The judge in the murder trial against Karmelo Anthony, accused of stabbing Frisco, Texas teen track star Austin Metcalf to death in April, has issued a gag order in the case.Collin County Judge John Roach issued the order, citing pre-trial publicity that could affect the outcome of the case, according to FOX 4.The public will not hear from attorneys, witnesses, law enforcement or any other entities related to the case until after the trial, scheduled for June 2026, is over.TRIAL DATE SET FOR AUSTIN METCALFS SUSPECTED KILLER IN TRACK MEET STABBINGThe alleged murder and the events thereafter set off a firestorm nationwide, sparking outrage over Metcalf's death.Metcalf, 17, a student at Memorial High School, was participating in a track championship event at Kuykendall Stadium in Frisco when he was stabbed to death.Anthony, then 17, was taken into custody almost immediately and charged with murder. His bond was set at $1 million, and he was initially held in the Collin County Jail.Anthony was a student at Centennial High School, but did not participate in the track meet that day.The stabbing was allegedly preceded by a dispute inside the Memorial High School tent. Metcalf died in the arms of his brother, Hunter."My son is gone, and he'll never come home again," Jeff Metcalf said on the program. "Austin was the light of my life."Metcalf discussed the bond between Austin and his twin brother, Hunter."They were so tight. They had the best bond. They were best friends," Metcalf said of the pair. "And now, I have to focus on taking care of Hunter."Fox News Digital obtained Anthony's arrest report, which detailed the circumstances under which he was detained.A school resource officer was the first on scene, and detained him without incident."I gave the suspect instructions to keep his hands up in the air. During this time, the suspect said verbally out loud, I was protecting myself," the report from the responding resource officer said. "It should be noted that I had not questioned him about the incident when he made that comment."AUSTIN METCALF'S ACCUSED KILLER NEEDS SUPPORT FIGHTING 'WHITE SUPREMACY' AFTER MURDER INDICTMENT: SPOXAnthony said Metcalf "put his hands on him."When Anthony overheard a group of officers saying he "allegedly" killed Metcalf, he said "I'm not alleged; I did it," according to the report.He asked officers if Metcalf would be OK, and whether what he did could be considered self-defense.In the wake of the stabbing, Anthony's mother, Kayla Hayes, established a GiveSendGo campaign for her son's defense.Less than a week after the stabbing, the fund had reached about $150,000. The crowdfunding campaign has been a source of contention since it was created as tensions have flared in the case."As a family of faith, we are deeply grateful for all of your support during this trying period," the Anthony family said in a statement on GiveSendGo. "Your prayers and assistance mean more to us now more than ever."The fund has garnered just shy of $550,000. Its goal is more than $1.3 million.Fox News Digital obtained an arrest report describing a heated seating dispute in the Memorial High School track tent.A witness told police that Metcalf ordered Anthony to leave the team's tent, before Anthony said he "grabbed his bag, opened it and reached inside it" and said, "Touch me and see what happens.""Austin stood up and pushed the male to get him out of the tent," the arrest report said.That's when police allege Anthony pulled out a knife and stabbed Metcalf to death.AUSTIN METCALFS SUSPECTED KILLER INDICTED ON FIRST-DEGREE MURDER CHARGE IN TRACK MEET STABBINGAnthony's then-attorneys, Bill Clark of the Clark Law Firm and Kim Cole of K Cole Law, asked for a reduction of the $1 million bond, calling it "excessive."Collin County District Attorney Greg Willis announced that Anthony could not face the death penalty or life without parole under Texas state law because he was a juvenile at the time of the alleged crime.Anthony's family hired his current attorney, Mike Howard, who successfully argued for Anthony's bond to be reduced to $250,000.Anthony was released on bond and required to wear an ankle monitor and remain on house arrest unless granted permission to leave by a judge."Every Texan has the right to defend themselves when they reasonably fear for their life," Howard said. "Self-defense is a protection that applies to each and every one of us. There are two sides to every story.""This is a tragedy all the way around for both families," he added. "Rushing to judgment, trial by public perception, and trial by media is not how we ensure justice is done. We are confident that, after a full investigation, that the truth will come out."SURVEILLANCE VIDEO SHOWS FATAL STABBING OF AUSTIN METCALF AT TEXAS TRACK MEET, OFFICIALS SAYThe Anthony family retained the New Generation Action Network (NGAN) to speak on their behalf. The group is headed by Dominique Alexander, a stalwart Black Lives Matter and defund the police activist with a prior criminal history.NGAN largely injected race into the conversation about Anthony's arrest.At the April 17 news conference, Jeff Metcalf showed up to attend. The event was open to the public.However, he was removed by Dallas Police under the threat of criminal trespass charges.Alexander blasted the elder Metcalf during the conference."What we've seen at the beginning of this press conference, of the father being at this press conference, these are my words don't quote anybody is a disrespect to the dignity of his son," Alexander said.SUSPECT IN AUSTIN METCALF KILLING MOVED TO 'UNDISCLOSED LOCATION' FOR PROTECTION: FAMILY SPOKESMAN"Next Generation Action Network from the beginning has respected the loss of life, no matter our opinion of it. We have kept our opinion close," he said. "We have not attacked. We have not shared the information that was shared with us about Austin Metcalf because we respect the dignity of life and loss."That was disrespectful and just shows you all the character," Alexander said. "He was not invited. He knows that it's inappropriate to be near this family, but he did it. So, I say to people, actions speak louder than words.""What he has felled [sic] into is the political operatives that want to make this thing a political thing of hate and yet bigotry and yet racism," he said. "We have conservative operatives that have been posting nonstop about this case."Citing people loitering near the Anthony home, mailing them flyers, and unwanted pizza deliveries, the Anthony family moved to a new location."We are sharing images and documentation of the threats the family has faced this past weekend to make the public aware of the dangerous atmosphere that has been created an atmosphere fueled by organized hate, systemic racism, and intentional misinformation," NGAN said.Collin County Judge Angela Tucker, who lowered Anthony's bail, was doxxed, with people posting personal information about her."Due to the nature of the situation, we are coordinating with the FBI and our Fusion Center to monitor for any concerning rhetoric or propaganda that could incite violence," the Collin County Sheriff's Office said at the time.After Alexander and NGAN verbally attacked Jeff Metcalf for a second time, Austin's father responded."I don't allow [Alexander] to live rent free in my mind," he told Fox News Digital. "It really doesn't matter about the lies this man spreads. He just wants more attention. Don't give it to him. Justicer [sic] will prevail."Alexander returned to discussing the April 17 news conference via a video posted to his social media account."This press conference wasn't organized by him," Alexander said. "This press conference wasn't about him. This press conference didn't invite him. Yet at the end of the day, it's a criminal case y'all."SELF-DEFENSE CLAIM IN AUSTIN METCALF SLAYING IS 'UPHILL BATTLE': EXPERTAlexander then launched into a tirade about those online who have criticized him for his past criminal behavior and posted his past mugshots."I really don't care what no one says about me, I really don't," he said. "I don't care about the racist p----- who want to say something about Dominique and say something about my past. I really, quite frankly, don't. If you know me, you know your attacks towards me only do one thing: boost my ego. The reality is, I really don't, quite frankly, give a damn."Frisco ISD said that despite first-degree murder charges, Anthony would be allowed to graduate on May 22, though he would not be allowed to attend the ceremony.He was not expelled from school despite allegedly stabbing another Frisco ISD student to death.Superintendent Mike Waldrip took offense to social media rumors that Anthony would be able to attend the graduation ceremony."Frisco ISD has learned that misinformation is being shared regarding Centennial High Schools graduation via several media outlets and perpetuated through social media," he told WFAA. "It is disheartening that the incredible accomplishments and achievements of our Centennial seniors may be dampened by needless fearmongering, attention-seeking and media vitriol. Our students, staff and community deserve better."NGAN also weighed in."We are proud to share that Karmelo Anthony will graduate and receive his high school diploma, and that his academic achievements will not be disrupted," Alexander said.Anthony was indicted for his alleged murder of Metcalf."For weeks, my team has been presenting evidence to the grand jury. Today, I summarized that evidence, and I asked the Grand Jury to return a first-degree murder indictment against Karmelo Anthony which they did," Collin County District Attorney Greg Willis said.Jeff Metcalf told Fox News Digital that though he was pleased with the indictment, nothing will bring his son back."I am pleased that we are moving forward," he said. "With the first-degree murder indictment, it now goes into the court system. I fully believe that justice will be served for Austin Metcalf. I look forward to the forthcoming trial. But it will never bring my son back."Howard, Anthony's attorney, downplayed the indictment.TEXAS PRESS CONFERENCE IN AUSTIN METCALF KILLING DEVOLVES INTO CHAOS OVER TRACK MEET STABBING"Today's indictment is an expected and routine step in the legal process," he said, adding that there is an indictment in nearly every felony case."To the racists, the bigots, and those filled with hate whove targeted Karmelo, his family, and even myself you do not intimidate us. We are not backing down," Alexander said."This case is yet another example of what it means to be Black in America, where even our self-defense is questioned, scrutinized and politicized. My involvement like many others came as a direct response to the overwhelming hate, threats and outside influence that have surrounded this case since day one."He then asked Anthony's supporters for prayers, to support due process, and to "[s]tand with us in the fight against white supremacy."Anthony's trial date was set for June 1, 2026.Roach, the Collin County judge on the case, issued a gag order amid concerns that continued press coverage might jeopardize a fair trial.Prosecutors, defense attorneys, the Metcalf family and Alexander have remained silent since the gag order took effect.Fox News' Sarah Rumpf-Whitten, Stepheny Price and Jackson Thompson contributed to this report.

As a teen actress, starring in a hit Disney movie introduced Alyson Stoner to the darker side of fame.The entertainer had been performing since age 3. The 32-year-old danced alongside Missy Elliott and appeared in "Cheaper by the Dozen" and "Camp Rock," among other films. Now, Stoner is detailing the dangers of Hollywood stardom in a new memoir, "Semi-Well-Adjusted Despite Literally Everything.""Camp Rock" debuted on the Disney Channel in 2008 to 8.9 million viewers, resulting in a rabid fandom that the castmates werent anticipating. It made Demi Lovato and the Jonas Brothers household names. And at 15, Stoner, their co-star, suddenly became the target of stalkers and an attempted kidnapping.FORMER DISNEY CHILD STAR WOKE UP TO 'ZERO DOLLARS' IN BANK ACCOUNT AFTER NEARLY 20 YEARS IN SHOWBIZ"My team vetted a request from an international organization dedicated to fulfilling end-of-life wishes for terminally ill children," the now 32-year-old wrote. "I hopped on a virtual call and met Emily, a superfan of Camp Rock. Mom corresponded with their reps, who asked for travel information to book a flight for an in-person visit. After claiming I needed to travel alone, my moms intuition sounded an alarm.""Though my team approved the request, my mom did her own due diligence and discovered the website was a scam, the young girl was a plant, and I was walking into a kidnapping plot to be held hostage for ransom," Stoner revealed.Months later, the star received 50 messages on Twitter from a middle-aged stalker who was convinced that "I as a teen was his wife, named Cinderella, with whom he shared pet mice."According to the book, the obsessive fans numerous messages alternated "between praise and harmful threats." Then one day, he implied that he would show up to YouthArts, where Stoner volunteered weekly as an instructor.The man's IP was traced to Kansas. But just in case, Stoner provided a photo to the front desk, warning staff to be on the lookout.Then one day, Stoner spotted him. He entered through the back, and was holding flowers and fuzzy purple house slippers. Students ranging from ages six to 12 were in the building unaware that anything was unfolding."I made a thousand calculations in a split second," Stoner wrote. "There are no exits besides that doorway. I have vulnerable children under my care, and I cant scare them. I [needed] to get to the front desk to call the cops. I dont know what mental state hes in. I cant provoke him."CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE ENTERTAINMENT NEWSLETTERA panicked Stoner rushed to the front desk. Police were called, and they chased the man for about a mile. But he was gone.Stoner, who goes by they/them pronouns, claimed that the police informed them that the man "has to physically lay a hand on you before we can do much.""But he said he would end me if I didnt wear my hair in a bun in the way he liked So I have to die, and then you can help?" Stoner wrote.According to the book, the stalker appeared later wearing "an army green shirt" - a completely different ensemble. Stoner managed to get help from a parent to escape. Still, Stoner claimed that a studio manager labeled them "paranoid."WATCH: FORMER DISNEY STARS EXPLAIN HOW CHILD STARDOM PREPARED THEM FOR SPECIAL FORCES"Without a budget for a bodyguard, I became an expert at studying body language and herd behavior, noting traits and tendencies among people so I could anticipate interactions," wrote Stoner."Middle-aged men were typically dads of Disney-loving children, Missy Elliott or Steve Martin fans, or creeps. By the time they approached, Id already clocked how long theyd been staring, whether they were lone wolves, and if their hands were visible or hidden in pockets."This was just one of several frightening experiences that marked Stoners adolescence while being in the spotlight.Stoner described how someone gave out their number, which resulted in receiving nearly 900 text messages from strangers. Many asked for money. Others fired "really nasty messages" that sent their "already paper-thin trust to the shredder."Whenever Stoner went out in public, they had to devise plans to get to and from destinations to avoid being followed. But some managed to track Stoners locations, and one even discovered their flight itinerary. Love letters appeared outside hotel rooms, each one leaving Stoner uneasy. They also began questioning the motives of friends. Heading to dinner at a restaurant always meant slipping in and out in secret.Stoner grew up in Toledo, Ohio, and was scouted by the same woman who discovered hometown celebrity Katie Holmes. As a child, Stoner and their mother moved to Los Angeles to pursue a Hollywood career. By age 12, Stoner was poised to star in their own show until another teen sitcom "Hannah Montana" - was picked up. And by their mid-teens, Stoner was struggling with an eating disorder. They sought treatment at age 17.Later in the book, Stoner also claimed they were sexually assaulted by a potential business partner. The alleged assailant attended wellness events and was "well-adored in the community."LIKE WHAT YOURE READING? CLICK HERE FOR MORE ENTERTAINMENT NEWS"The last image I saw was a poster on the wall of a ravenous feline leaping for its prey," Stoner recalled in the book. "Then I blacked out, and he raped me."Stoner recently recalled to Fox News Digital how, after working in showbiz for nearly 20 years, they woke up to "zero dollars" in the bank account. There should have been over a million."Even though I was absolutely frugal, and I continue to be, there are a lot of loopholes that leave room for a childs money to be mishandled, even by people who have good intentions but dont understand the unique business structures of entertainment expenses," Stoner explained."It was shocking to wake up to zero dollars in an account," Stoner admitted. "I was mostly in denial at first. I was afraid for my future. I wondered after all this time, if I can be duped once, will I be taken advantage of again? Do I have the competence, the life skills to find my way outside the industry?"The entertainer was in their early 20s when they made the shocking discovery.Stoner and their older sister teamed up to investigate years of records,the book details. The duo discovered that Stoners business team had mismanaged finances, splurging on lavish gifts. Their mother, a "career bookkeeper," had been paying herself a monthly salary since Stoner was a child, plus taking "one-off payments" of "several thousand" over the years.There were also decades of hefty expenses to maintain a successful career in Hollywood. There were never any conversations about budgeting and saving.Stoner wrote that 15 years of labor turned into "a crumbling house of cards.""A lot of folks are unaware that it can cost between $10,000 and $20,000 for different expenses," said Stoner. "Many artists are losing money while spending a lot of time and energy and resources auditioning, only to be rejected a majority of the time The creative industry is largely unpaid labor. When youre a child, the assumption is that you can afford to do this for fun, because you arent necessarily the breadwinner."A devastated Stoner met with an entertainment lawyer. Ultimately, they decided against legal action, writing that they "cant burn a bridge with my mother." Stoner said they felt loyalty and compassion for the matriarch, who had also struggled with alcohol.Fox News Digital reached out to Stoners mother for comment."I began performing at the age of 3," Stoner reflected. "I attended a performance convention in New York at age 6. Unbeknownst to me, this was a recruitment funnel for Hollywood. Andmy Midwestern family had zero affiliation with the industry.""I had zero aspirations to pursue the industry," said Stoner. "And yet, there was a funnel with lots of different players, from agents to managers, to casting directors, who were used to seeing children go through this process almost like a conveyor belt, becoming packaged products for audiences."80S STAR KELLY LEBROCK RAN AWAY FROM HOLLYWOOD FOR GOATS, GRANDKIDS AND SIMPLER LIFE"At 6 years old, I couldn't understand the short- and long-term implications of having corporations own my name, image and likeness," Stoner continued. "It was also impossible for my family, who were given no upfront manual for what to expect, to recognize the consequences of disrupting every area of my childhood development, removing me from school to navigate 80-hour work weeks."Today, Stoner is the founder ofMovement Genius, an online platform that aims to make mental health support more accessible. Stoner is also a voice actor for Disney.Stoner noted that being an advocate forthe next generation of child performers is one of their most important roles today."My memoir gives people an opportunity to learn about the intimate details of what happened on all those sets growing up, while also answering very timely questions about what it means to navigate the world," said Stoner. "I tell people, Come for the childhood chaos. Stay for the cultural critique."

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store customers have been vocal on social media about their disdain for the recent transformation of the Tennessee-based restaurant chain.Those voices grew even louder after Cracker Barrel unveiled its new logo this week.The new logo does away with the illustration of an old man leaning against a barrel while seated in a chair. Instead, the text-only logo uses a new typeface against the familiar gold background.CRACKER BARREL UNVEILS NEW SIMPLIFIED LOGO: 'OUR STORY HASN'T CHANGED'Cracker Barrel also rolled out a new menu that includes breakfast, lunch and dinner options and "refreshed restaurant remodels" as part of its "All the More" campaign, according to a news release.Although Cracker Barrel chief marketing officer Sarah Moore touted the changes as "bringing fresh energy, thoughtful craftsmanship and heartfelt hospitality to our guests," many people on social media had a far different perspective.Benny Johnson, a YouTube content creator and conservative influencer based in Florida, wrote on X that the new logo is "absolutely horrible.""When will they learn?" he added.The responses were resoundingly negative.CRACKER BARREL CUSTOMERS 'HATE' RESTAURANT CHAIN'S NEW LOOK IN VIRAL SOCIAL MEDIA VIDEOS"Not a cracker or a barrel in sight," one person wrote."It's worse than horrible. It's ... generic," wrote another."Massive downgrade," someone else noted."They literally just ruined the entire thing. Change it back!" another person demanded."This logo change feels like a war crime," said yet another commenter.CRACKER BARREL EXECUTIVE INSISTS RESTAURANT REMODELS ARE 'WHAT THE GUESTS ASKED FOR'Even Steak 'n Shake had something to say about the Cracker Barrel backlash."This is what happens when you have a board that does not respect their historical customers or their brand," the Indianapolis-based burger chain wrote in part on its official X account.Fox News Digital reached out to Steak 'n Shake for comment.Others pointed out that Cracker Barrel seems to have lost its focus on food."They have been changing the menu and ingredients lately. It's not country cooking anymore," one person commented."The food has been substandard for a while," another said.Moore told Fox News Digital in May that Cracker Barrel has been "listening to what the guests ask for and examples of what the guests asked for are things like spaces that feel brighter, that feel less cluttered, more booth seating, more seating options, so our guests are more comfortable while they're dining with us."CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTERShe said fan favorites like the rocking chairs, peg games and antiquities on the wall aren't going anywhere."The things you love about us will stay," she said.A Cracker Barrel spokesperson told Fox News Digital in a statement that the company is "very pleased with the trajectory of our remodeled stores."For more Lifestyle articles, visit www.foxnews.com/lifestyle"Feedback from both guests and team members has been overwhelmingly positive and enthusiastic about the refreshed dining and shopping experience," the statement said."All of the elements of our remodels were informed by direct input fromour guests and team members alike. These changes are forthem."Cracker Barrel added that "there may be a vocal minority who feel differently."CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP"However, the strong performance of these locations affirms that we are moving in the right direction," the statement said."We hope people who haven't yet visited a remodeled store will visit us and experience the country hospitality proudly on display at every table and in every dish."

EXCLUSIVE: Sarah Ogasian, a Marine Corps spouse, mother and ER nurse, remembers the exact moment her husband, Master Sgt. Jon Ogasian, discovered their savings account had been wiped out.The couple lived in Highland, New York, while Jon was stationed at Stewart Air National Guard Base in Newburgh, before moving to Texas, where he is currently at Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base Fort Worth."[Jon] said that he woke up, went to work at the military base, opened up his cellphone and looked on his app, checking our bank accounts, and that it was completely drained," Sarah Ogasian said in an interview with Fox News Digital. "There was absolutely no money left in our bank account, and he just literally wanted to just vomit. As soon as the money was gone, it literally left us with pennies."The Ogasians were told by a representative from the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance that their money had been seized by the state through a tax levy.GRIEVING MOM TESTIFIES ABOUT MARINE VET SON'S DEATH AT HANDS OF VIOLENT ILLEGAL ALIENSAlthough New York has since admitted the levy was in error and canceled the assessment, the Ogasians say they are still waiting for their funds to be returned and are being told that "a processing fee is being taken out to get the check back.""If this is happening to us, then who else has this happened to? Who else has wrongfully gotten money taken out of their account?" Ogasian said.The Ogasian's case raises questions about whether state tax systems are failing to properly apply federal protections under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) and the Military Spouses Residency Relief Act (MSRRA).The SCRA is a federal law that shields active-duty service members from certain state taxes, liens and financial actions when their legal residence is elsewhere. In practice, it means that a Marine stationed in New York cannot be taxed by the state on his military income if his domicile is legally New Hampshire, which does not have an income tax.MILITARY SPOUSE AND MOM OF 5 FIGHTS BACK AS VACCINE DISPUTE BLOCKS FAMILY'S PERMANENT CHANGE OF STATIONThe Military Spouses Residency Relief Act also extends that same protection to military spouses, allowing them to claim the servicemembers home state for tax purposes even if they work in the stationed state.Capital One, the familys bank, told Fox News Digital it had complied with all applicable laws and stressed its commitment to honoring the SCRA, though the company declined to discuss the Ogasians account specifically."Capital One is committed to both the letter and spirit of the SCRA. This includes the provision of benefits and protections above and beyond what is required under the SCRA in certain situations that involve a Capital One loan or liability," a Capital One spokesperson said. "Further, we also comply with any applicable federal or state laws concerning levy orders."New York flagged the family because they had a state mailing address, but werent paying state taxes. Yet Jons W-2s and military records clearly listed New Hampshire as his legal domicile, making him exempt under federal law.When the Ogasians called, Sarah said they were shocked to find state officials weren't familiar with the SCRA protections."The New York tax rep had no idea what the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act even was. My husband had to explain it to him, which I dont think is his position," she said. "He shouldnt have had to explain that to a tax representative."According to Sarah, without access to their savings, her family has been unable to buy back-to-school clothes, repair their broken van, or pay for their childrens sports and dance activities."We were starting school here in Texas. We start in the first two weeks of August. We had to sit our kids down and say, listen, we dont have any money right now," she said. "Theres literally no money to be had. We cant afford school clothes, we cant afford new backpacks, we cant afford new shoes. We had to really limit what we got for the first time in our lives we just had to go out to like secondhand stores and get new clothes that way."Sarah points to the years of service and sacrifice their family has given. She worked on the front lines as an ER nurse during the COVID-19 pandemic, while Jon has served 21 years in the Marines, including deployments overseas."Back when COVID hit during the pandemic, I was working the front lines in upstate New York. I was the one there watching people die and holding their hands while their loved ones were not there. We were deemed as such heroes back then," she said. "And now, New York state couldn't care less about what Ive done for New York state, never mind my husband, who has served 21 years of his life."Fox News Digital reached out to New York Gov. Kathy Hochuls office and the state Office of the Taxpayer Rights Advocate, but had not received responses at the time of publication.For now, the Ogasians are left waiting, watching their hard-earned savings remain in limbo.CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP"People keep telling me sue the state, sue the state. And I said, no, I dont want their money. I just want my money back. The savings we worked hard for are being held hostage from us,'" said Sarah, who offered advice to other military families. "Keep your records. That is the biggest thing as a military family. But also know your rights. Know what the SCRA is. I didnt know what it was prior to that stick to your guns."When you know that youve been wronged, go for it."

The Department of Justice (DOJ) is set to begin turning over documents related to Jeffrey Epstein to the House Oversight Committee Friday.Committee Chair James Comer, R-Ky., told reporters Thursday that he had no timeline for when materials would be sent over, but confirmed he still expected files Friday.Comer suggested that documents would be made public at some point after being assessed by the committee."We'll work as quickly as we canthis is sensitive information," the Kentucky Republican said in response to Fox News Digital asking about a timeline for a wide release."We want to make sure we don't do anything to harm or jeopardize any victims that were involved in this. But we're going to be transparent. We're doing what we said we would do. We're getting the documents. And, I believe the White House will work with us."GOP LAWMAKERS CLASH OVER STRATEGY TO AVERT GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN CRISISComer was directed to subpoena the DOJ for materials related to Epstein's case via a bipartisan vote by committee members last month.The subpoena deadline, originally set for earlier this week, was moved to Friday in an effort to accommodate the Trump administration which Comer said was complying with his request."There are many records in DOJs custody, and it will take the Department time to produce all the records and ensure the identification of victims and any child sexual abuse material are redacted," Comer said on Tuesday. "I appreciate the Trump administrations commitment to transparency and efforts to provide the American people with information about this matter."GOP GOVERNOR NOMINEE PUSHES REDISTRICTING TO OUST STATE'S LONE HOUSE DEMHe told reporters Thursday that he believed there were "hundreds and hundreds of pages" of documents in existence."It's just a matter of getting it together and reviewing it, which I'm sure the Department of Justice is doing as we speak," Comer said.Requested materials included all documents and communications in the DOJ's possession relating to both Epstein and his accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell, as well as files "further relating or referring to human trafficking, exploitation of minors, sexual abuse, or related activity," according to a subpoena viewed by Fox News Digital.Documents relating specifically to the DOJ's prosecutions of Epstein and Maxwell, Epstein's 2007 non-prosecution agreement with federal prosecutors in Florida, and any materials related to Epstein's death were requested.Renewed furor over Epstein's case engulfed Capitol Hill after intra-GOP fallout over the Trump administration's handling of the matter.The DOJ effectively declared the case closed after an "exhaustive review," revealing Epstein had no "client list," did not blackmail "prominent individuals," and confirmed he did die by suicide in a New York City jail while awaiting prosecution.In response to the backlash by some on the right, President Donald Trump and his DOJ have sought to take steps to make more information public.Democrats seized on the backlash with newfound calls for transparency in Epstein's case, prompting some on the right to accuse them of hypocrisy for not pushing the matter earlier.When asked about that divide, House Oversight Committee member Rep. Jasmine Crockett, D-Texas, told reporters that Epstein's case was not a priority for Democrats in the same way it was seen by the GOP."I can tell you that Democrats, when they went out there and campaigned, they campaigned on costs, whether it was housing costs, whether it was food costs or whether they were campaigning on children, being able to get the education that they deserve in this country. This wasn't a promise that we made. So this was not something that was front and center," Crockett said."I don't see anything wrong with the fact that we were trying to do everything that we could to prevent our economy from being where it is right now. But ultimately, when people voted, they're telling us that they voted for this particular reason. It's important that we follow up."Fox News Digital reached out to the DOJ for comment but did not hear back by press time.

This story discusses suicide. If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, please contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255).An experienced British skydiver who died during a jump earlier this year deliberately fell to her death just one day after she and her partner had ended their relationship.Jade Damarell, 32, of Wales, fell into a field inCounty Durham,northern England, on April 27 and died of blunt trauma injuries, officials said,according to The Guardian. Coroner Leslie Hamilton ruled the death a suicide during an inquest held on Thursday, the outlet reported.Damarell who logged more than 500 successful jumps in her career intentionally failed to deploy her main parachute and disabled her automatic activation device, which would have released a backup chute at a certain altitude and speed if a skydiver was unable to do so, the Guardian reported. Her equipmentwas found to be functional after her fall, the outlet added.Damarell had been dating Ben Goodfellow, a 26-year-old fellow skydiver, for eight months before breaking up, according to the Daily Mail.WOMAN DIES AFTER FALLING AT LEAST 75 FEET WHILE HIKING IN NORTH CAROLINADuring the inquest, Hamilton summarized a note from Goodfellow, which read that the couple had "ended their relationship the night before" Damarell took her life, the Guardian said."The night before Jade died, Ben called off the relationship," a friend told the Daily Mail.YOUNG CREWMEMBER MURDERED ABOARD LUXURY SUPERYACHT IN PARADISE DESTINATION"He went to work the next day, and thats when Jade fell to her death," the friend added.Damarell who had completed six skydiving jumps on the day before her death typically wore a camera to capture her dives, but did not wear one during her last jump, according to the Daily Mail.FATAL SKYDIVING ACCIDENT IN ILLINOIS CLAIMS LIFE OF 40-YEAR-OLD AFTER DIVERS COLLIDE MIDAIRHer family accepted the coroners ruling and expressed gratitude to the skydiving community for its support, saying they were "incredibly comforted by how admired, respected and deeply loved she was," the Guardian said.They remembered Damarell as "brilliant, beautiful, brave and truly extraordinary," and added that they want to contribute to a "culture where mental ill-health is met with kindness and support," the outlet added.Leslie Hamilton did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Fox News Digital.

Few things in American life have felt as trapped in the amber of history as Cracker Barrel restaurants, with their recipe of comfort food served up in cozy confines that evoke a bygone era. It's little wonder Americans routinely wait for an hour to get a table after church, or welcome a road-trip diversion when they see the classic logo on a highway sign.Now, the cracker-jack whiz-kid marketing team at the iconic eatery's corprate headquarters has decided to forgo all of this, including possibly, based on public reaction to their changes, the long lines.CRACKER BARREL UNVEILS NEW SIMPLIFIED LOGO: 'OUR STORY HASNT CHANGED'This may not exactly be wokeness at work, as we have seen with so many brands such as Target and Bud Light, but it is something similarly lifeless and cold.The first object of outrage for fans of Cracker Barrel was a change to the design of the logo that has long stood sky-high along our rural highways, nearly as common as mile markers. It depicts an old man, sitting next to a barrel, presumably discussing farm equipment or the lack of rain.That was the deal for the weary traveler. Come on in, sit for a spell. Theres rocking chairs and well pour gravy over everything for you.The new antiseptic logo, though it keeps a similar font, is a cold C and B. It could be the corporate logo for almost any product you can imagine. It is indistinguishable from a logo that your cousin might make for his plumbing business using AI.One thing we can say is that this cold, corporate signage represents truth in advertising when you see what the wunderkinds in the Cracker Barrel C suite have in mind for the interior of the once-charming restaurants.Instead of feeling like an old-timey cottage, the new design has white walls, bright lights, modern decor and, all in all, looks more like a place for ladies who lunch than families or truck drivers.This is why the shake-up at Cracker Barrel feels like wokeness. It feels like this very authentic place is being turned into a cookie-cutter version of every other chain restaurant. And what is wokeness ultimately, but a demand for uniformity?There is no spark of life in wokeness. This is why the woke chant in unison, repeating each other like mindless drones, not individuals, but inseparable from the cause, the hive. Similarly, there is no life in this bright, white reimagining of Cracker Barrel.The pace of change in American life is frantic on almost every front. There are fewer and fewer things we can enjoy exactly the way we did 30 or even 15 years ago. It seems every day we awake to a world that we recognize less.It is possible that the Cracker Barrel brand has been struggling. In my travels Ive frequented a few, and after breakfast, I cant say they tend to be packed. But a rebrand doesnt have to erase the core of what customers love about a place.I have no doubt that these changes to Cracker Barrel were focus-grouped and product tested, they were surveyed and maybe even AI assisted. But just as is true for so many pollsters and politicians, they see the signal, but they dont hear the music.The music of Cracker Barrel has always been a dim but forceful hum, punctuated by a babys cry, or a bout of laughter from some darkened corner; it is as predictable and soothing as a Norman Rockwell painting, a solid, unchanging experience.CLICK HERE FOR MORE FOX NEWS OPINIONBut not anymore.Cracker Barrel may not have gone woke in the same way as Bud Light did with trans spokesmodel Dylan Mulvaney, or Target with its trans outfits for toddlers, but their new branding has the aesthetics of wokeness.This is an aesthetic that erases traditional Americana, that seeks to dethrone it, especially if it's rooted in white experience, and to turn it into corporate slop that says nothing of our history and culture.Hopefully, it is not too late for the leaders at Cracker Barrel to hit the brakes on this wildly unpopular choice, and there's still a chance to remain what people want and cherish.Because another thing wokeness tends to do is to cut us off from our past, tell us it was never any good anyway.If this is not something that Cracker Barrels execs can do, there could be one last hope for updating an iconic America logo: Replace the old man next to the barrel with Sydney Sweeney. It just might work.CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM DAVID MARCUS

A progressive House "Squad" member is attacking her own state party leadership for going back on its endorsement of a self-described democratic socialist to be mayor of Minneapolis.Rep. Ilhan Omar, D-Minn., called out the Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party (DFL), the Democrats' affiliate group in Minnesota, late on Thursday night after it revoked its endorsement of state Sen. Omar Fateh.DFL leaders cited "substantial failures" in its endorsement convention process."It is inexcusable to overturn the DFL endorsement from Omar Fateh," Omar wrote on X. "A small group, a majority living outside Minneapolis, met privately to overturn the will of Minneapolis delegates who volunteered, organized, and participated in a months-long DFL process. Unacceptable."FAR-LEFT FIREBRAND SAYS SHE 'NEVER HAD A CONCERN' ABOUT BIDEN'S MENTAL STATE AS HOUSE PROBE HEATS UPThe progressive House Democrat also led other DFL officials in a letter announcing they "strongly condemn" the move."Right now, there is a clear tension between the progressive Democrats who are challenging the status quo and moderate Democrats," Omar and other left-wing officials wrote."It is extremely disheartening that Omar Fateh, the first Black mayoral candidate to be DFL-endorsed in the last three decades, will have his endorsement revoked."Omar herself has not yet made a public endorsement in the race, which is set for November 2025.148 DEMOCRATS BACK NONCITIZEN VOTING IN DC AS GOP RAISES ALARM ABOUT FOREIGN AGENTSFateh, who described himself as a "democratic socialist" in an October 2020 interview with Jacobin Magazine, defeated several other Democrat hopefuls to clinch his state party's endorsement after a July 2025 endorsing convention.Among the primary candidates he defeated at the time was current Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, who is running for a third term.Fateh has been compared to democratic socialist New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani.But DFL Party Chairman Richard Carlbom did not mention Fateh's politics in a Thursday statement announcing the revocation of his endorsement.But Omar and state progressives have seized on the move as an example of the ongoing divisions within the Democratic Party."Chair Richard Carlbom campaigned on uniting the DFL; this decision directly runs counter to that effort, to which we are all committed. The DFL Party is a big-tent party and all factions should be fairly represented, not silenced," Omar wrote."Undoubtedly, this appalling decision will leave many voters feeling discouraged and unwelcome from participating in our party."Fox News Digital reached out to the Minnesota DFL for comment but did not hear back by press time.

More than 55 million visa holders are now under continuous vetting as the Trump administration intensifies its immigration crackdown.The State Department first confirmed the move to the Associated Press, saying the reviews aim to determine whether individuals are ineligible to enter or remain in the country. The outlet added that if violations are found, visas will be revoked and if the individual is in the U.S., he or she could be subject to deportation."The Departments continuous vetting includes all of the more than 55 million foreigners who currently hold valid U.S. visas," a State Department spokesperson told Fox News Digital.RUBIO PAUSES WORKER VISAS FOR TRUCK DRIVERS AFTER DEADLY FLORIDA CRASH INVOLVING ILLEGAL IMMIGRANT KILLS 3The spokesperson added that the department cancels visas when there are "indications of a potential ineligibility, which includes things like any indicators of overstays, criminal activity, threats to public safety, engaging in any form of terrorist activity, or providing support to a terrorist organization."The information the department is reviewing in the vetting process includes law enforcement records and "any other information that comes to light" after the visa is issued that could indicate ineligibility.RUBIOS STATE DEPARTMENT YANKS MORE THAN 6K STUDENT VISAS DUE TO ASSAULT, BURGLARY, SUPPORT FOR TERRORISM"As part of the Trump Administrations commitment to protect U.S. national security and public safety, since Inauguration Day, the State Department has revoked more than twice as many visas, including nearly four times as many student visas, as during the same time period last year," the spokesperson said.The announcement came the same day Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the U.S. would pause the issuance of worker visas for commercial truck drivers. The decision likely stems from last weeks fatal crash in Florida, which allegedly involved an illegal immigrant truck driver.BLUE STATE INVESTIGATES HOW ILLEGAL IMMIGRANT TRUCKER GOT LICENSE BEFORE DEADLY FLORIDA CRASHHarjinder Singh is accused of making an illegal U-turn on the Florida Turnpike, causing an accident that killed three people. It is unclear how he obtained his license, as he failed an English proficiency assessment and could not correctly identify several highway signs. Singh has since been charged with three counts of vehicular homicide.On Thursday, Florida Lt. Gov. Jay Collins traveled to California to take custody of Singh, who fled there after the crash. Collins vowed that Florida would hold Singh accountable and ensure justice was served.

Former Los Angeles Fire Chief Kristin Crowley has lodged a claim against the city, accusing Mayor Karen Bass of engaging in a "smear campaign" against her.Crowley "demands that Bass immediately cease and desist her defamatory and illegal public smear campaign of Crowley, retract her false statements about Crowley, and apologize for lying about Crowley," the filing obtained by Fox News Digital declares.She is seeking damages of greater than $25,000.LA MAYOR BASS DELAYS PALISADES FIRE REPORT AT DOJ'S REQUEST AMID PROBE"Kristin Crowley, a 25-year veteran of the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD), has filed a tort claim alleging that Mayor Karen Bass orchestrated a campaign of misinformation, defamation, and retaliation to protect her political image whileconcealing the extent to which she undermined public safety," the document declares.In a statement obtained by Fox News Digital, counsel to the mayor, David Michaelson, said, "We will not comment on an ongoing personnel claim. Mayor Bass is focused on the city's preparations for the hottest temperatures of the year and the potential for regional fire danger."After fires ravaged the region in California earlier this year, Bass announced that she had removed Crowley from the fire chief post.LOS ANGELES MAYOR CALLS FEDERAL AUTHORITIES SOURCE OF DISORDER AFTER ICE RAID OUTSIDE GOV. NEWSOM EVENTAt the press conference in February, the mayor said that the Fire Commission president had told Crowley to conduct an after-action report regarding the fires, but Crowley "refused." Bass also said, "We all know that a thousand firefighters that could've been on duty on the morning the fires broke were instead sent home on Chief Crowley's watch. These actions required her removal."Crowley's filing pushes back, labeling those claims as false.The former fire chief unsuccessfully appealed to the city council to reverse the mayor's move to oust her from the role."Integrity, truthfulness, and serving others before self have guided me throughout my career. As the Fire Chief, for nearly three years, I advocated for the proper funding, staffing and infrastructure upgrades to better support and protect our Firefighters, and by extension, our communities," Crowley said in a statement obtained by Fox News Digital.LOS ANGELES MAYOR BASS SAYS HELL YEAH' SHE REGRETS GHANA TRIP AFTER WILDFIRES RAVAGED CITY"The lies, deceit, exaggerations and misrepresentations need to be addressed with the only thing that can refute them - the true facts. As Firefighters, we run towards uncertainty and are willing to risk it all.Doing the right thing even when it is hard, is always the right decision and that is why I am continuing to fight for the resources our Firefighters need to keep us all safe," she noted.