shot multiple times in separate locations around the city in the early hours of the morning.

A fourth man spotted the suspect peering into car windows and told him to stop, White said. The suspect shot him once.

Three of the victims died and one survived, police told local media. Photographs of the suspect have been released to the public as authorities urged anyone who recognized him to call the police.

The shootings appear "to be very random," White told a press conference.

"One was waiting on a bus, one was walking his dog, and one was just on the street," he said.

Detroit&nbsp;mayor Mike Duggan told reporters that agents from "multiple agencies" were "scouring several square miles right now, waiting for the individual to resurface."

"This individual has already shot four people today," he said, appealing for anyone who might know the suspect to come forward.&nbsp;

The shootings were not the only incident of deadly gun violence in the United States on Sunday.

Authorities in the Texan city of Houston said that three people were shot dead there by a gunman who first set fire to their home.

"This suspect unfortunately, and very sadly, and very evilly, set fire to several residences, laid wait for those residents to come out, and fired upon them," Houston police chief Troy Finner told another press conference.

Firefighters tackling the blaze also had to take cover from the gunman, he said.&nbsp;

Police then arrived and shot the man dead.&nbsp;

The gunman had recently been told he would be evicted, Finner said, adding that "may have been a trigger point" for him, but that police were investigating.

Meanwhile, an NFL football player was shot in the capital Washington, but is in stable condition, the Washington Post newspaper reported.

Brian Robinson Jr, a running back with the Washington Commanders, was shot twice during a possible carjacking, the Post reported, citing police.

He was taken to hospital and his injuries were not believed to be life-threatening, the newspaper said.

The United States is regularly rocked by shootings, with lawmakers reluctant to pass gun control legislation despite it being popular with most Americans.

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Police in the US city of Detroit launched a manhunt Sunday for a suspect believed to have shot four people at "random", killing three of them, authorities said. The Midwestern city's police chief, James White, told media that the first three victims -- two women and a man -- were found shot multiple times in separate locations around the city in the early hours of the morning.

Police in the US city of Detroit launched a manhunt Sunday for a suspect believed to have shot four people at "random", killing three of them, authorities said. The Midwestern city's police chief, James White, told media that the first three victims -- two women and a man -- were found shot multiple times in separate locations around the city in the early hours of the morning. A fourth man spotted the suspect peering into car windows and told him to stop, White said. The suspect shot him once. Three of the victims died and one survived, police told local media. Photographs of the suspect have been released to the public as authorities urged anyone who recognized him to call the police. The shootings appear "to be very random," White told a press conference. "One was waiting on a bus, one was walking his dog, and one was just on the street," he said. Detroit mayor Mike Duggan told reporters that agents from "multiple agencies" were "scouring several square miles right now, waiting for the individual to resurface." "This individual has already shot four people today," he said, appealing for anyone who might know the suspect to come forward. The shootings were not the only incident of deadly gun violence in the United States on Sunday. Authorities in the Texan city of Houston said that three people were shot dead there by a gunman who first set fire to their home. "This suspect unfortunately, and very sadly, and very evilly, set fire to several residences, laid wait for those residents to come out, and fired upon them," Houston police chief Troy Finner told another press conference. Firefighters tackling the blaze also had to take cover from the gunman, he said. Police then arrived and shot the man dead. The gunman had recently been told he would be evicted, Finner said, adding that "may have been a trigger point" for him, but that police were investigating. Meanwhile, an NFL football player was shot in the capital Washington, but is in stable condition, the Washington Post newspaper reported. Brian Robinson Jr, a running back with the Washington Commanders, was shot twice during a possible carjacking, the Post reported, citing police. He was taken to hospital and his injuries were not believed to be life-threatening, the newspaper said. The United States is regularly rocked by shootings, with lawmakers reluctant to pass gun control legislation despite it being popular with most Americans. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US manhunt after gunman shoots 3 people dead at 'random'

Automakers in North America plan to build more big pickups and sport utility vehicles than electric vehicles. The popularity of Detroit's big trucks is a challenge both to the industry and efforts by lawmakers and regulators to reduce emissions of carbon dioxide and other exhaust gas pollutants from combustion engines.

Popularity of Detroit's trucks poses challenge to efforts of lawmakers to reduce carbon emissions

The COVID-19 peak during the last two months has been a tough time for those working at major automobile manufacturing plants in the Southern Indian city of Chennai. Known as the ‘Detroit of India’, Chennai and its outskirts are home to several automobile manufacturing and allied industries. Major global players such as Ford, Hyundai, Renault-Nissan have had to shut factories temporarily and cut down production by a significant percentage.&nbsp;

During the first COVID-19 wave (2020), the Central government had enforced a pan-India lockdown. Back then, automobile industries were shut down for months together, following which they resumed as curbs were gradually relaxed. This meant that work happened in a staggered fashion and fewer employees worked at the factories.&nbsp;

In the second wave, however, as per orders of the Tamil Nadu government, automobile industries were permitted to work, by categorising them under Continuous Process industries.

This meant they were permitted to function even during the total Lockdown when cases were at their peak. Major automakers shut their plants for a few days, but again resumed production, at a considerably lesser rate.&nbsp;

Employees Union representatives of various automakers that WION spoke to outlined the impact of working amid the pandemic.&nbsp;

According to Muthukumar, President, Hyundai India Employees Union, nearly 750 persons turned positive in the 2400 strong Hyundai factory near Irungattukottai, leading to 10 deaths. After this explosion of cases, workers had to be sent on leave for a while and then they followed a system of three days work and three days off. The plant which rolls out nearly 1400 cars in a day (3 shifts), now produces about 800 cars in (2 shifts).

For American major Ford, which operates a plant in Maraimalai Nagar, work had already been slightly hit owing to the global silicon chip shortage. About 250 COVID-19 cases and three deaths were reported among 3,000 of its employees. This meant that the plant was fully shut a few times, each for over a week, during the ongoing lockdown. According to a leader of the Chennai Ford Employees Union, their plant which produces about 780 cars per day (across 3 shifts) is now rolling out around one-third of that number, while working only a single shift. He adds that some of their component manufacturers too have been working amid the lockdown, to cater to the carmakers’ needs.

At the Renault-Nissan factory, the collaboration between the French and Japanese carmakers, 700 out of nearly 8000 workers were infected. This resulted in five deaths. After the employees approached the Madras High Court, it was decided to operate the plant at 75% capacity. Moorthy, General Secretary, Renault Nissan India Workers Union said that amid the current lockdown, their plant was making about 600 cars per day, as opposed to the usual 860 units.&nbsp;

Only a small percentage of staff at these factories have been vaccinated in company-organized camps. 
 
The rest are yet to get their shots, owing to prevailing COVID-19 vaccine shortage in Tamil Nadu and also partly owing to vaccine hesitancy.

Factories in Chennai, have been churning out cars meant for the local market and for export. This has been going on at a time when Tamil Nadu is witnessing the highest number of COVID-19 cases in the country. Tamil Nadu which witnessed nearly 7000 daily cases during the peak of the first wave, saw up to 36,000 daily cases in the second wave. Chennai city alone witnessed nearly 7,000 daily cases as per the government figures. Currently, the daily cases are around 25,000, yet they are the highest numbers among all states in India.&nbsp;

In stark contrast, large automobile factories of these global automakers not operate during the lockdowns in their respective home countries.

They were all shut for months on end. While uncertainty looms over whether Tamil Nadu’s existing lockdown (until June 7th) would be further extended, it is quite clear that the auto plants will continue to roll out vehicles.

However, the workers say that irrespective of the precautions taken, their nature of work does not help in maintaining six feet physical distance. The workers maintain that at least two persons need to be in close proximity during the assembly of a vehicle. They strongly feel that, in the interest of their and their families lives, factories need to be shut until the COVID-19 second wave subsides significantly.

The COVID-19 peak during the last two months has been a tough time for those working at major automobile manufacturing plants in the Southern Indian city of Chennai.

The COVID-19 peak during the last two months has been a tough time for those working at major automobile manufacturing plants in the Southern Indian city of Chennai. Known as the ‘Detroit of India’, Chennai and its outskirts are home to several automobile manufacturing and allied industries. Major global players such as Ford, Hyundai, Renault-Nissan have had to shut factories temporarily and cut down production by a significant percentage. During the first COVID-19 wave (2020), the Central government had enforced a pan-India lockdown. Back then, automobile industries were shut down for months together, following which they resumed as curbs were gradually relaxed. This meant that work happened in a staggered fashion and fewer employees worked at the factories. In the second wave, however, as per orders of the Tamil Nadu government, automobile industries were permitted to work, by categorising them under Continuous Process industries. This meant they were permitted to function even during the total Lockdown when cases were at their peak. Major automakers shut their plants for a few days, but again resumed production, at a considerably lesser rate. Employees Union representatives of various automakers that WION spoke to outlined the impact of working amid the pandemic. According to Muthukumar, President, Hyundai India Employees Union, nearly 750 persons turned positive in the 2400 strong Hyundai factory near Irungattukottai, leading to 10 deaths. After this explosion of cases, workers had to be sent on leave for a while and then they followed a system of three days work and three days off. The plant which rolls out nearly 1400 cars in a day (3 shifts), now produces about 800 cars in (2 shifts). For American major Ford, which operates a plant in Maraimalai Nagar, work had already been slightly hit owing to the global silicon chip shortage. About 250 COVID-19 cases and three deaths were reported among 3,000 of its employees. This meant that the plant was fully shut a few times, each for over a week, during the ongoing lockdown. According to a leader of the Chennai Ford Employees Union, their plant which produces about 780 cars per day (across 3 shifts) is now rolling out around one-third of that number, while working only a single shift. He adds that some of their component manufacturers too have been working amid the lockdown, to cater to the carmakers’ needs. At the Renault-Nissan factory, the collaboration between the French and Japanese carmakers, 700 out of nearly 8000 workers were infected. This resulted in five deaths. After the employees approached the Madras High Court, it was decided to operate the plant at 75% capacity. Moorthy, General Secretary, Renault Nissan India Workers Union said that amid the current lockdown, their plant was making about 600 cars per day, as opposed to the usual 860 units. Only a small percentage of staff at these factories have been vaccinated in company-organized camps. The rest are yet to get their shots, owing to prevailing COVID-19 vaccine shortage in Tamil Nadu and also partly owing to vaccine hesitancy. Factories in Chennai, have been churning out cars meant for the local market and for export. This has been going on at a time when Tamil Nadu is witnessing the highest number of COVID-19 cases in the country. Tamil Nadu which witnessed nearly 7000 daily cases during the peak of the first wave, saw up to 36,000 daily cases in the second wave. Chennai city alone witnessed nearly 7,000 daily cases as per the government figures. Currently, the daily cases are around 25,000, yet they are the highest numbers among all states in India. In stark contrast, large automobile factories of these global automakers not operate during the lockdowns in their respective home countries. They were all shut for months on end. While uncertainty looms over whether Tamil Nadu’s existing lockdown (until June 7th) would be further extended, it is quite clear that the auto plants will continue to roll out vehicles. However, the workers say that irrespective of the precautions taken, their nature of work does not help in maintaining six feet physical distance. The workers maintain that at least two persons need to be in close proximity during the assembly of a vehicle. They strongly feel that, in the interest of their and their families lives, factories need to be shut until the COVID-19 second wave subsides significantly.

Chennai: India’s Detroit rolls out cars despite COVID-19 risk and ongoing lockdown 

Severe wind and rain in the northeastern United States left thousands without power on Monday and into early Tuesday, even as a record-breaking heatwave ebbed.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/end-in-sight-for-us-heat-wave-that-set-temperature-records-237573">heatwave blanketing about a third of the US population</a> brought thunderstorms along with cooling rain when it burst on Monday, the National Weather Service said.

The hardest-hit area was New Jersey, with about 300,000 customers still without power early on Tuesday, tracking site PowerOutage.us showed.

"There are numerous reports of wind damage from downed trees hitting powerlines and transformers, through New Jersey and southern New York," said Bob Oravec of the National Weather Service's Weather Prediction Center in Maryland.

Some winds gusted as high as 80 mph (129 kph), he added.

"The good news is that the heatwave is over," Oravec said. "It's cooled down. Today it'll be about 76 degrees Fahrenheit (24.4°C) in New York City and roughly in the high 70s to low 80s through New Jersey and the northeast."

Many New Yorkers experienced their second successive weekend of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nearly-150-million-people-sweltering-through-deadly-us-heatwave-237355">blackouts</a> after a July 13 outage left more than 73,000 homes and businesses without power for about three hours.

About 18,000 customers were without power in New York City, media said, for a total of 22,000 in the metro area by early Tuesday.

Some residents have been without power since Sunday night when Con Edison shut off the supply to about 50,000 customers in New York City and Westchester to avert strain on the system, even as temperatures soared to 100 degrees Fahrenheit (37.8°C).&nbsp;

The shutdown was necessary for repairs by Con Edison to prevent a bigger outage, Mayor Bill de Blasio said on Twitter at the time, tasking city personnel to take generators to nursing homes and open cooling centres for residents.

On Monday, he criticized Con Edison for not taking preventive measures before the latest outrage, telling a news conference the forecast of a heatwave meant the situation had been predictable, and therefore preventable.

In Michigan, about 150,000 homes and businesses were still without power early on Tuesday after weekend thunderstorms knocked out power in much of the metro Detroit area.

Temperatures in the Detroit area are forecast at about 78 degrees Fahrenheit (25.6°C).

On Saturday, at least half-a-dozen locations saw one-day temperature records, including a high of 99 F (37.2°C) at New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport and a high of 97 F (36.1°C) at Detroit Metropolitan Airport.

Severe wind and rain in the northeastern United States left thousands without power on Monday and into early Tuesday, even as a record-breaking heatwave ebbed. The heatwave blanketing about a third of the US population brought thunderstorms along with cooling rain when it burst on Monday, the National Weather Service said.

Severe wind and rain in the northeastern United States left thousands without power on Monday and into early Tuesday, even as a record-breaking heatwave ebbed. The heatwave blanketing about a third of the US population brought thunderstorms along with cooling rain when it burst on Monday, the National Weather Service said. The hardest-hit area was New Jersey, with about 300,000 customers still without power early on Tuesday, tracking site PowerOutage.us showed. "There are numerous reports of wind damage from downed trees hitting powerlines and transformers, through New Jersey and southern New York," said Bob Oravec of the National Weather Service's Weather Prediction Center in Maryland. Some winds gusted as high as 80 mph (129 kph), he added. "The good news is that the heatwave is over," Oravec said. "It's cooled down. Today it'll be about 76 degrees Fahrenheit (24.4°C) in New York City and roughly in the high 70s to low 80s through New Jersey and the northeast." Many New Yorkers experienced their second successive weekend of blackouts after a July 13 outage left more than 73,000 homes and businesses without power for about three hours. About 18,000 customers were without power in New York City, media said, for a total of 22,000 in the metro area by early Tuesday. Some residents have been without power since Sunday night when Con Edison shut off the supply to about 50,000 customers in New York City and Westchester to avert strain on the system, even as temperatures soared to 100 degrees Fahrenheit (37.8°C). The shutdown was necessary for repairs by Con Edison to prevent a bigger outage, Mayor Bill de Blasio said on Twitter at the time, tasking city personnel to take generators to nursing homes and open cooling centres for residents. On Monday, he criticized Con Edison for not taking preventive measures before the latest outrage, telling a news conference the forecast of a heatwave meant the situation had been predictable, and therefore preventable. In Michigan, about 150,000 homes and businesses were still without power early on Tuesday after weekend thunderstorms knocked out power in much of the metro Detroit area. Temperatures in the Detroit area are forecast at about 78 degrees Fahrenheit (25.6°C). On Saturday, at least half-a-dozen locations saw one-day temperature records, including a high of 99 F (37.2°C) at New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport and a high of 97 F (36.1°C) at Detroit Metropolitan Airport.

As heat wave breaks across US northeast, thousands left without power

The remains of more than 60 infants and fetuses were found stashed in a Detroit funeral home, police said on Friday, calling the discovery "deeply disturbing."

The incident comes about a week after the badly decomposed bodies of 11 babies were found hidden in a false ceiling at a different funeral home in the Michigan city.&nbsp;

No connection between the two cases has yet been established, Detroit's police chief said. He added city, state and federal investigators were looking to form a task force to investigate the improper storage of human remains.

Unrefrigerated boxed containing about 36 sets of remains were recovered from the Perry Funeral Home along with another 27 sets of remains in a freezer, police said.

"This is deeply disturbing," Detroit Police Chief James Craig told reporters on Friday. "I have never seen anything like this in my 41-1/2 years (on the force), ever."

Investigators are working to establish ages and identities.

An official with Perry Funeral Home, which offers burial and cremation services, declined to comment on the incident.

The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs has revoked the funeral home's license and shut the facility for what it said was "negligence and an improper storage of bodies," according to local TV broadcaster WXYZ.

Police have also launched an investigation into the now defunct Cantrell Funeral Home, where the remains of the 11 babies were uncovered last week after authorities received an anonymous letter leading them to the remains.

Its former operators have not commented to media.

In April, state regulators found "deplorable, unsanitary conditions" at the same premises, including embalmed bodies in an unrefrigerated garage and other badly decomposed remains, the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs said in a statement at the time.

The funeral home was also accused of several licensing and financial violations, the agency said.

The remains of more than 60 infants and fetuses were found stashed in a Detroit funeral home, police said on Friday, calling the discovery "deeply disturbing." The incident comes about a week after the badly decomposed bodies of 11 babies were found hidden in a false ceiling at a different funeral home in the Michigan city.

The remains of more than 60 infants and fetuses were found stashed in a Detroit funeral home, police said on Friday, calling the discovery "deeply disturbing." The incident comes about a week after the badly decomposed bodies of 11 babies were found hidden in a false ceiling at a different funeral home in the Michigan city. No connection between the two cases has yet been established, Detroit's police chief said. He added city, state and federal investigators were looking to form a task force to investigate the improper storage of human remains. Unrefrigerated boxed containing about 36 sets of remains were recovered from the Perry Funeral Home along with another 27 sets of remains in a freezer, police said. "This is deeply disturbing," Detroit Police Chief James Craig told reporters on Friday. "I have never seen anything like this in my 41-1/2 years (on the force), ever." Investigators are working to establish ages and identities. An official with Perry Funeral Home, which offers burial and cremation services, declined to comment on the incident. The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs has revoked the funeral home's license and shut the facility for what it said was "negligence and an improper storage of bodies," according to local TV broadcaster WXYZ. Police have also launched an investigation into the now defunct Cantrell Funeral Home, where the remains of the 11 babies were uncovered last week after authorities received an anonymous letter leading them to the remains. Its former operators have not commented to media. In April, state regulators found "deplorable, unsanitary conditions" at the same premises, including embalmed bodies in an unrefrigerated garage and other badly decomposed remains, the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs said in a statement at the time. The funeral home was also accused of several licensing and financial violations, the agency said.

Remains of more than 60 babies, fetuses found stashed in Detroit funeral home

Facebook, on Thursday, removed a video posted on Nation of Islam Minister Louis Farrakhan’s account in which he was seen comparing Jews to termites, reports said.&nbsp;

The social media hub removed the video due to a violation of Terms of Service but it was still posted on Twitter and has received over 2 million views.&nbsp;

Farrakhan, the leader of the Nation of Islam, tweeted a video of himself giving a speech on Sunday in Detroit to mark the 23rd anniversary of the Million Man March.

Farrakhan had posted the video to his 960,000 followers on Facebook with the following caption: “To members of the Jewish Community that don’t like me. Thank you very much for putting my name all over the planet. Because of your fear of what we represent, I can go anywhere in the world and they’ve heard of Farrakhan. Thank you very much.&nbsp;

In the video, Farrakhan claims that he is not an anti-Semite, as some critics contend. Rather, he says that he is “anti-termite.”

“So when they talk about Farrakhan, call me a hater, call me anti-Semite. Stop it. I’m anti-Termite. I don’t know nothing about hating somebody because of their religious preference,” Farrakhan claimed in the video.

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I'm not an anti-Semite. I’m anti-Termite. <a href="https://t.co/L5dPQcnVg4">pic.twitter.com/L5dPQcnVg4</a>
— MINISTER FARRAKHAN (@LouisFarrakhan) <a href="https://twitter.com/LouisFarrakhan/status/1052304476923719680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Farrakhan’s Facebook account received a “strike” and has not been suspended.

Facebook, on Thursday, removed a video posted on Nation of Islam Minister Louis Farrakhan’s account in which he was seen comparing Jews to termites, reports said.

Facebook, on Thursday, removed a video posted on Nation of Islam Minister Louis Farrakhan’s account in which he was seen comparing Jews to termites, reports said. The social media hub removed the video due to a violation of Terms of Service but it was still posted on Twitter and has received over 2 million views. Farrakhan, the leader of the Nation of Islam, tweeted a video of himself giving a speech on Sunday in Detroit to mark the 23rd anniversary of the Million Man March. Farrakhan had posted the video to his 960,000 followers on Facebook with the following caption: “To members of the Jewish Community that don’t like me. Thank you very much for putting my name all over the planet. Because of your fear of what we represent, I can go anywhere in the world and they’ve heard of Farrakhan. Thank you very much. In the video, Farrakhan claims that he is not an anti-Semite, as some critics contend. Rather, he says that he is “anti-termite.” “So when they talk about Farrakhan, call me a hater, call me anti-Semite. Stop it. I’m anti-Termite. I don’t know nothing about hating somebody because of their religious preference,” Farrakhan claimed in the video. I'm not an anti-Semite. I’m anti-Termite. pic.twitter.com/L5dPQcnVg4 — MINISTER FARRAKHAN (@LouisFarrakhan) October 16, 2018 × Farrakhan’s Facebook account received a “strike” and has not been suspended.

Watch: Facebook removes video of Farrakhan comparing Jews to 'termites'

The bodies of 11 babies were found hidden at a former funeral home in Detroit on Friday after authorities received an anonymous letter leading them to the remains, police said.

Police are investigating after authorities found nine badly decomposed bodies inside a box and two inside a casket, all hidden in a false ceiling at the former Cantrell Funeral Home, Detroit police Lieutenant Brian Bowser told reporters.

"We have to find out what happened and why it happened," he said, adding that police were trying to contact Raymond Cantrell, the former owner of the funeral home.

Reuters could not immediately reach Cantrell.

Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs went to the property on the city's east side on Friday afternoon after receiving an anonymous letter describing the existence and location of the remains, Bowser said.

Authorities were identifying the remains and notifying parents, he said. It is unclear how long the remains were hidden. Bowser said some of the babies had apparently been stillborn.

In April, state regulators found "deplorable, unsanitary conditions" at the same premises, including embalmed bodies in an unrefrigerated garage and other badly decomposed remains, the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs said in a statement at the time.

The funeral home was also accused of several licensing and financial violations, the agency said.

The bodies of 11 babies were found hidden at a former funeral home in Detroit on Friday after authorities received an anonymous letter leading them to the remains, police said.

The bodies of 11 babies were found hidden at a former funeral home in Detroit on Friday after authorities received an anonymous letter leading them to the remains, police said. Police are investigating after authorities found nine badly decomposed bodies inside a box and two inside a casket, all hidden in a false ceiling at the former Cantrell Funeral Home, Detroit police Lieutenant Brian Bowser told reporters. "We have to find out what happened and why it happened," he said, adding that police were trying to contact Raymond Cantrell, the former owner of the funeral home. Reuters could not immediately reach Cantrell. Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs went to the property on the city's east side on Friday afternoon after receiving an anonymous letter describing the existence and location of the remains, Bowser said. Authorities were identifying the remains and notifying parents, he said. It is unclear how long the remains were hidden. Bowser said some of the babies had apparently been stillborn. In April, state regulators found "deplorable, unsanitary conditions" at the same premises, including embalmed bodies in an unrefrigerated garage and other badly decomposed remains, the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs said in a statement at the time. The funeral home was also accused of several licensing and financial violations, the agency said.

Bodies of 11 babies found hidden in former funeral home in Detroit: Police

Ten women who work at McDonald's restaurants in Detroit, Chicago, Los Angeles and six other cities have filed sexual harassment complaints in the past few days with the federal government against the company and its franchisees, which they said ignored or retaliated against them for such complaints.

The complaints, filed with the US&nbsp;Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), are the latest effort by the union-backed Fight for $15 to have McDonald's designated a "joint employer" of workers at McDonald's franchises and thereby liable when its franchisees violate labour laws.

The claimants, including a 15-year-old from St. Louis, said in a conference call with journalists that they were ignored, mocked or terminated for reporting the behaviour. The accusations included claims that co-workers or supervisors sexually propositioned, groped or exposed themselves to the women.

"I felt I had no choice but to tolerate it," Kimberley Lawson, 25, who makes $8.75 per hour at McDonald's in Kansas City, Missouri, said on a conference call with reporters.

The restaurant industry, which employs half of the American women at some point in their lives, has one of the country's largest sexual harassment problems because its low-wage and largely female workforce is vulnerable to mistreatment from customers and colleagues.

The complaints against McDonald's Corp&nbsp;and the franchise operators of the restaurants where the women workers are similar to sexual harassment accusations also filed with the EEOC two years ago and land ahead of the company's annual meeting on Thursday.

McDonald's spokeswoman Terri Hickey said the company was dismissed from the 2016 claims because they did not employ the individuals who filed the complaints.

Hickey said that McDonald's has policies that prohibit sexual harassment at the company and at the restaurants it owns and operates, while franchisees are responsible for setting employment policies for their restaurants.

The TIME'S UP Legal Defense Fund, established earlier this year by the National Women's Law Center, is covering legal fees for the women.

The company said in a statement that it takes the accusations seriously and that the franchisees who operate some 90 percent its roughly 14,000 US&nbsp;restaurants "will do the same."

Fight for $15 and TIME'S UP are pressing the world's largest restaurant chain to establish and train employees on a zero-tolerance sexual harassment policy and to create a safe and effective process for receiving and responding to complaints.

If an EEOC review of the cases finds they have merit, the agency would call on the company to engage in informal settlement talks. If that failed, EEOC could sue the company or issue the workers "right to sue" letters.

The US&nbsp;Supreme Court on Monday upheld employers' ability to block workers who signed arbitration agreements from filing class-action lawsuits. Sexual harassment cases are usually not class actions because of the unique facts in each case. If the workers signed arbitration agreements, that could keep individual claims out of court.

Attorneys told reporters on the conference call that they were investigating whether the women had signed arbitration agreements. They said workers in prior cases had not.

The women could find it difficult to hold McDonald's responsible for the actions of its franchisees.

In two earlier labour law cases, federal judges in California have said that McDonald's does not exercise enough control over franchise workers to be considered a joint employer.

Also, McDonald's in April proposed settling a National Labor Relations Board case that allows it to avoid a joint employer ruling without paying any money to franchise workers who claimed they were fired, suspended or had their hours cut for participating in Fight for $15 protests calling for higher wages.

Ten women who work at McDonald's restaurants in Detroit, Chicago, LA and six other cities have filed sexual harassment complaints in the past few days with the federal government against the company and its franchisees

Ten women who work at McDonald's restaurants in Detroit, Chicago, Los Angeles and six other cities have filed sexual harassment complaints in the past few days with the federal government against the company and its franchisees, which they said ignored or retaliated against them for such complaints. The complaints, filed with the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), are the latest effort by the union-backed Fight for $15 to have McDonald's designated a "joint employer" of workers at McDonald's franchises and thereby liable when its franchisees violate labour laws. The claimants, including a 15-year-old from St. Louis, said in a conference call with journalists that they were ignored, mocked or terminated for reporting the behaviour. The accusations included claims that co-workers or supervisors sexually propositioned, groped or exposed themselves to the women. "I felt I had no choice but to tolerate it," Kimberley Lawson, 25, who makes $8.75 per hour at McDonald's in Kansas City, Missouri, said on a conference call with reporters. The restaurant industry, which employs half of the American women at some point in their lives, has one of the country's largest sexual harassment problems because its low-wage and largely female workforce is vulnerable to mistreatment from customers and colleagues. The complaints against McDonald's Corp and the franchise operators of the restaurants where the women workers are similar to sexual harassment accusations also filed with the EEOC two years ago and land ahead of the company's annual meeting on Thursday. McDonald's spokeswoman Terri Hickey said the company was dismissed from the 2016 claims because they did not employ the individuals who filed the complaints. Hickey said that McDonald's has policies that prohibit sexual harassment at the company and at the restaurants it owns and operates, while franchisees are responsible for setting employment policies for their restaurants. The TIME'S UP Legal Defense Fund, established earlier this year by the National Women's Law Center, is covering legal fees for the women. The company said in a statement that it takes the accusations seriously and that the franchisees who operate some 90 percent its roughly 14,000 US restaurants "will do the same." Fight for $15 and TIME'S UP are pressing the world's largest restaurant chain to establish and train employees on a zero-tolerance sexual harassment policy and to create a safe and effective process for receiving and responding to complaints. If an EEOC review of the cases finds they have merit, the agency would call on the company to engage in informal settlement talks. If that failed, EEOC could sue the company or issue the workers "right to sue" letters. The US Supreme Court on Monday upheld employers' ability to block workers who signed arbitration agreements from filing class-action lawsuits. Sexual harassment cases are usually not class actions because of the unique facts in each case. If the workers signed arbitration agreements, that could keep individual claims out of court. Attorneys told reporters on the conference call that they were investigating whether the women had signed arbitration agreements. They said workers in prior cases had not. The women could find it difficult to hold McDonald's responsible for the actions of its franchisees. In two earlier labour law cases, federal judges in California have said that McDonald's does not exercise enough control over franchise workers to be considered a joint employer. Also, McDonald's in April proposed settling a National Labor Relations Board case that allows it to avoid a joint employer ruling without paying any money to franchise workers who claimed they were fired, suspended or had their hours cut for participating in Fight for $15 protests calling for higher wages.

McDonald's hit with new sexual harassment claims

A former Indian American CEO of an IT company based in the US city of Detroit has been indicted for his alleged role in orchestrating a scheme to bribe a city official to obtain benefits, the Department of Justice said today.

According to the 11-count indictment filed in the Eastern District of Michigan, Parimal D Mehta, 54, made multiple cash payments to Charles Dodd, former Director of Detroit&#39;s Office of Departmental Technology Services between 2009 to 2016.

This included two cash bribes hand-delivered by Mehta to Dodd in the restrooms of Detroit-area restaurants in 2016, the DOJ alleged.

Mehta is also alleged to have employed Dodd&#39;s family members at FutureNet and its subsidiaries. Dodd previously pleaded guilty to bribery on September 27, 2016.

The indictment alleges that Mehta paid these bribes to Dodd in exchange for preferential treatment for his company, FutureNet, which received approximately USD 7.5 million from Detroit in 2015 and 2016.

According to the indictment, Mehta and FutureNet benefitted from Dodd&#39;s influence over the administration of city contracts, expenditures under those contracts, and the hiring and selection of contract personnel.

Mehta obtained confidential information about Detroit&#39;s internal budgets for specific technology projects, the indictment alleges.&nbsp;

A former Indian American CEO in Detroit has been indicted for his alleged role in orchestrating a scheme to bribe a city official

A former Indian American CEO of an IT company based in the US city of Detroit has been indicted for his alleged role in orchestrating a scheme to bribe a city official to obtain benefits, the Department of Justice said today. According to the 11-count indictment filed in the Eastern District of Michigan, Parimal D Mehta, 54, made multiple cash payments to Charles Dodd, former Director of Detroit's Office of Departmental Technology Services between 2009 to 2016. This included two cash bribes hand-delivered by Mehta to Dodd in the restrooms of Detroit-area restaurants in 2016, the DOJ alleged. Mehta is also alleged to have employed Dodd's family members at FutureNet and its subsidiaries. Dodd previously pleaded guilty to bribery on September 27, 2016. The indictment alleges that Mehta paid these bribes to Dodd in exchange for preferential treatment for his company, FutureNet, which received approximately USD 7.5 million from Detroit in 2015 and 2016. According to the indictment, Mehta and FutureNet benefitted from Dodd's influence over the administration of city contracts, expenditures under those contracts, and the hiring and selection of contract personnel. Mehta obtained confidential information about Detroit's internal budgets for specific technology projects, the indictment alleges.

Indian-American CEO indicted for bribery

Volkswagen&#39;s core autos division increased vehicle sales to a record 6.23 million cars last year, as rising demand for VW brand models in the Americas and the key Chinese market offset a decline in western Europe.

Although the emissions test-cheating scandal of September 2015 has cost the German group billions of euros in fines and penalties, it does not seem to have caused major damage to the carmaker&#39;s popularity with consumers.

Deliveries rose 4.2 percent in 2017 to 6.23 million Volkswagen (VW) brand cars, the automaker said on Sunday at the Detroit auto show, helped by an expanding line-up of sport-utility vehicles including the all-new Atlas and Tremont models.

The carmaker expects to keep growing volume this year.

&quot;Based on economic forecasts and our plans for new models, there is no reason to expect that 2018 should turn worse than 2017,&quot; VW brand sales chief Juergen Stackmann said on Sunday at the Detroit auto show, declining to be more specific.

Higher deliveries at the mass-market brand, accounting for almost 60 percent of VW group sales, may have helped the Wolfsburg-based company beat Toyota for a second year in the global sales race. VW&#39;s premium divisions, Audi and Porsche, had already posted record 2017 deliveries last week.

Toyota said last month it expected to sell 10.35 million cars worldwide in 2017 across its Toyota, Lexus, Daihatsu and Hino brands, up 2 percent from 2016, and 10.5 million this year. VW is due to announce 2017 deliveries for the group as a whole on Jan. 17.

In China, Volkswagen&#39;s largest market, accounting for about half the core brand&#39;s deliveries, sales rose 5.9 percent last year to 3.18 million cars. In the United States, they were up 5.2 percent to 339,700 cars.

Deliveries dropped 2.5 percent to 1.43 million cars in the higher-margin, but diesel-heavy western European market as customers reacted to a backlash against diesel technology in the wake of Volkswagen&#39;s emissions trickery.

Sales of the VW brand, which is pushing a turnaround plan to revive profits, may continue to outpace rivals, according to industry forecaster IHS Markit.

Deliveries of VW passenger cars and light commercial vehicles could increase 14.6 percent to 7.75 million units by 2025 from 6.76 million last year, IHS data indicated.

That compares with gains of 11.6 percent to 9.65 million at Toyota and 3.7 percent to 5.84 million at Ford.&nbsp;

Deliveries rose 4.2 percent in 2017 to 6.23 million Volkswagen cars, the automaker said on Sunday at the Detroit auto show, helped by an expanding line-up of sport-utility vehicles including the all-new Atlas and Tremont models

Volkswagen's core autos division increased vehicle sales to a record 6.23 million cars last year, as rising demand for VW brand models in the Americas and the key Chinese market offset a decline in western Europe. Although the emissions test-cheating scandal of September 2015 has cost the German group billions of euros in fines and penalties, it does not seem to have caused major damage to the carmaker's popularity with consumers. Deliveries rose 4.2 percent in 2017 to 6.23 million Volkswagen (VW) brand cars, the automaker said on Sunday at the Detroit auto show, helped by an expanding line-up of sport-utility vehicles including the all-new Atlas and Tremont models. The carmaker expects to keep growing volume this year. "Based on economic forecasts and our plans for new models, there is no reason to expect that 2018 should turn worse than 2017," VW brand sales chief Juergen Stackmann said on Sunday at the Detroit auto show, declining to be more specific. Higher deliveries at the mass-market brand, accounting for almost 60 percent of VW group sales, may have helped the Wolfsburg-based company beat Toyota for a second year in the global sales race. VW's premium divisions, Audi and Porsche, had already posted record 2017 deliveries last week. Toyota said last month it expected to sell 10.35 million cars worldwide in 2017 across its Toyota, Lexus, Daihatsu and Hino brands, up 2 percent from 2016, and 10.5 million this year. VW is due to announce 2017 deliveries for the group as a whole on Jan. 17. In China, Volkswagen's largest market, accounting for about half the core brand's deliveries, sales rose 5.9 percent last year to 3.18 million cars. In the United States, they were up 5.2 percent to 339,700 cars. Deliveries dropped 2.5 percent to 1.43 million cars in the higher-margin, but diesel-heavy western European market as customers reacted to a backlash against diesel technology in the wake of Volkswagen's emissions trickery. Sales of the VW brand, which is pushing a turnaround plan to revive profits, may continue to outpace rivals, according to industry forecaster IHS Markit. Deliveries of VW passenger cars and light commercial vehicles could increase 14.6 percent to 7.75 million units by 2025 from 6.76 million last year, IHS data indicated. That compares with gains of 11.6 percent to 9.65 million at Toyota and 3.7 percent to 5.84 million at Ford.

Volkswagen brand car sales hit record 6.23 million in 2017

China needs to let local governments take responsibility for their finances, including allowing bankruptcies, as part of an effort to defuse their debt risks, a central bank official wrote on Monday.

Central government control of the scale of local government bonds should be eliminated, while responsibility to issue and repay bonds should be held by the city or county that will actually use the funds, Xu Zhong, head of the People&#39;s Bank of China&#39;s research bureau, wrote in a an editorial on the financial news website Yicai.

&quot;Eliminate central government control on the scale of local government bond issues, expand the scale of local government debt issues,&quot; Xu wrote.

&quot;Whether (bonds) can be issued, and at what price, must be examined and screened by the financial markets. There does not need to be worry about local governments chaotically issuing debt.&quot;

China&#39;s top leadership decided at a meeting this week to take concrete measures to strengthen the regulation of local government debt next year as policymakers look to rein in a massive debt pile and reduce financial risks facing the economy.

The government needs to clarify responsibility as it explores a bankruptcy system for local governments, Xu wrote, as there is still an expectation that the central government will bail out those that run into fiscal problems.

&quot;China must have an example like the bankruptcy in Detroit. Only if we allow local state-owned firms and governments to go bankrupt will investors believe the central government will break the implicit guarantee,&quot; Xu wrote, adding that social services should be maintained.

The United States city of Detroit filed the largest-ever municipal bankruptcy in July 2013, with $18 billion of debt.

Xu also said that China should dismantle the hukou system of internal migration control, as free movement of people promoted equal access to public services and helped resolve imbalances in finances.

In a report published on Saturday, China`s National Audit Office said China should dispel the &quot;illusion&quot; that the central government will pick up the bill for local government debt.

But China should also increase the limit for local government debt as general government debt is primarily used for poverty relief spending, while also controlling spending on new projects.

&quot;Financial institutions must not provide financing to projects without a source of stable operating cash flow or that do not have compliant collateral,&quot; the office said.

China's top leadership decided this week to take concrete measures to strengthen the regulation of local government debt next year as policymakers look to rein in a massive debt pile and reduce financial risks facing the economy.

China needs to let local governments take responsibility for their finances, including allowing bankruptcies, as part of an effort to defuse their debt risks, a central bank official wrote on Monday. Central government control of the scale of local government bonds should be eliminated, while responsibility to issue and repay bonds should be held by the city or county that will actually use the funds, Xu Zhong, head of the People's Bank of China's research bureau, wrote in a an editorial on the financial news website Yicai. "Eliminate central government control on the scale of local government bond issues, expand the scale of local government debt issues," Xu wrote. "Whether (bonds) can be issued, and at what price, must be examined and screened by the financial markets. There does not need to be worry about local governments chaotically issuing debt." China's top leadership decided at a meeting this week to take concrete measures to strengthen the regulation of local government debt next year as policymakers look to rein in a massive debt pile and reduce financial risks facing the economy. The government needs to clarify responsibility as it explores a bankruptcy system for local governments, Xu wrote, as there is still an expectation that the central government will bail out those that run into fiscal problems. "China must have an example like the bankruptcy in Detroit. Only if we allow local state-owned firms and governments to go bankrupt will investors believe the central government will break the implicit guarantee," Xu wrote, adding that social services should be maintained. The United States city of Detroit filed the largest-ever municipal bankruptcy in July 2013, with $18 billion of debt. Xu also said that China should dismantle the hukou system of internal migration control, as free movement of people promoted equal access to public services and helped resolve imbalances in finances. In a report published on Saturday, China`s National Audit Office said China should dispel the "illusion" that the central government will pick up the bill for local government debt. But China should also increase the limit for local government debt as general government debt is primarily used for poverty relief spending, while also controlling spending on new projects. "Financial institutions must not provide financing to projects without a source of stable operating cash flow or that do not have compliant collateral," the office said.

China needs Detroit-style bankruptcy as debt problems remain: Central bank official

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