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  • The Daily Brief: Kid Cudi Testifies Against Diddy, Former Deputy Mayor Pleads Guilty to Bomb Threat Hoax, and more.

The Daily Brief: Kid Cudi Testifies Against Diddy, Former Deputy Mayor Pleads Guilty to Bomb Threat Hoax, and more.

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Good Afternoon! It’s Thursday, May 22

Parts of Los Angeles saw cloud cover at times on Tuesday with highs reaching 81°. Tomorrow, temperatures are expected to be very similar to today, with more clouds in the forecast.

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Kid Cudi Testifies in Diddy Trial: “We Were Both Played” by Cassie

Kid Cudi took the stand in Sean “Diddy” Combs’s federal trial this week, recounting the 2011 firebombing of his Porsche after a brief relationship with Cassie Ventura—who was still involved with Combs at the time. The rapper testified about a tense confrontation with Combs and said both men were “played” by Ventura. Prosecutors allege the arson was an act of retaliation, while Combs denies any involvement.

Former Deputy Mayor Pleads Guilty to Bomb Threat Hoax at LA City Hall

Brian Williams, L.A.’s former Deputy Mayor of Public Safety, has pleaded guilty to fabricating a bomb threat to City Hall, falsely claiming a caller was upset over the city’s support for Israel. The October 2024 hoax triggered a police sweep and alarmed top officials, including Mayor Karen Bass. Williams now faces up to 10 years in federal prison for the felony charge, as questions swirl over his motive and continued status on the city payroll.

PCH Reopens After Fire Just in Time for Memorial Day Weekend

An 11-mile stretch of Pacific Coast Highway will reopen Friday for the first time since the Palisades Fire, following a massive cleanup effort. The early reopening, driven by a coordinated emergency response from state and federal agencies, comes just ahead of Memorial Day weekend. While local businesses welcome the return of traffic, officials caution drivers to expect delays as construction continues.

L.A. Closes Records Request on Palisades Fire With No Explanation

Months after promising records tied to the city’s response to the Palisades Fire, L.A. officials now claim no relevant communications exist from acting mayor Marqueece Harris-Dawson. The reversal has raised transparency concerns, with legal experts questioning how a major natural disaster could leave behind no trace of official messaging.

Alix Earle Joins Season 34 of Dancing With the Stars

Social media star and Hot Mess podcast host Alix Earle has been announced as the second celebrity contestant on Season 34 of Dancing With the Stars, joining Robert Irwin in the race for the Mirrorball Trophy. Earle shared the news on Good Morning America, calling it a lifelong dream inspired by childhood memories watching the show with her grandmother. With over 7.5 million TikTok followers and a growing media presence, Earle is ready to take her next big step—from influencer to ballroom competitor.

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