WWE Star Sonya Deville Targeted In Alleged Kidnapping Plot ... Arrest Made at Her Home
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Cops have thwarted an apparent kidnapping attempt at the home of WWE superstar Sonya Deville -- claiming the suspect is an obsessed fan who was armed with a knife, zip ties and duct tape.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office in Lutz, Florida arrested 24-year-old Philip A. Thomas on Sunday ... saying he had been planning his move for 8 months.
Officials say Thomas parked his car at a nearby church late Saturday night and walked to Deville's home -- where he cut a hole in a patio screen, waited for several hours and then entered the residence around 2:45 AM.
Thomas set off a house alarm, which startled Deville -- and once she realized there was an intruder, she fled the home with another person and called 911.
Cops arrived and found Thomas still inside the home. He was arrested for attempted armed kidnapping, armed burglary, aggravated stalking and misdemeanor criminal mischief.
Cops say he's an obsessed fan who was on a mission to "inflict harm."
"Our deputies are unveiling the suspect's disturbing obsession with this homeowner who he had never met, but stalked on social media for years," the HCSO said in a statement.
"It's frightening to think of all the ways this incident could have played out had the home alarm not gone off and alerted the homeowner of an intruder. Our deputies arrived within minutes and arrested this man who was clearly on a mission to inflict harm."
26-year-old Deville -- real name Daria Berenato -- later commented on Twitter, thanking cops.
"Thank you everyone for your love and concern. A very frightening experience but thankfully everyone is safe," Deville said.
"A special thank you to Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office for their response and assistance."
Deville appeared on the WWE reality competition "Tough Enough" back in 2015 and went on to become a star with the company.
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Kim Kardashian Joins Kanye for Sunday Service ... Good Sign for the Marriage???
Kim Kardashian showed up for Kanye West's Sunday Service over the weekend, and it could -- COULD -- be a sign that maybe their make-or-break vacation worked.
Kim and the kids made the trek to Wyoming to join Kanye for the service ... a service we haven't seen for a while. She posted video with the caption, "Guess what's back?!?!"
Among the many highlights -- Kim and Kanye's kids running around as North yells for her Dad ... a lot of singing and dancing, and a new song alert.
As for COVID-19 ... Kim says Kanye's team took precautions to keep the choir healthy and safe, pointing out that they filmed without an audience. She says the music will be available soon for those who need their spirits lifted.
Kanye also tweeted ... "Praise God. We would like to thank our staff for making sure all Covid safety guidelines were followed today during Sunday Service at our West Mountains family ranch in Wyoming."
It seems like the family getaway -- which included a tropical resort in the Dominican Republic did everybody good.
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Jason Wright Named President of Washington Football Team ... 1st Black NFL Team Pres
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The Washington Football Team has named Jason Wright as team president, the 1st Black team president in NFL history.
Yep, this is a big deal.
The 38-year-old spent 7 years as an NFL running back as an undrafted free agent out of Northwestern in 2004.
He spent time with the Atlanta Falcons, Cleveland Browns and Arizona Cardinals -- racking up 1,214 total yards and 5 TDs.
During the 2011 NFL lockout, Wright decided to leave go back to school -- and got his Masters Degree in Business from the University of Chicago. He later went on to become a partner for McKinsey & Co., a major consulting company.
Wright spoke with 'GMA' about his new job -- and explained why he's so excited about the gig.
"The fact that I happen to be Black and the most qualified person is a boost," Wright said.
Congratulations Jason Wright! @michaelstrahan talks one-on-one with the first-ever black @NFL team president who will lead @WashingtonNFL. https://t.co/6P7sdBJ5js pic.twitter.com/BKhd25EN8Y
— Good Morning America (@GMA) August 17, 2020 @GMA
Wright says he's well-aware of the PR issues the team faces -- from the team name controversy to the allegations of sexual harassment -- and says he looks forward to helping the "culture transformation."
As for the new name of the team, Wright says he's not spilling the beans yet. He just got hired!
Wright is Washington's 2nd major non-white hire in the past few months -- after naming Ron Rivera head coach.
Rivera replaced Jay Gruden. Wright takes over for Bruce Allen -- both of whom were fired in 2019.
Wright later tweeted, "So excited to join the movement that the Snyders and Coach Rivera have launched. Ready to dive in!"
Congrats!
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Post Malone, Slash & MGK Lend Voices to Keep Legendary Guitar Shop Rockin'
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Norman's Rare Guitars is in trouble ... and Slash and Post Malone are among the celebs holding out hope the legendary guitar shop avoids its swan song.
Here's the deal ... Norman Harris' famed guitar shop in L.A.'s San Fernando Valley is in serious jeopardy of closing its doors forever due to the pandemic, and celebs are trying to raise awareness in a new documentary, with personal tales of how Norman and his store impacted their careers.
The shop's served as a mecca for guitar enthusiasts and music icons ever since it opened its doors way back in 1975, but the coronavirus could be the final nail in its coffin -- unless MGK, Post and other famous rockers can pull off a miracle -- and get people to buy product.
Norman's daughter, Sarah Edwards, says her dad's store isn't in dire straits financially, but Norman could be forced to keep the store shuttered because he's a 71-year-old type I diabetic who can't interact with customers like usual anymore.
Norman's Rare Guitars closed its doors back in March, and Sarah says her dad can only go in on Tuesdays and Fridays for a couple hours to pack and ship internet orders and film content for the store's social media.
Gone are the days when Norman would shake hands and take pictures with customers, and lend his guitars to rockers for epic jam sessions. Sad.
Slash, Jeff Daniels, The Goo Goo Dolls, Melissa Etheridge and Jeff Garlin are among the celebs lamenting the possible loss of another music landmark in the upcoming documentary directed by Devin J. Dilmore and produced by Norm's daughter and Kiefer Sutherland.
It's currently in production, but until then ... we know where you can get a sweet guitar!
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Derrius Guice Accused of Reckless Driving More Problems For Troubled NFL Star
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He lost his job. He's fighting domestic violence allegations -- and now, Derrius Guice has been ordered to appear in court over a reckless driving incident.
TMZ Sports has learned ... the ex-Washington Football Team running back was popped going 95 in a 55 near Dulles Airport back in June -- the latest in a string of speeding incidents in Virginia.
He was cited for misdemeanor reckless driving and a court date has been set for Sept.
Normally, this isn't a big deal ... but for Guice, it's another strike against a once-promising NFL star battling to keep his career.
As previously reported, Guice was arrested earlier this month on several serious domestic violence-related charges ... including felony strangulation.
Officials say Guice attacked his GF on 3 separate occasions from February to April -- and if convicted on all counts, he faces serious prison time.
While digging around on the domestic violence case, we came across a bunch of speeding incidents involving Guice dating back to May 2019.
In total, 4 speeding tickets over the course of 13 months -- seems Guice has a lead foot.
Guice's attorney has said the RB "adamantly denies" the domestic violence charges.
So far, no word back on the reckless driving allegation -- but it's nothing to sneeze at ... it carries up to a year in jail if the judge wants to throw the book at him.
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Jesse James That's My Monkey in Your House ... And, Yes, He's VERY Happy to See You!!!
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Jesse James' monkey is hot and bothered by his neighbors -- breaking into their house and flaunting an erection!!! Teenagers.
Here's the deal ... Jesse's pet monkey, Tobi James, got loose, slipped into a neighbor's pad this week, and then things got super wild. Tobi ran around the house, knocking over cups of coffee, climbing up and down the stairs -- and, obviously, REALLY excited about it.
Yep, adolescent monkeys get boners too, and Tobi was sporting it his during his hijinks ... as you can see in this video.
Jesse's neighbor, Carrie, tells us Tobi barged in Tuesday around 8:30 AM, when she heard what sounded like someone trying to break in. She says she saw the door handle jiggling and got the creeps -- but still decided to slowly open the door.
When she did, the little critter dashed inside and started monkeying around. Yes, that's a euphemism for playing with himself ... all over the house!!!
Carrie smartly consulted a Facebook page for her town of Dripping Springs, TX -- and folks there told her Tobi belonged to Jesse, who came over to pick him up.
Carrie says Jesse was apologetic and explained Tobi is about 4 years old, which is like a teen in human years, and y'know what that means -- puberty and hormones. Jesse thinks that's why Tobi bolted from his house.
We're seeing a lot of cold showers in this monkey's future.
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Guess Who This Cute Kid Turned Into!
Before this smirking sweetheart was making a career out of her blonde hair, she was just another cute kid posing for her school pictures in New Orleans, Louisiana.
This little lady started out in the movie world by acting in beloved romantic comedies, but quickly took the industry by storm to become one of the most influential and highest-paid women in Hollywood.
Now -- after winning an Academy Award and two Golden Globe Awards -- she has proved her talent by switching to television and has produced hit shows on HBO, Apple TV, and Hulu.
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Kim Kardashian I'm Going to Help Free C-Murder ... Monica's Ex, Master P's Bro
Kim Kardashian has her sights set on her next prison case -- saying she's going to put her resources toward helping free a famous rapper who's Master P's sibling ... AKA, C-Murder.
She made the announcement Sunday, noting evidence has been questioned in the case and that eyewitnesses have since recanted their testimony about pinning him to the crime he was convicted of committing, not to mention jurors allegedly being pressured to vote guilty.
My heart goes out to the family of Steve Thomas. I can only imagine how hard this is and my intention is never to open up this painful wound but to help find the truth behind this tragedy.
— Kim Kardashian West (@KimKardashian) August 16, 2020 @KimKardashian
Kim writes, "On January 18, 2002 a tragedy occurred when a young man was killed. The next day Corey Miller was arrested for the murder." She went on to say he was convicted on a ruling of 10-2, and that if his trial happened today ... it would have to be unanimous.
She says true justice means catching the actual killer -- C-Murder was accused of fatally shooting a 16-year-old at a Louisiana club -- and that in light of these new developments over the past several years, it's time to get him out, or have him retried at the very least.
Right now, C-Murder is serving a life sentence at the Louisiana State Penitentiary.
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Kim also says she's teaming up with C-Murder's ex-girlfriend, Monica, in the effort to free him. Monica's been outspoken about the cause for a while -- and now, she has a powerful ally in KK to actually get some movement. Kim's bringing on some high-leverage attorneys.
It looks like C-Murder himself is incredibly appreciative of the love and dedication Monica's shown over the years ... 'cause he shouted her out in a new IG post in light of the news.
He writes, "Moses when they took me I told you go live your life because you didn’t deserve what the system was about to do to me. You still stood for me, without me asking created a team that could change the outcome of a very unfair fate! You been Forever Tru , One in a Lifetime!! @monicadenise got em saying #FreeCoreyMiller."
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C-Murder was on Master P's label, No Limit, in the '90s and put a number of successful records over his career. He's been featured in tons of songs with other famous rappers like Snoop Dogg, Lil Boosie, Papoose, Krayzie Bone, Magic and several others.
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University of North Georgia Students Flood Streets, Party Hard ... Before 1st Day of School
Another school year is ramping up -- and while some institutions are holding off on in-person classes, others are letting their students come back ... including UNG, which is already proving to be a COVID nightmare even before Day 1.
The first day of classes at the University of North Georgia begins on Monday, when students return to campus. Of course, that means a crap ton of 18-to-20-somethings flocked into town over the weekend and did what college kids do ... pack in tight and party the night away.
Check out this video of what must be dozens, if not hundreds, of students flooding the street of what appears to be an off-campus housing neighborhood. There's massive crowds for as far as the eye can see, and of course ... no one's distanced and no one's wearing masks.
It also doesn't look like there's a cop or campus security guard in sight -- then again, if it is off-campus housing ... it's probably a college student-driven area, so maybe nobody minds.
What we imagine people -- especially the faculty -- will care about in a couple weeks here when symptoms can set in ... is how much of the student body start getting sick, and what this rager might have to do with it right out the gate. At this rate, things could get ugly fast.
UNG has said they're committed to providing a safe environment for students this fall semester, with new guidelines and precautions in place. That's all fine and good while folks are on campus, but when the kids leave ... who can realistically control what they do?
It's a tough question, and one lots of other schools that decide to reopen will have to grapple with as the school year starts once more. Maybe, online learning ain't that bad an idea 🤷🏽♂️
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Elvis Presley Fans Flock to Graceland w/ Masks For 43rd Death Anniversary
Elvis Presley lives on in the hearts of adoring fans who made sure to pay their respects on his 43rd death anniversary ... even if it meant wearing masks and having to spread out.
A candlelight vigil was held for The King Saturday night at his Graceland estate in Memphis, Tennessee -- which hundreds of people flocked to come sundown just to get a glimpse of the man's gravesite and leave behind flowers, notes and photos of their idol. It was one of the last events for Elvis Week around there -- but this year, precautions were in place.
Elvis Week: Candlelight Vigil https://t.co/TVviQsr8iR
— Commercial Appeal (@memphisnews) August 16, 2020 @memphisnews
The vigil was a ticketed event of sorts -- only 720 people were given access to the grounds for an up-close view, and the folks running the place only let parties in who wore face coverings and traveled in groups of 6 or less. Also, everyone had to trickle in slowly for proper distancing ... so it was certainly less packed than gatherings like this in the past.
Elvis candlelight vigil is 'socially distanced' at Graceland https://t.co/4LYyHdyse3
— Commercial Appeal (@memphisnews) August 16, 2020 @memphisnews
There were also police officers stationed outside the property with barricades in place blocking off surrounding roads -- so people who didn't have tickets couldn't even get near the mansion to watch from a distance. By and large, it sounds like it was a success (COVID-wise).
Fortunately, Elvis fans didn't seem to mind either -- in fact, people came from all over the country (and the world) for the momentous event ... marking the year Elvis had been gone longer than he'd been on this Earth. He was just 42 when he died in 1977.
On Sunday -- the day he actually died -- Elvis Week is set to cap off with a virtual gospel event at the Graceland soundstage, and later tonight ... a drive-in Elvis movie in the parking lot (which we imagine will also be limited). Definitely a bummer, but better than nothing.
Elvis died after suffering a heart attack. He was discovered on the bathroom floor, where he was using the commode moments earlier. His legacy is cemented in pop culture as a pioneer for modern rock 'n' roll music as well as the blues.
Speaking of that, he's faced criticism in the years since his death for culturally appropriating music made popular by Black artists, and passing it off as his own style. Still, the guy was incredibly talented ... and goes down as an icon from his time, paving the way for other big-time acts to follow. John Lennon once said, "Before Elvis, there was nothing."
He left behind his wife, Priscilla, and only child Lisa-Marie ... plus lots of grandchildren, many of whom went on to be famous in their own right. Some have tragically passed as well.
RIP
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Missouri Home For Sale 2-Bed, 2-Bath Crib ... Doubles as 9-Cell Jail in Basement!!!
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This is either straight out of your worst nightmare or wildest dream -- a beautiful Victorian home with a dark secret in the basement ... AKA, a fully operational jail with cells intact.
A realty company called House of Brokers has a listing for a 2-bed, 2-bath, single-family brick home in Fayette, MO ... going for $350k. It's described as a historic site -- but that history is steeped in inmate lockups, 'cause the place used to double as an actual jail site.
Unclear what law enforcement agency operated out of here once upon a time, but it's clear they were using it to house prisoners ... 'cause the basement was literally reconstructed to accommodate just that. It features a full booking room and 9 cells, steel bunk beds and all.
The listing agent, Jeffrey Radel, had a cheeky description of the place, which raised eyebrows. He writes, "WAIT until you get to picture #30!! 1875 Howard County Sheriff's House and Jail. Extremely unique opportunity!!" Pic 30 is where the vibe changes drastically.
After describing the main house -- which looks nice with the renovations -- he adds, "AND THE BEST PART, connected to the home is a 2500 sq ft legitimate jail with 9 cells, booking room and 1/2 bath. The cell door lock throws appear to be operational. Full basement under the home with lighting throughout. Possibilities are amazing with this property."
We asked what his intention behind that last line might be -- and Jeffrey assured us he wasn't trying to offend or invite others to still use it as a jail. He says he meant it more like an opportunity to rework the space -- for wine tasting, for example -- and insists he was just trying to capture potential buyers' attention, since that's his job. He simply wants it sold.
Here's hoping whoever swoops this place up isn't the Buffalo Bill type, 'cause this could get twisted fast in the wrong hands. But hey, for that square footage ... not a bad deal.
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Donald Trump Younger Brother Robert Dead at 71
Robert Trump, President Donald Trump's younger brother, has died.
The White House released a statement Saturday night from the President ... "It is with heavy heart I share that my wonderful brother, Robert, peacefully passed away tonight."
It was apparent Robert Trump was gravely ill a few days ago, when Donald Trump flew to New York City to visit him in the hospital. He had reportedly been in ICU for upwards of a week.
Robert Trump was an exec in the Trump organization and close to his older brother. In announcing Robert's death, Donald Trump said, “He was not just my brother, he was my best friend. He will be greatly missed, but we will meet again. His memory will live on in my heart forever. Robert, I love you. Rest in peace.”
Robert Trump made news in the last few months when he tried to block a book, "Too Much and Never Enough," written by his niece, Mary Trump. The book was published in July.
Joe Biden sent his condolences, saying, "Mr. President, Jill and I are sad to learn of your younger brother Robert's passing. I know the tremendous pain of losing a loved one -- and I know how important family is in moments like these. I hope you know that our prayers are with you all."
Robert Trump was 71.
RIP
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LeBron James Powerful Speech on 'Space Jam' Set I Came From Nothing, Can't Believe I'm Here
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TMZ Sports obtained audio of the farewell speech LeBron James gave to the "Space Jam" cast and crew on his last day of shooting ... and it's emotional stuff.
The NBA superstar addressed the cast and crew in Summer 2019 (before the COVID pandemic) ... and explained why it was so important for him to take the role in the first place.
"I'm gonna be honest completely with you guys -- when I found out about the project, I was like it's 'Space Jam'! It’s a movie that I grew up watching. People in the movie that I idolize. I was like absolutely, I gotta do it. There’s no way I can turn down 'Space Jam'!"
Bron joked that he had second thoughts when he realized the production schedule was so demanding, but ultimately decided it was the opportunity of a lifetime.
"I’m just a small kid from Akron, Ohio -- a very small town outside of Cleveland. From a single-parent household, I’m the only child, my mother had absolutely nothing. She was walking around high school when she was 16 years old and she was pregnant with me as a high school sophomore. So, I’m really not supposed to be here."
"Growing up in the inner city, as an African-American kid, there’s no way you’re supposed to f*cking make it out. And, the fact that I’m who I am as an African-American adult now with 3 kids of my own, and I made it out of the situations that I was in. This sh*t is like extra credit for me man."
Bron proceeded to thank everyone involved with the movie -- saying, "Y'all say you appreciate me, but I’m sh*t without y'all."
As we previously reported, James invited some of his NBA pals and teammates to participate in the movie -- including Damian Lillard, Klay Thompson and Anthony Davis.
The piece is set to drop next summer ... start gettin' that popcorn ready now!
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Ben Affleck, Ana De Armas We Went Hog Wild on Ben's Bday!!!
Ben Affleck and Ana De Armas hit the road Saturday on a brand new motorcycle, and it looks like a birthday present as Ben inches closer to 50.
Ben actually just turned 48, a perfect age for a chopper that may have been a birthday gift from his GF.
Ana's got no fear riding behind Ben. At times her arms are outstretched and then she flashes a victory sign.
They seem super serious now. It was back in March when they unveiled their romance when they took a trip together to Cuba.
Ben recently visited Ana on the set of her new movie. Earlier this month they went on a double date with his lifelong buddy, Matt Damon, and his wife, Luciana Barroso.
They've even gone house hunting, although it's unclear for whom.
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Black Lives Matter Pro-Trump Proud Boys in Violent Fight with BLM Protesters
In the event you think this presidential election will not trigger violence ... watch this video.
The Proud Boys group made its presence known Saturday in the swing state of Michigan, fighting hundreds of counterprotesters at the Arcadia Creek Festival Place in Kalamazoo, and as things got tense the protests began to move around the City.
It turned into a brutal fight, and police began arresting people who refused to leave. It's unclear how it all started, but it appears members of Proud Boys used pepper spray on the BLM protesters and that's when the fight erupted.
Proud Boys is a hate group ... so says the Southern Poverty Law Center, claiming the group targets various groups including Muslims and propagates hate-fueled rhetoric.
You see Trump signs displayed as members of Proud Boys fight the BLM crowd.
Kendall Jenner, Devin Booker We're Grabbin' Grub at Nobu ... Kylie's There Too!!!
Kendall Jenner was true to form -- as in looking amazing -- as she stepped out of Nobu restaurant in Malibu Saturday night, with a guy she's said in the past she's not dating, but if Kendall and NBA star Devin Booker are just friends, they're REALLY good friends.
Kendall and Devin have chowed down at Nobu in the past. They've been seen together in various places over the last few months, including a road trip through Sedona, AZ. They've also been flirting online, so there's definitely some smoke here.
As for Devin, he was sprung from the NBA bubble Friday after the Phoenix Suns failed to make the playoffs.
Kylie Jenner was also at Nobu, which seems to be the go-to restaurant for celebs during the pandemic. She and big sister Kendall just returned from Turks and Caicos, where Kylie had an epic 23rd birthday bash, which has gone on for a week now and may not be done.