Ecuador frees hostages, finds escapees after drug gang mayhem in prisons
Authorities in Ecuador say 8 "terrorists" killed, 27 escapees captured after "war" with drug gangs erupts in deadly mayhem at nation's prisons.
Drug Trafficking
Jelly Roll speaks at Senate fentanyl hearing
Country music artist Jelly Roll told lawmakers Thursday he "wants to be a part of the solution" to the fentanyl crisis plaguing the U.S. During opening remarks at a Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee hearing, Jelly Roll, whose real name is Jason DeFord, pleaded for legislation to help prevent further deaths caused by fentanyl production and trafficking.
FDA warns about Ozempic counterfeits, seizes thousands of fake drugs
The FDA and drugmaker Novo Nordisk are working to identify thousands of counterfeit Ozempic drugs seized in an ongoing investigation.
Biden to meet with Mexican president
President Biden will meet with Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador Friday at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit, where the two are set to discuss migration, fentanyl trafficking and a host of other issues. CBS News White House reporter Bo Erickson has more.
24 killed, including at least 12 police officers, in attacks in Mexico
Violence that broke out Monday in the Mexican states of Guerrero and Michoacan was the latest to hit regions plagued by drug trafficking.
Feds: Man carried 40 pounds of fentanyl on subway
A suspect accused of running a drug mill out of a Bronx apartment was arrested Tuesday after authorities said he rode on the New York City subway with 40 pounds of fentanyl. Lilia Luciano has more.
6,000 prison sentences hinge on Supreme Court's interpretation of "and"
Nearly 6,000 people convicted of drug trafficking in the 2021 budget year alone are in the pool of those who might be eligible for reduced sentences, according to data.
Mexican drug cartels get Americans to smuggle weapons across border
"We have allowed the cartels to amass an army," a former ATF senior special agent told CBS News.
Singapore hangs woman for trafficking 1 ounce of heroin
The Central Narcotics Bureau said the amount was "sufficient to feed the addiction of about 370 abusers for a week."
U.S. offers $5M reward for fugitive who sold encrypted phones to traffickers
Maximilian Rivkin has escaped arrest since the 2021 takedown of the ANOM network, which saw 800 arrested on three continents.
Rapper Fetty Wap sentenced to 6 years in prison for drug trafficking charges
The rapper was one of six defendants involved in a conspiracy that distributed over 100 kilograms of illicit drugs.
Italian police dog sniffs out 3 tons of cocaine hidden in banana shipment
Most of the drug trade in Italy, and much of Europe, is dominated by the 'Ndrangheta crime group, a highly sophisticated global network dealing in international narcotics that operates in 40 countries.
Largest-ever "narco sub" found off Colombia
The largest-ever Colombian "narco sub" was intercepted in the Pacific Ocean, with 3 tons of cocaine found on board, authorities say.
DEA employs new strategy in fentanyl fight
The Drug Enforcement Administration is using a new method in its fight against fentanyl by targeting the entire trafficking network. Nancy Cordes has details.
Brothers get prison for trying to traffic $100 million of cocaine on "low-profile" boats
Low-profile vessels are often used in drug smuggling schemes because their construction helps the boats remain out of sight in the water.
1,000 pounds of illegally caught sharks seized by Coast Guard
Video taken by the U.S. Coast Guard aircrew shows the four fishermen wearing fluorescent green waders pulling sharks from the side of their white boat.
Malaysia to end all mandatory death sentencing for serious crimes
Executions have already been on hold in the country since 2018, and rights groups say the latest "important step" could reverberate across the wider region.
Combating narco-subs and trafficking
After two suspected "narco-subs" were found by law enforcement officials, new questions have been raised about how submarines are being used to transport drugs from country and country. Derek Maltz, former director of the Drug Enforcement Administration's special operations division, joins "CBS News Mornings" to discuss.
Texas UPS workers charged with trafficking cocaine
Two UPS employees were arrested alongside three others for allegedly trafficking cocaine through packages, prosecutors said.
Hells Angels go on trial over alleged organized crime ring in Spain
Former motorcycle club leader Frank Hanebuth is being tried alongside 49 alleged international collaborators facing up to 38 years in prison.
Mexico arrests a son of "El Chapo"
Mexican security forces captured Ovidio Guzmán, one of the sons of former Sinaloa cartel boss Joaquín "El Chapo" Guzmán. Just like his father, he is an alleged drug trafficker who was wanted by the United States. Errol Barnett has more.
Suspect arrested in murder of prosecutor shot dead on honeymoon
"We rented a jet ski, we went to Baru beach and we executed" the crime, one of two alleged hitmen is seen telling interrogators.
DEA cracks down on social media fentanyl sales
Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco, who oversees the Drug Enforcement Administration, says fentanyl is the agency's top priority as tens of thousands of Americans die from the drug. She's calling on social media companies to crack down on sales through their platforms. Norah O'Donnell reports.
Drug traffickers using makeshift submarines to transport cocaine
Drug traffickers are using makeshift submarines to transport millions of dollars worth of cocaine to the U.S. Carter Evans spent time with the U.S. Coast Guard working to stop the flow of drugs off the coast of San Diego.
Scientists still identifying 9/11 victims' remains, giving answers to loved ones
The New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner has pledged to continue efforts to identify 9/11 victims' remains for as long as there are families looking for answers.
Biden OKs Ukraine's use of U.S.-provided weapons inside Russian territory
The easing of restrictions would allow Kyiv to use the Army Tactical Missile System, or ATACMS, to hit targets inside Russia.
"Everything as it was": Explore the bedrooms of kids killed in school shootings
The families of eight school shooting victims opened their doors to Steve Hartman and photographer Lou Bopp, allowing them to document their children's bedrooms.
Hegseth paid accuser but denies wrongdoing, attorney says
Trump has indicated that the revelations about the accuser and payment have not deterred him from Hegseth's selection as defense secretary.
Biden becomes first sitting U.S. president to visit Amazon rainforest
Mr. Biden has made addressing climate change a key part of his policy agenda.
Trump's controversial Cabinet and senior staff picks face uncertain future
President-elect Donald Trump's Cabinet and senior staff picks are facing an uncertain future as his selections received mixed reviews in recent days — and a handful sent shockwaves through Washington.
Bill Clinton on moving forward, urging citizens to "stand up for what we think is right"
The former president proudly wears the title of "citizen," which is also the title of his new book, "Citizen: My Life After the White House." He talks about making a difference outside of elected office, and the prospects of a second Trump administration.
Cher opens up about life with Sonny
With the release of part one of her new memoir, Cher talks about her relationship - on stage and off - with Sonny Bono, and why their TV partnership survived beyond their marriage.
Ohio governor, other leaders condemn neo-Nazi march in Columbus
Video showed nearly a dozen people wearing black pants, shirts and head coverings and red masks covering their mouths marching down the street. Three of the people were carrying black flags with red swastikas.
U.S.
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Hegseth paid accuser but denies wrongdoing, attorney says
Trump has indicated that the revelations about the accuser and payment have not deterred him from Hegseth's selection as defense secretary.
San Diego, Tijuana Youth symphonies unite for historic cross-border performance
The performance was part of an effort to bridge communities through creativity and innovation during this year's "World Design Capital" designation.
Organic carrots recalled after E. coli outbreak. These are the brands impacted.
Grimmway Farms, which made and packaged the organic carrots, issued the recall on Saturday after nearly 40 cases were recorded in 18 states.
Trump's controversial Cabinet and senior staff picks face uncertain future
President-elect Donald Trump's Cabinet and senior staff picks are facing an uncertain future as his selections received mixed reviews in recent days — and a handful sent shockwaves through Washington.
Full transcript of "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," Nov. 17, 2024
On this "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" broadcast, Sue Gordon and Dr. Deborah Birx join Margaret Brennan.
MoneyWatch
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Organic carrots recalled after E. coli outbreak. These are the brands impacted.
Grimmway Farms, which made and packaged the organic carrots, issued the recall on Saturday after nearly 40 cases were recorded in 18 states.
Trump's win could sharply raise the cost of electric vehicles. Here's why.
Americans looking to purchase EVs may want to do so quickly, as the incoming administration is likely to axe a $7,500 tax credit.
Social Security bill to expand benefits is in the hands of the Senate
The Social Security Fairness Act, which would increase benefits for 2.8 million retirees, has bipartisan support but time running out.
How much money did Mike Tyson and Jake Paul make for their big fight?
Mike Tyson, a boxing legend, and Jake Paul, a social media legend, threw down Friday in Dallas. Financially, they both came out winners.
Some U.S. women are being asked to prepay for their baby
Pregnant women say health care providers are billing them to deliver their babies earlier than expected. Patient advocates say that's unethical.
Politics
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Hegseth paid accuser but denies wrongdoing, attorney says
Trump has indicated that the revelations about the accuser and payment have not deterred him from Hegseth's selection as defense secretary.
Trump's controversial Cabinet and senior staff picks face uncertain future
President-elect Donald Trump's Cabinet and senior staff picks are facing an uncertain future as his selections received mixed reviews in recent days — and a handful sent shockwaves through Washington.
Birx says she is "excited" for data-driven discussions in RFK Jr.'s confirmation hearings
Dr. Deborah Birx, former White House Coronavirus response coordinator, said Sunday she is "excited" for the data on key health issues that will surface in Senate confirmation hearings for Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.
Full transcript of "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," Nov. 17, 2024
On this "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" broadcast, Sue Gordon and Dr. Deborah Birx join Margaret Brennan.
Transcript: Sue Gordon on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," Nov. 17, 2024
The following is a transcript of an interview with Sue Gordon, principal deputy director of National Intelligence in the first Trump administration, on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" that aired on Nov. 17, 2024.
HealthWatch
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Combating Parkinson's with rock climbing
There is currently no cure for Parkinson's Disease. But some with Parkinson's are finding that an unusual therapy – rock climbing – is helping them improve their balance, mobility, strength and cognition.
Woman in Idaho abortion ban case shares her story
Kayla Smith, one of the plaintiffs in a lawsuit against Idaho's restrictive abortion ban, tells Nicole Valdez about "the most traumatic experience" of her life. She and five other women are suing the state to clarify and expand abortion exceptions.
U.S. health officials report 1st case of new form of mpox in a traveler
The person had traveled to eastern Africa and was treated in Northern California upon return, according to the California Department of Public Health.
This mom moved 9,000 miles seeking medical treatment for her son
A mother and son flew 9,000 miles to seek care for his spinal condition after they'd exhausted options in their home country.
What to know about RFK Jr.'s stances on key health issues
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Trump's pick to lead the Department of Health and Human Services, has raised controversy on topics ranging from vaccines to fluoride to food.
World
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Biden OKs Ukraine's use of U.S.-provided weapons inside Russian territory
The easing of restrictions would allow Kyiv to use the Army Tactical Missile System, or ATACMS, to hit targets inside Russia.
Sara becomes tropical depression after landfall in Belize
Tropical Storm Sara made landfall near Dangriga, about 55 miles southeast of the capital Belmopan, the Miami-based National Hurricane Center said.
Gold watch gifted to Titanic hero sold for record price
The 18-carat Tiffany & Co. watch was given by three women survivors to Capt. Arthur Rostron for diverting his passenger ship, the RMS Carpathia, to save them and others after the Titanic struck an iceberg and sank in the north Atlantic.
Hezbollah spokesman killed in Israeli airstrike in Beirut, official says
The Hezbollah militant group has a strong presence in central Beirut, known as the Dahiyeh, and the strikes came as Lebanese officials are considering a U.S.-brokered cease-fire proposal.
Russia launches massive attack at Ukraine's infrastructure
The attack came as fears are mounting about Moscow's intentions to devastate Ukraine's power generation capacity ahead of the cold winter.
Entertainment
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Cher opens up about life with Sonny
With the release of part one of her new memoir, Cher talks about her relationship - on stage and off - with Sonny Bono, and why their TV partnership survived beyond their marriage.
Cher opens up about life with Sonny
It took forever for Cher to write her story, but this week, her memoir (that is, "Part One" of her memoir) is being released. She talks with correspondent Anthony Mason about her relationship, on stage and off, with Sonny Bono; the shocking truth she learned about "Cher Enterprises"; and why Sonny & Cher's TV partnership survived beyond their marriage.
Extended interview: Cher
In this web exclusive, correspondent Anthony Mason sits down with the singer Cher to talk about her new book, "Cher: The Memoir – Part One," which explores the "crazy ride" of her childhood. She also discusses her relationship with Sonny Bono, and why their extraordinarily successful musical duo, Sonny & Cher, survived the breakup of their marriage.
"Gladiator II" star Paul Mescal on his relationship with fame
He's earned critical acclaim and award nominations for performances in "Aftersun" and "Normal People." Now, Irish actor Paul Mescal, who's become a Gen Z heartthrob, is front-and-center of Ridley Scott's epic "Gladiator II."
"Gladiator II" star Paul Mescal
Paul Mescal has earned critical acclaim and award nominations for his performances in "Aftersun" and the TV series "Normal People." Now, the Irish actor who's become a Gen Z heartthrob is front-and-center of "Gladiator II," Ridley Scott's sequel to his Oscar-winning 2000 epic of ancient Rome. Mescal talks with correspondent Seth Doane about acting alongside such icons as Denzel Washington; and what he first felt on stage in a high school production of "The Phantom of the Opera."
Technology
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Technology
How this new car runs without gas or electricity
As climate change intensifies, the race for a more eco-friendly car has revved up. Itay Hod reports on the newest twist on travel.
"Human … Please die": Chatbot responds with threatening message
In an online conversation about aging adults, Google's Gemini AI chatbot responded with a threatening message, telling the user to "please die."
How AI powered robots are helping small farms
From labor shortages to environmental impacts, farmers are looking to AI to help revolutionize the agriculture industry. One California startup, Farm-ng, is tapping into the power of AI and robotics to perform a wide range of tasks, including seeding, weeding and harvesting.
Meta facing courtroom battle
On Wednesday, a judge allowed a Federal Trade Commission lawsuit to move forward that accuses Meta of creating an illegal monopoly with Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp. CBS News MoneyWatch correspondent Kelly O'Grady explains.
The Guardian to stop posting on X, calling it "a toxic media platform"
The Guardian says benefits of being on Elon Musk's social media platform X are outweighed by its "often disturbing content."
Science
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Science
How climate change impacts the economy
2024 is on pace to be the hottest year on record worldwide. CBS News Los Angeles meteorologist and climatologist Marina Jurica reports that extreme weather events cost the global economy over $2 trillion in the last 10 years.
Scientists say biggest coral in the world discovered in the Pacific
Scientists say they've discovered a "mega coral" three times bigger than the previous record holder - so huge they initially thought it was a shipwreck.
Surfboards with lights could deter shark attacks: "Invisibility cloak"
Seal-shaped boards decked with bright horizontal lights were less likely to be attacked by great white sharks, researchers found.
Trump officials likely to reverse drilling waste "methane fee" EPA is imposing
Oil and natural gas companies will have to pay a federal fee if they emit methane above certain levels under a rule being finalized by the Biden administration that incoming Trump officials are likely to reverse.
Site of ancient, key battle in Iraq found using spy satellite images
1970s-era U.S. spy satellite imagery has led archeologists to what they believe is the site of a seventh-century battle that was decisive in the spread of Islam in the region.
Crime
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Calvin Klein model charged with murder in NYC stabbing death
Dynus Saxon was arraigned in Bronx criminal court in connection with the Nov. 10 killing of Kadeem Grant, the DA said.
Ex-boyfriend and fiancée behind fatal stabbing, shooting of Texas mom
What appeared to be an open-and-shut case for Texas investigators turned out to be a twisted murder plot involving victim Alyssa Beard's ex-boyfriend Andrew Beard and his fiancée Holly Elkins – who detectives say was the mastermind.
Photos key in family's quest to prove daughter's death was a homicide
After authorities ruled Megan Parra took her own life, her family would spend years investigating her death, recruiting two retired FBI agents and convincing local and state officials to take a second look at the case.
Texas mom's killer received text before murder: "I hope you handle it"
After Alyssa Burkett was murdered, detectives quickly learned that the prime suspect was the father of her child, Andrew Beard. But as the investigation unfolded, they would find out that Beard wasn't the only one involved in the murder plot.
Opening statements heard in Laken Riley trial
A Georgia jury heard opening statements Friday in the trial of the man accused of killing nursing student Laken Riley. Jose Ibarra is charged with killing the 22-year-old in February. CBS News senior national correspondent Mark Strassmann reports.
Space
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Far side of the moon once had erupting volcanoes, lunar soil shows
Researchers analyzed lunar soil brought back by China's Chang'e-6, the first spacecraft to return with a haul of rocks and dirt from the little-explored far side.
When you can see the Beaver Moon, 2024's final supermoon
November's full moon, known as the Beaver Moon, is the last supermoon of 2024. Here's when it peaks and why it's called the Beaver Moon.
Astronauts decline to answer questions about post-flight medical issue
Medical issues aside, the astronauts described a water leak in June that triggered a blizzard in the International Space Station's airlock.
Cargo ship brings science gear, holiday treats to space station crew
With an Election Day docking, the cargo ship delivered 3 tons of supplies and equipment, including an unusual wooden satellite.
The Taurid meteor showers will peak a week apart in November
Two sister meteor showers are already flashing across night skies — and will peak a week apart.
Latest Galleries
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Notable Deaths in 2024
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
Serial killer Rodney Alcala's secret photos
See some of convicted serial killer Rodney Alcala's photographs that were discovered by detectives in a Seattle storage locker.
The troubled marriage of Ashley and Doug Benefield
The seesaw marriage between the former ballerina and her much older husband only lasted four years, until she shot him on Sept. 27, 2020.
Evidence in "The Dexter Killer" case
A look at the evidence in "The Dexter Killer" case; plus, newly revealed letters from the man police say wanted to be like fictional serial killer Dexter Morgan.
Summer music heats up 2024
Live performances are in full swing this summer. Scroll through our concert gallery, featuring pictures by CBS News photojournalist Jake Barlow and photographers Ed Spinelli and Kirstine Walton.
Latest CBS News Videos
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Latest CBS News Videos
11/17: The Takeout: Vermont Sen. Peter Welch
Sen. Peter Welch, a Democrat from Vermont, reflects on the 2024 election with Major Garrett, talks about Donald Trump's Cabinet selections, and looks ahead to how Democrats can navigate the next two years of full GOP control in Washington.
U.S., Mexican youth symphonies perform together
Two youth symphonies, one from San Diego and the other from Tijuana, joined forces over the weekend for a performance in California. Andres Gutierrez has the story behind the show.
Notre Dame set to reopen after fire
Paris' Notre Dame Cathedral is set to reopen more than five years after a devastating fire almost destroyed the iconic landmark. Elaine Cobbe takes a look at the restoration process.
Trump's possible impact on EV sales
Electric vehicle sales hit an all-time high this summer, but some worry the incoming Trump administration could put a dent in sales. Ryan Yamamoto explains why.
Gymnastics coach Béla Károlyi dies at age 82
Béla Károlyi, who coached the U.S. women's gymnastics team to its first Olympic gold medal, has died at age 82. Shanelle Kaul looks back at his life and controversial legacy.