The fallout over Fridays release of the Epstein files by the Justice Department continues to ripple through Capitol Hill, with some lawmakers threatening to hold Attorney General Pam Bondi in contempt for failing to meet a congressional deadline to release all the files.

The newly public documents related to the convicted sex offender include flight logs naming President Donald Trump. But many files were heavily redacted, frustrating lawmakers on both sides of the aisle. The laws co-sponsors Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., and Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky. are now threatening contempt proceedings against Bondi.

RELATED STORY | Congressmen behind Epstein files law draft articles of impeachment for AG Bondi

Bondi on Sunday defended the DOJs cooperation, saying the agency will continue working to ensure justice is served.

The Department of Justice previously stated we will bring charges against anyone involved in the trafficking and exploitation of Jeffrey Epsteins victims, Bondi said in a statement. We reaffirm this commitment, and ask any victim to please come forward with any information pertaining to any individuals who engaged in illicit activity at their expense. We have met with many victims and victims groups, and will continue to do so if more reach out.

While President Trump remains in Florida for an extended holiday, one newly released photo from the files showing a younger Trump generated questions over the weekend when the DOJ briefly removed it from its website before reposting a day later without explanation.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT | At least 16 Epstein files removed from DOJ site, including image of Trump

U.S. Rep. James Clayburn, D-S.C., voiced doubts that the redacted documents will ever be fully released.

I dont expect them to ever release the documents because I dont think the Supreme Court will ever make them do it, he said.

Former President Bill Clinton was featured prominently in the file release but his spokesperson said he is being made a scapegoat by the Justice Department. Clinton has long denied any wrongdoing. Meanwhile, U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Va., said Sunday that Clinton should address the newly uncovered photographs.

WATCH | What do we know about redactions in the Epstein files?

Gas prices in Michigan are down 12 cents from last week, hitting a new low for 2025, according to the American Automobile Association.

Michigan drivers are now paying an average of $2.73/gallon, down 43 cents from this time last month and 38 cents from this time last year.

This means for a full 15-gallon tank of gas, drivers are paying an average of $40, down $17 from last year's highest prices.

Gas prices are also down in metro Detroit, with the current average being $2.80, about six cents less than last weeks average.

Here's a look at the priciest and cheapest gas prices in the state:

Most expensive gas price averages:  Ann Arbor ($2.87), Metro Detroit ($2.80), Benton Harbor ($2.71) Least expensive gas price averages: Traverse City ($2.54), Flint ($2.60), Marquette ($2.64)

For more information on gas prices near you, click here.

As you finish up Christmas wrapping, you may also want to keep tabs on what needs to be returned after the holiday.

And as you plan your returns, keep in mind shorter holiday return windows at some retailers.

While many retailers allow shoppers to return holiday items well into January, if you miss those deadlines, you may get stuck with items you dont need.

Earlier this year, Brenda Reynolds said she was denied a return on her defective couch because she waited too long.

"They said we only had three days to report a problem. Otherwise, they could not refund or replace the couch," Reynolds said.

WATCH: Shopping experts warn of return traps:

Return policy caution: Retailers getting stingier with returns

Avoid shipping and restocking fees

In some cases, consumers may also face additional costs for returning certain items.

Douglas Bowman, professor of marketing at Emory University's Goizueta Business School, explained how holiday returns hit retailers' bottom lines.

"Direct costs that we can all sort of imagine; shipping, customer support, inspection, repackaging," Bowman said. "There's also inventory carrying costs, right? Because stuff was sitting at my home when it could be available for sale."

RELATED STORY | Holiday shopping trends reveal sharp generational divide

Most retailers offer free in-store returns, but many now charge return shipping.

Take Macy's for example. Unless you're a Star Rewards member, return shipping is $9.99.

Before you buy, in-store or online, the Better Business Bureau's Melanie McGovern suggests shoppers check a retailer's return policy closely.

"Knowing if you're going to get your money back, if there's an even exchange, if there's a restocking fee," McGovern said. "It's so important before you make that purchase, so you know you have that peace of mind when you do give that gift."

For smooth returns, follow these steps:

Include gift receipts it's not too late to request one from a retailers customer service counter  Keep items in original packaging  Don't remove tags 

Extended holiday return windows

Also, pay close attention to return windows, which vary by store. Holiday return windows for some major retailers include:

Amazon: Most items purchased Nov. 1-Dec. 31, 2025, can be returned until Jan. 31.  Best Buy: Most items purchased Oct. 31-Dec. 31, 2025, can be returned until Jan. 15.   Kohls: Most items purchased Oct. 5-Oct. 31, 2025, can be returned until Jan. 31. For items purchased after Nov. 1, the standard 90-day return window takes effect.  Macys: Most items purchased Oct. 6-Dec. 31, 2025, can be returned until Jan. 31.  Target: Most unopened items can be returned within 90 days. Target has an extended return window for electronics and entertainment products, and most Target Plus items purchased Nov. 1-Dec. 24.  Walmart: Most items purchased Oct. 1-Dec. 31, 2025, can be returned until Jan. 31. 

There are often exceptions on Apple-branded products, beauty products, furniture, mattresses and other electronics.

Loyalty programs can help ease returns.

For example, My Best Buy Plus and My Best Buy Total members get longer return windows.

Kohls shoppers who buy items with a Kohls Card have 120 days to make a return as opposed to 90 days.

Bowman said deadlines and fees have become a part of the modern shopping experience that consumers have come to expect.

"I think the overall riding thing in consumers' minds is fairness," Bowman said. "If it's a fair return policy, then absolutely I want you to stay in business. I'm willing to accept that."

McGovern recommends checking www.BBB.org or other forums for repeat complaints about returns.

"Knowing that retailer is critically important to making sure you not only get the right gift, but then you don't have to make that return," McGovern said.

Walmart shopper Scott Egan just hopes he doesn't have too many gifts to return.

"Online has been very helpful," Egan said. "The longer return periods have definitely helped as well."

Hopefully, you can avoid long return lines, so you don't waste your time or money.

_________________________________

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

__________________________________

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One man is dead after being shot and killed by his girlfriend at an Inkster apartment complex, interim Police Chief Tamika Jenkins confirmed to 7 News Detroit.

Watch Ryan's live report & see footage from the scene

Boyfriend shot & killed by girlfriend at Inkster apartment complex Boyfriend shot & killed by girlfriend at Inkster apartment complex

The shooting happened early Monday morning at The Flats on Colgate and John Daly. We're told that there was some sort of argument before the shooting, and that the boyfriend was shot and died at the hospital.

Police say that the girlfriend has since been detained.

There's no place like home for the holidays, but getting there may be a challenge. The holiday travel rush is officially underway in Michigan, and this year, it's expected to set new records.

This holiday season, AAA projects almost 4 million Michiganders will travel at least 50 miles from home. 3.5 million will be hitting the road, and almost 220,000 will fly. And things have gotten off to a frustrating start at Detroit Metro Airport; between Friday and Sunday, there were over 700 delays.

Watch Ryan's report in the video player below

Holiday travel rush underway at DTW

On Monday morning, there's a steady flow of people here inside of McNamara Terminal, making their way to check in bags or go through security.

The weather doesn't seem like it'll be quite as frightful for Christmas, but holiday travel over the next week or so may sure feel like it for some people. Travel is getting busier as Christmas quickly approaches; AAA projects that over 122 million Americans will travel at least 50 miles from home this holiday season, which is over two percent more than last year's record of just under 120 million travelers.

Cadillac Travel Group's David Fishman offered some advice for travelers.

Christmas is probably the second busiest time after Thanksgiving. So, you really need to be ready. And, cross your Ts and dot your Is," Fishman said. Get there early. Early, early, early, okay? Maybe even earlier than you normally would. If its two hours, maybe get there two-and-a-half, three hours early. Always check and see if your flights on time. Go on those apps that will alert you. Load them onto your phone.

TSA also provided some travel tips:

Don't bring a snow globe on board, because the amount of water inside likely exceeds the 3.4-ounce liquid rule Put gifts inside bags so agents can easily screen them Don't wrap presents

Anything that is fully wrapped, our officers who screen the checked baggage may need to unwrap this in the checked bagged screening as well," said Carter Langston, a TSA regional spokesperson.

Advice like that is much appreciated for Detroiter Morgan Starosciak, who's traveling to New Hampshire with her boyfriend, Bryan, to meet his family.

If you're gonna meet family for the first time, please let their not be any hiccups or delays or anything like that. Right?" I asked Morgan.

Yes, thats for sure. We wanted to get here early to make sure we were good to go," she replied.

Its a very beautiful part of the country," Bryan said. "Theres a lot of snow there, great weather, mountains. I know Michigans got a lot of landfills. But, we got some real mountains back home. So, shes very excited to see those.

AAA said average holiday tickets are nearly $900, but flying on a holiday itself either Christmas Day or New Years Day may be cheaper.

A new phishing scam is targeting people who have iPhones or use Apple Pay or Apple Cash. A woman from Southgate received a text about an Apple Pay charge she didn't make.

Watch Alicia's report in the video player below

Beware of a new scam involving text messages and Apple Pay charges

Sherri Packwood said she almost fell for the scam. She emailed our tip line tips@wxyz.com in hopes her story would help prevent others from being victimized, especially around the holidays. She received a text, reading 'your Apple ID charge of $443.74 via Apple Pay at Apple Store Orlando "FL". If you do not authorise this, then call +18054163906' and it ended with 'Apple Inc.'

What happened when she called the number?

So, a man answered the phone and he was foreign-sounding, but I could understand him clearly," Sherri said. "And he made it sound like he worked for Apple.

He wanted her to download an app called 'Connectwise Control'.

It was supposed to give him remote access to my device," Sherri told me.

If a scammer asks you to download an app, they're likely trying to install malware or gain remote access to your phone to steal your personal or financial information. Apple support will not ask you to download an app.

So, what was the moment that Sherri realized this had to be a scam?

It was after the ConnectWise didn't work, and he wanted me to then go to my Safari and open up the browser for that and then enter in a URL address," she replied.

That step also didn't work, so she bailed on the call and went to her Credit Union to make sure her account had not been compromised.

There were some red flags in the text. The number they ask you to call is not a real Apple Support Phone Number, and the number the message is coming from is random as well. Also, the state abbreviation for Florida is oddly in quotes, and the word authorize is spelled with an 's' instead of a 'z'.

Apple Support said if you get one of these texts, don't engage, don't reply, or call the number provided or click any links.

Next, report the text, take a screenshot of the message, and email it to reportphishing@apple.com. Then, verify independently by checking your Apple account yourself, by going to the wallet app in your phone, clicking on Apple Cash, and then viewing your transactions. Then, block the number on your iPhone to stop future texts from them.

If that app had worked, who knows what would have happened, what kind of compromise would have happened to my information and my accounts," Sherri said.

To verify Apple contacts or phone numbers, you can always go directly to Apple's official website or the official app for support.

Bottom line: don't trust links or numbers in texts or emails. Scammers often try to create a sense of urgency, like saying that a charge is going to go through if you don't call us right now to verify or cancel it. Again, go directly to Apple or your account if you have a question about a charge.

Where Your Voice Matters

Detroit Lions fans left Ford Field with heavy hearts Sunday after watching their team fall to the Pittsburgh Steelers in what many described as an emotional roller coaster of a game during the Lions' final home match up of the regular season.

Watch Tiarra's report, and Brad Galli's recap from Ford Field

Lions fans remain loyal despite disappointing loss to Steelers at home Lions playoff hopes smashed by Steelers

The game kept fans on the edge of their seats, especially toward the end, as they held their breath waiting to see what would happen next.

"It was a great game, sucks but it happens," said Kelsie and Greg Eichenberg, Lions fans who attended the game.

William Crawford, a Lions fan from Flint, echoed the sentiment of many in attendance.

"Tough game, tough loss, I mean just a rollercoaster of emotions," Crawford said. "I thought we had pulled that one off, but you know these penalties that they're calling."

For some fans, the loss was particularly heartbreaking. Chloe Cubert attended her first Lions game Sunday and experienced the highs and lows of being a Detroit fan.

"I'm feeling sad because it was my first one, and I'm really sad that they lost," Cubert said, though she admitted the experience was still fun.

Despite the setback, Lions fans demonstrated the resilience Detroit is known for. The crowd's energy remained strong even in defeat, with supporters chanting their commitment to the team.

"We Detroit, we're gonna keep fighting, we Detroit, that's what we do," fans could be heard saying as they left the stadium.

Robert Crawford, also from Flint, remained optimistic about the team's future.

"We'll be back. We'll be back, y'all. It ain't over," Crawford said.

Garret Harper, a Lions fan from Ann Arbor, praised both the team's effort and the city's support.

"Painful game, it was a very, very tough ending, but proud of this city, proud of everybody that showed out, showed up," Harper said.

Now all eyes turn to the Lions' upcoming Christmas game, where fans are hoping the team will bounce back with a victory.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

The Pittsburgh Steelers pushed the Detroit Lions to the brink of elimination from the playoffs on Sunday, holding on for a 29-24 win when Jared Goffs touchdown on the final play was negated by an offensive pass-interference penalty on Amon-Ra St. Brown.

Watch the postgame recap from Brad Galli

Lions playoff hopes smashed by Steelers

Goff threw a fourth-down pass to St. Brown just short of the goal line. The receiver pushed off cornerback Jalen Ramsey to get free, and before the Steelers could bring St. Brown to the ground, he threw the quarterback a lateral to set up an apparent score.

Officials huddled for some time on the field before announcing the decision to the dismay of the crowd.

Jaylen Warren had two 45-yard touchdown runs in the fourth quarter and finished with a career-high 143 yards for the Steelers, who had a 230-15 advantage in rushing yards.

The AFC North-leading Steelers (9-6) have won three straight after a midseason slump, surging into the division lead with two games remaining.

Detroit (8-7) dropped two straight games for the first time in more than three years, ending its outside shot to win a third straight NFC North title. While the Lions haven't been eliminated from the playoffs, their odds are slim.

The Lions had two touchdowns negated by penalties in the final minute. Goff threw a 1-yard touchdown pass to St. Brown with 22 seconds left, but rookie Isaac TeSlaa was called for pass interference for setting a pick that freed up his teammate.

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AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl

The U.S. Coast Guard on Sunday was pursuing another sanctioned oil tanker in the Caribbean Sea as the Trump administration appeared to be intensifying its targeting of such vessels connected to Venezuelan government.

The pursuit of the tanker, which was confirmed by a U.S. official briefed on the operation, comes after the U.S. administration announced Saturday it had seized a tanker for the second time in less than two weeks.

The official, who was not authorized to comment publicly about the ongoing operation and spoke on the condition of anonymity, said Sunday's pursuit involved a sanctioned dark fleet vessel that is part of Venezuelas illegal sanctions evasion.

The official said the vessel was flying a false flag and under a judicial seizure order.

The Coast Guards pursuit of the tanker was first reported by Reuters.

RELATED STORY | What's really behind the tension between the US and Venezuela?

Saturdays predawn seizure of a Panama-flagged vessel called Centuries targeted what the White House described as a falsely flagged vessel operating as part of the Venezuelan shadow fleet to traffic stolen oil.

The Coast Guard, with assistance from the Navy, seized a sanctioned tanker called Skipper on Dec. 10, another part of the shadow fleet of tankers that the U.S. says operates on the fringes of the law to move sanctioned cargo. It was not even flying a nations flag when it was seized by the Coast Guard.

President Donald Trump, after that first seizure, said that the U.S. would carry out a blockade of Venezuela. It all comes as Trump has ratcheted up his rhetoric toward Venezuelan President Nicols Maduro.

This past week Trump demanded that Venezuela return assets that it seized from U.S. oil companies years ago, justifying anew his announcement of a blockade against oil tankers traveling to or from the South American country that face American sanctions.

Trump cited the lost U.S. investments in Venezuela when asked about his newest tactic in a pressure campaign against Maduro, suggesting the Republican administrations moves are at least somewhat motivated by disputes over oil investments, along with accusations of drug trafficking. Some sanctioned tankers already are diverting away from Venezuela.

U.S. oil companies dominated Venezuelas petroleum industry until the countrys leaders moved to nationalize the sector, first in the 1970s and again in the 21st century under Maduro and his predecessor, Hugo Chvez. Compensation offered by Venezuela was deemed insufficient, and in 2014, an international arbitration panel ordered the countrys socialist government to pay $1.6 billion to ExxonMobil.

Maduro said in a message Sunday on Telegram that Venezuela has spent months denouncing, challenging and defeating a campaign of aggression that goes from psychological terrorism to corsairs attacking oil tankers.

He added: We are ready to accelerate the pace of our deep revolution!

RELATED STORY | Trump announces blockade of Venezuelan oil tankers

The targeting of tankers comes as Trump has ordered the Defense Department to carry out a series of attacks on vessels in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific Ocean that his administration alleges are smuggling fentanyl and other illegal drugs into the United States and beyond.

At least 104 people have been killed in 28 known strikes since early September. The strikes have faced scrutiny from U.S. lawmakers and human rights activists, who say the administration has offered scant evidence that its targets are indeed drug smugglers and that the fatal strikes amount to extrajudicial killings.

Trump has repeatedly said Maduro's days in power are numbered. White House chief of staff Susie Wiles said in an interview with Vanity Fair published last week that Trump wants to keep on blowing boats up until Maduro cries uncle.

Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Va., told NBC's Meet the Press on Sunday that Trump's use of military to mount pressure on Maduro runs contrary to Trump's pledge to keep the United States out of unnecessary wars.

Democrats have been pressing Trump to seek congressional authorization for the military action in the Caribbean.

We should be using sanctions and other tools at our disposal to punish this dictator who is violating the human rights of his civilians and has run the Venezuelan economy into the ground, Kaine said. "But Ill tell you, we should not be waging war against Venezuela. We definitely should not be waging war without a vote of Congress.

WATCH | Congress questions Hegseth on drug boat deaths as Venezuela military operations expand

At least three people were turned away from a naturalization ceremony in Indianapolis on Thursday as federal officials implement enhanced screening for applicants from what the Department of Homeland Security calls "high-risk countries."

The ceremony was expected to welcome 100 new citizens, but only 83 people took the oath of citizenship. Several reserved seats remained empty as some were denied their moment after years or decades of waiting.

"The man I saw that was turned away he was blindsided. He brought his paperwork, he showed up to take the oath and was turned away," said Kate Sweeney Bell.

One man who was turned away told the Scripps News Group in Indianapolis that he received a phone call notifying him his ceremony was canceled, but he didn't know why.

RELATED STORY | Trump expands travel ban and restrictions to include an additional 20 countries

One of those turned away was from Niger, according to Sweeney Bell, which appears on the Department of Homeland Security's list of high-risk countries.

A Homeland Security spokesman said U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has paused all adjudications for people from high-risk countries so they can be vetted and screened "to the maximum degree possible."

The agency provided the same statement when more than 30 people were turned away at a ceremony on December 9.

"The safety of the American people always comes first, and the pause will ensure additional screening for each person," the statement said.

For those who did become citizens on Thursday, the moment carried deep significance after long journeys to reach this milestone.

"My journey here started 30 years ago a lot of paperwork, a lot of specific understanding of what you have to do, effort to understanding citizenship," said Siddharth Bose, who became a U.S. citizen Thursday.

Bose reflected on what it would mean to be turned away at the final step.

"It would be incredibly hard to find out it might not happen now," Bose said.

For his family, the ceremony represented the end of a decades-long journey.

"It means the world. My family, kids and wife are here, parents are here. I've been an immigrant in two countries. It's finally great to call some place home, especially the U.S.," Bose said.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT | Trump admin lifts age limit for new ICE recruits to bolster immigration force

Another new citizen, Satnam Singh, expressed his joy at finally reaching citizenship.

"I'm really happy. Finally, I got my citizenship after a long time. I'm so happy," Singh said.

The Trump administration continues its crackdown on immigration policies.

The New York Times reports the administration wants U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services field offices to escalate litigation on denaturalization cases. President Trump has also placed entry restrictions on immigrants from 19 countries, mostly located in the Middle East and Africa.

This story was originally published by Nicole Griffin with the

Scripps News Group in Indianapolis.

WATCH | Immigrant father says family trip to FIFA match led to ICE detention

Holiday lights, international art, and a message of unity you'll find it all at Dearborn's newest winter attraction.

It's called 'Wanderlights,' and the festive new experience is lighting up Dearborn Peace Park and doing more than just making the city sparkle

Watch Faraz's story in the video player below

Wanderlights, a new festive experience, lights up Dearborn Peace Park

So Dearborn Peace Park is beginning to look and feel a lot like Christmas, so much so that the city spent more than $250,000 to make sure that city shines for everyone.

Canton resident Wayne Ten has worked in the city for nearly 30 years. He says Dearborn Wanderlights is definitely bringing an extra dose of joy.

"I love working here, I love being here, it's pretty awesome!" Wayne said. "It's very festive here."

One of the highlights of Wanderlights is a 35-foot Christmas tree. Mayor Abduallah Hammoud says the experience also features a series of interactive installations by artists from around the globe, including Lunar Lamp Posts.

"Yes, we will take it away obviously each season and bring it back. But this is one of our new Christmas trees," Mayor Hammoud said. "If you touch the pieces they all being to light up."

"I love how clean and neat everything is," Wayne said.

The mayor says this project has been a year in the making and for him, it's personal.

"This is the time within our city, the interfaith communities come together, we celebrate with one another, we break bread with one another, my father-in-law was born on Christmas. My daughter is named after the Virgin Mary. And so it is a spiritual time for so many families here in Dearborn," Mayor Hammoud said.

Wanderlights is also giving local businesses a lift.

"It's been really good business for Bayt Al Mocha, and for really everybody that's in downtown Dearborn," said Abdulrahman Mashrah, a barista.

Barista Abdulrahman Mashrah says Bayt Al Mocha opened nearly a year ago and this has been their best month yet.

"I'm sure everyone doesn't share the same religion, but at the same time we respect each other," Mashrah said.

Customer Jalil Zainuba, a Livonia resident, agrees.

"I don't celebrate the holiday myself, but it's a very joyous time of the year," Jalil said.

"When people say Dearborn is not inclusive enough, do you think Dearborn Wanderlights addresses that?" I asked the mayor and others.

"What is interesting to note is that people oftentimes who are making those remarks aren't from Dearborn," Mayor Hammoud said.

"It makes me laugh, but then I'm also sad... do you really believe that? You would know if you would live here. They are welcoming with all the holidays," Wayne said.

"This is what being religious, and being human towards each other is all about," Jalil said.

"For those who say we are not inclusive enough. I would challenge them to come on down, and point to another city that does it better or bigger than Dearborn," Mayor Hammoud said.

The family friend-experience is free. It wraps on February 20.

A top official with the Department of Justice (DOJ) is denying that there was an effort to redact any mentions of President Donald Trump in the agency's initial release of documents related to its investigation into convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

Speaking Sunday on NBC News' "Meet the Press," Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche defended the DOJ's publishing of just a fraction of the Epstein files on Friday but pledged that all material will eventually be made public. When asked by NBC's Kristin Welker if that also applied to any documents related to President Trump, Blanche said "yes."

RELATED STORY | Minimal mention of Trump in Justice Departments initial Epstein file release

"Ive said it three, four times now, weve said it before, and President Trump has said it repeatedly since before he was elected. And since he was elected, all summer long, he said the same thing, I have nothing to hide, Blanche stated.

"But, let me just make sure everybody understands something, to the extent that he is, quote, in the Epstein files, its not because he had anything to do with the horrific crimes, full stop," Blanche added. "But yes, if President Trump is mentioned, if theres photographs that we have of President Trump or anybody else, they, of course, will be released, with the exception of any victims or survivors that weve identified."

The Trump administration has faced criticism over the DOJ's initial release of the Epstein files, which were heavily redacted and offered few new revelations. The files were released under the Epstein Files Transparency Act, authored by Rep. Ro Khanna and Rep. Thomas Massie, which passed Congress nearly unanimously last month.

The law gave the DOJ 30 days to release the documents after President Trump signed it on November 19. After the initial release of files, however, Reps. Khanna and Massie said they were drafting articles of impeachment against Attorney General Pam Bondi for withholding documents past the Friday deadline.

Blanche claimed the reason for the delay was because the DOJ was still reviewing documents in order to ensure that all victims are protected.

So the same individuals that are out there complaining about the lack of documents that were produced on Friday are the same individuals who apparently dont want us to protect victims," he told NBC.

RELATED STORY | Congressmen behind Epstein files law draft articles of impeachment for AG Bondi

In one of the files that was shared by the deadline, two photos of Trump appeared inside a desk. One image appears to show him posing with Epstein accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell and two other unidentifiable people. The second showed Trump posing with a group of women.

However, just a day later, at least 16 files reportedly disappeared from the batch of documents, including one with the photos of Trump. The DOJ did not offer explanation on why the files were no longer available or whether their disappearance was intentional.

While the disappearance fueled speculation online, Trump has been named in other documents involving Epstein but has not been implicated in any crimes and denies knowing about Epsteins criminal activity. Trump and Epstein were known to share a friendly relationship in the 1990s before a falling out in the early 2000s before Epsteins first criminal investigation began in 2005.

In that case, Epstein pleaded guilty in Florida state court to soliciting prostitution and procuring a minor for prostitution. Epstein ultimately died in 2019 while awaiting trial on federal sex trafficking charges involving minors. His death was determined a suicide by federal investigators.

WATCH | A victim reacts to the newly released Epstein investigation files

An Arizona business owner is working to make Christmas brighter for thousands of children across the border in Mexico, continuing a tradition that started 25 years ago.

Janneth Cardenas, owner and founder of Bravo Services, is sorting through stacks of letters written by children living in difficult conditions in Nogales, Mexico. This year, more than 7,500 kids wrote letters to Santa and Cardenas is stepping up to answer as many of those wishes as she can.

"This room is where all the magic happens," Cardenas said, showing boxes of gifts at her business.

RELATED STORY | These are the most wanted gifts across all 50 states this holiday season

What began as a lesson of gratitude for her kids in 1999 has turned into a massive cross-border effort to help families in need, now involving partnerships with local organizations and volunteers on both sides of the border.

"It started just as a family effort. It was just us and the kids trying to make a difference. Our goal was 100 families. We thought, okay, if we could help 100 families, that would be huge. Like I thought that was a lot," Cardenas said.

In early September, volunteers and university students went into remote neighborhoods in Nogales, Mexico, to identify the families most in need, working alongside local organizations. The letters to Santa are also collected during this time through these collaborative efforts.

"To see that there are children living in landfills, that they don't know what it's like to live in a home that has a floor. There's not a ground--soil under their feet. To see that they don't have running water, that they may not have all the things that they need to live, to me is heartbreaking," Cardenas said.

The Christmas drive has grown beyond local support, with people from across the country contributing to the effort. Cardenas also thanks local businesses and influencers who are supporting the cause.

"We have such an opportunity to take a little bit of what we have and make a difference in somebody else's life. And it may mean nothing to us. It might be a tiny sacrifice for us, but it's everything to them, right," she said.

RELATED STORY | Buying gift cards this holiday? Heres how to make sure the one you give actually works

With fewer sponsors this year, they expect to fulfill about 5,000 presents. The effort relies on collaboration with Mexican organizations and support from donors nationwide.

"We've had a decline in sponsors, and I think life happens, right? There's changes in the economy, there's changes in family circumstances, and that's okay. So, at the end of the day, whether we help one child or 5,000 children, I'm really grateful for that," Cardenas said.

Cardenas says anyone wanting to help can grab a letter, buy a gift, donate food or simply wrap up the gifts.

"It plants these seeds of hope, and it gives them an opportunity to see that there's goodness in the world and that their condition and how they live doesn't define who they become," she said.

If you're interested in donating or volunteering, call 520-295-9469.

This story was originally published by Jacqueline Aguilar with the

Scripps News Group in Tucson.

WATCH | Ham over beef, and other ways to keep Christmas meal costs down

With tariffs and inflation driving up car prices, more Americans are finding they cannot keep up with their auto loan payments and repossessions are on the rise.

New data from Cox Automotive, a global automotive services and technology company, shows repossessions increased 43% over a one-year period. The company expects that trend to continue.

RELATED STORY | Auto loan delinquencies on the rise: Here's what that means for the economy

If your vehicle is repossessed, experts recommend acting quickly. Start by calling your lender to confirm the repossession and learn where your car is located. Once you have that information, you can plan your next steps.

One of those steps should include contacting your insurance provider, since coverage requirements may vary. In some states, such as Florida, you are also required by law to retrieve and surrender your license plate after a repossession.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT | Record number of people are making monthly payments of $1,000 or more for their cars

After addressing immediate concerns, finding a credit counselor may help you navigate the financial fallout. A low credit score can lead to higher auto insurance costs if you try to buy another car.

This story was originally published by Susan El Khoury with the

Scripps News Group in Tampa.

WATCH | Looking for a safe first car? Here are the top picks for teen drivers

A Livonia baker is spreading holiday cheer by opening his heart and pantry to families in need this season.

Watch Faraz's story in the video player below

Livonia baker creates free food pantry to help families struggling with SNAP benefit changes

Hassan Makki, proud owner of Sweet 220 Bakery with his wife Dalia, has created a food pantry inside his shop to help Metro Detroit families struggling after recent SNAP benefit changes.

"One of the most beautiful things about our culture is the hospitality and giving back, and I hold that with a huge sense of pride," Makki said. "I was raised by my grandparents and my parents to give back, even if we grew up with very little."

The pantry offers rice, beans, pasta, peanut butter, oats, canned goods, canned fruits and vegetables, plus fresh fruit and bread that Makki purchases himself. His mother helps by collecting food donations, and customers have also contributed supplies.

"Everything over here is free," Makki explained to visitors exploring the pantry.

Customers like Ramia Elhussaini, Teresa Morris and Jason Glaze praised the initiative during their recent visits.

"Especially with everything that's going on with the SNAP benefits, this is just a great opportunity for people to come in and grab things that they may need," Morris said.

"A lot of local places wouldn't even think about this," Glaze added.

This isn't Makki's first act of community service. In 2023, the proud Arab American from Dearborn delivered treats to line workers and first responders after power outages struck the area.

This holiday season, Makki is taking his generosity further by adopting three families to "spoil them with holiday desserts, a nice array of it." He's focusing on single mothers, families with sick children, or anyone facing struggles.

The nominations have already moved Makki to tears. One submission described a single mother who adopted three children and took guardianship of her niece due to her brother's addiction struggle. The woman lost her brother in April, and her husband lost his job earlier this year.

"I'm still grieving, and days when I can't sleep, it would be nice to have a sweet treat to brighten my mood for a moment," the nomination read. "It doesn't make anything better that Christmas is around the corner, and the kids just want a smile on their face."

Reading such stories affects Makki deeply.

"I've been through family hardship and loss, and it's hard to read them, man. Especially when you go home, you know, the heat is on, the fridge is full of food," Makki said.

The food pantry operates year-round, and Makki hopes to expand it with more essentials through community support. Families can be nominated for holiday treats through Sweet 220 Bakery's Instagram @sweet220

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

A Kremlin envoy said peace talks on a U.S.-proposed plan to end the nearly four-year war in Ukraine were pressing on constructively in Florida, while the Ukrainian president said they were moving quickly."

The talks are part of the Trump administrations monthslong push for peace that also included meetings with Ukrainian and European officials in Berlin earlier this week.

Florida talks press on

The discussions are proceeding constructively. They began earlier and will continue today, and will also continue tomorrow, Kirill Dmitriev told reporters in Miami on Saturday.

Dmitriev met with U.S. President Donald Trumps envoy Steve Witkoff and Trumps son-in-law Jared Kushner, Russian state news agency RIA Novosti reported.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT | Russian missile strike on Odesa kills 8 as US hosts a Kremlin envoy for peace talks

Zelenskyy wrote on Telegram Sunday that diplomatic efforts were moving forward quite quickly, and our team in Florida has been working with the American side. This came after Ukraines chief negotiator said Friday his delegation had completed separate meetings in the United States with American and European partners.

Trump has unleashed an extensive diplomatic push to end the war, but his efforts have run into sharply conflicting demands by Moscow and Kyiv. Russian President Vladimir Putin has recently signaled he is digging in on his maximalist demands on Ukraine, as Moscows troops inch forward on the battlefield despite huge losses.

On Friday, Putin expressed confidence that the Kremlin would achieve its military goals if Kyiv didnt agree to Russias conditions in peace talks.

Possible French-Russian talks

The French presidency on Sunday welcomed Putins willingness to speak with President Emmanuel Macron, saying it would decide how to proceed in the coming days.

As soon as the prospect of a ceasefire and peace negotiations becomes clearer, it becomes useful again to speak with Putin, Macrons office said in a statement. It is welcome that the Kremlin publicly agrees to this approach.

The statement came after reports that Putin was open to holding talks with the French president if there was mutual political will.

Macrons office said any dialogue would aim to contribute to a solid and lasting peace for Ukraine and Europe, in full transparency with President Zelenskyy and our European partners.

RELATED STORY | In annual news conference, Putin says military goals will be achieved in Ukraine

European Union leaders agreed on Friday to provide $106 billion to Ukraine to meet its military and economic needs for the next two years, although they failed to bridge differences with Belgium that would have allowed them to use frozen Russian assets to raise the funds. Instead, they were borrowed from capital markets.

Ukrainian civilians moved to Russia

In Ukraine, the countrys human rights ombudsman, Dmytro Lubinets, accused Sunday Russian forces of forcibly removing about 50 Ukrainian civilians from the Ukrainian Sumy border region to Russian territory.

Writing on Telegram, he said that Russian forces illegally detained the residents in the village of Hrabovske on Thursday, before moving them to Russia on Saturday.

Lubinets said he contacted Russias human rights commissioner, requesting information on the civilians whereabouts and conditions, and demanding their immediate return to Ukraine.

WATCH | Sniper GoProd the War Then It Followed Him Home

Coen Carr scored 16 of his 22 points in the second half to help No. 9 Michigan State hold off Oakland for a 89-80 win on Saturday.

The Spartans (11-1) have won three straight since losing their only game this season, a six-point setback to No. 3 Duke.

The Golden Grizzlies (6-7) led for much of the first half and were ahead by as much as seven points before trailing the entire second half.

Michigan State coach Tom Izzo and Oakland coach Greg Kampe, who are friends, coordinated to wear custom-made holiday sweaters. Izzo's had naughty list" on it with his likeness arguing with a referee. Kampe's had nice list on it with him bumping fists with an official.

The Spartans improved to 24-0 in the all-time series against the school in suburban Detroit, but didn't approach their average margin of victory that is nearly 20 points.

Oaklands Tuburu Naivalurua had 18 points, Ziare Wells had 17 points while Brody Robinson and Michael Houge scored 13 apiece.

Michigan State's Jaxon Kohler had 13 points and 13 rebounds for his seventh double double this season and Kur Teng scored 10 points.

The Spartans struggled beyond the arc as they have at times this year, making just 6 of 22 3-pointers. They controlled the boards as they often do, outrebounding Oakland 42-26. That helped them have a 10-point advantage on second-chance points in what proved to be the difference in the game.

Up next

Oakland: At Wright State on Dec. 29.

Michigan State: Host Cornell on Dec. 29.

___

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Israels Cabinet approved a proposal for 19 new settlements in the occupied West Bank, the far-right finance minister said on Sunday.

The settlements include two that were previously evacuated during a 2005 disengagement plan, according to Finance Minister Betzalel Smotrich, who has pushed a settlement expansion agenda in the West Bank.

It brings the total number of new settlements over the past two years to 69, Smotrich wrote on X.

The approval increases the number of settlements in the West Bank by nearly 50% during the current governments tenure, from 141 in 2022 to 210 after the current approval, according to Peace Now, an anti-settlement watchdog group. Settlements are widely considered illegal under international law.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT | Hamas confirms the death of a top commander in Gaza after Israeli strike

The approval comes as the U.S. is pushing Israel and Hamas to move ahead with the new phase of the Gaza ceasefire, which took effect Oct. 10. The U.S.-brokered plan calls for a possible pathway to a Palestinian state something the settlements are aimed at preventing.

The Cabinet decision included a retroactive legalization of some previously established settlement outposts or neighborhoods of existing settlements, and the creation of settlements on land where Palestinians were evacuated, Peace Now said.

Israel captured the West Bank, east Jerusalem and Gaza areas claimed by the Palestinians for a future state in the 1967 war. It has settled over 500,000 Jews in the West Bank, in addition to over 200,000 more in contested east Jerusalem.

Israels government is dominated by far-right proponents of the settler movement, including Smotrich and Cabinet Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, who oversees the nations police force.

RELATED STORY | Trump expands travel ban and restrictions to include an additional 20 countries

Settler expansion has been compounded by a surge of attacks against Palestinians in the West Bank in recent months.

During Octobers olive harvest, settlers across the territory launched an average of eight attacks daily, according to the United Nations humanitarian office, the most since it began collecting data in 2006. The attacks continued in November, with the U.N. recording at least 136 more by Nov. 24.

Settlers burned cars, desecrated mosques, ransacked industrial plants and destroyed cropland. Israeli authorities have done little beyond issuing occasional condemnations of the violence.

WATCH | What we know about "NILI," a secret Israeli unit targeting Hamas terrorists

Family and friends of Mucari Finley, the 29-year-old man who was fatally stabbed in Warren, gathered at the house where he was killed Saturday to honor his memory and reclaim the site where he died.

Watch Tiarra's report in the video player below

Family and friends hold vigil for Warren stabbing victim

Finley was killed on December 12 inside a home on Westminster Avenue in Warren. The person accused of killing him was arrested that day after an hours-long standoff with police.

"We felt that it was important that we as his family and his friends and his loved ones come back here to reclaim that because we don't want those events and that individual to be the person that defined who Mucari was," said Stanley Wright, Finley's father.

Wright led the vigil for his son Saturday.

"Mucari was a sweet, caring person, just all around fun, bubbly, always laughing," Wright said.

Finley was allegedly killed by 30-year-old Dominick Robinson. Robinson, who identifies as a transgender woman and also goes by "Nickyy Pop," live streamed from the crime scene during the hours-long standoff with police.

During the livestream, Robinson claimed Finley sold drugs to her boyfriend leading to his death earlier this year. However, Warren police and the Macomb County Prosecutor's Office have not confirmed those allegations.

Finley's family and friends say he wasn't into drugs and they believe he was "catfished" by Robinson.

"We're very thankful to law enforcement for taking that person alive because I definitely felt like just as Mucari didn't deserve to die, that person didn't deserve to die," Wright said.

I'm told Finley was a beloved chef and recently worked at a new restaurant in Birmingham.

"He had a lot going on for himself and it was motivational for me to do more. He was an amazing chef, always wanted more, he loved the food scene in Detroit," said Candice Wroblewski, Finley's friend.

Meanwhile, Dominick Robinson has been charged with first-degree, premeditated murder and will be back in court Tuesday.

Wright says he wants people to remember his son for who he actually was and not how he died.

"He just always made everyone laugh, he was always trying to make everyone else feel better. It was always hard to have a bad day being around Mucari," Wright said.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.