The Long Shadow of the Manoogian Mansion: Feds Target And Seize $13K Allegedly Linked To Ex-Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick
Federal agents want to take a little more than $13,000 found inside a business account after finding it had ties to former Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick, CBS News reported.
Court documents filed March 18 by federal authorities in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan highlighted details of an account at Comerica Bank holding $13,167 in funds – listed in the name of Pathfinder Consulting LLC, as nominee of Kwame Kilpatrick.
The court documents included instructions to “not distribute withholdings under further court order,” after Kilpatrick made a February 2026 agreement to pay $823,649.09 in restitution to the city of Detroit, amid already owing $155,000. Kilpatrick acknowledged that pension benefits and other forms of income would be garnished as part of his agreement.
But Kilpatrick, who was granted clemency by President Trump in January 2021, said the account is tied to his wife, LaTicia, claiming she is the resident agent of Pathfinder.
According to Deadline Detroit, the company is valued at $1 million, and the disgraced former politician owns a 5,673-square-foot home in Novi. The ex-mayor is criticizing the U.S. Attorney’s Office for involving his wife, calling the claims “deeply disturbing.”
“This Comerica business account, along with my own personal account have been points of open and honest discussions with federal authorities since December,” Kilpatrick said in a statement.
“I do not have, nor have I ever had, an account at Comerica Bank. The targeting of her business and its associated properties is unjustified, selective and deeply concerning.”
Back in December 2025, Kilpatrick claimed federal authorities froze both his personal bank accounts and LaTicia’s “independent business account.” It wasn’t until his agreement was finalized that the couple’s assets were unfrozen.
The former city leader feels the accounts being targeted have nothing to do with restitution but with something more, claiming he has been transparent the whole time and has been a pillar of the community. Documents reveal he still lives in Michigan while providing an address in the city of Northville to court officials.
“Let me be clear: this action has nothing to do with restitution, nor with any attempt to conceal assets. In fact, in my effort to be transparent and cooperative, I provided full and accurate financial disclosures. As well as living a model life, and working diligently to be a blessing to my family and community since returning from prison,” he continued in his statement.
“Equally troubling is the continued leaking of incomplete and misleading information to the press, even after direct, good-faith engagements with the U.S. Attorney’s office. Agreements have been completely disregarded, and the pattern of conduct raises serious concerns about fairness, intent, and accountability.”
Cardi B Enters Beauty Game With Grow-Good Haircare Launch
To remain accessible to her core audience, the line is currently priced at under $20 per item
After years of sharing her hair growth journey, Grammy-winning artist Cardi B has officially launched her own haircare line Grow-Good Beauty.
Grow-Good focuses on hair health and length retention and is scheduled for a digital launch on April 15.
The “WAP” rapper’s passion for haircare was first displayed in her viral “kitchen masks,” where she used natural ingredients to repair her own hair. Grow-Good Beauty aims to professionalize those DIY methods by incorporating Fiberlace, a proprietary plant-based complex engineered to fortify the hair shaft and minimize breakage, according to Beauty INC, which interviewed the rapper.
“I made Grow-Good because I really put the work in on my hair,” Cardi B said. “I was doing my own masks in my kitchen… using what I already knew from my family’s recipes. I really took my time to get my hair looking healthy again after years of damage. Now I wanna share my hair journey with everybody.”
To remain accessible to her core audience, the line is currently priced at under $20 per item. The initial “Core Collection” includes four primary systems:
The Grow-Good Beauty debut collection consists of a four-step “Core Collection” designed to bring professional-grade maintenance to an accessible price point:
Wash Cycle / Wash Cycle+ ($14.99): A duo of strengthening and clarifying shampoos engineered to clean the scalp while fortifying the hair fiber.
Soft Serve / Soft Serve+ ($14.99): Hydrating and detangling conditioners that focus on moisture retention and ease of styling.
Get Rich Mask ($19.99): The collection’s most intensive treatment, utilizing avocado and banana extracts to provide deep repair and mimic Cardi B’s signature DIY recipes.
Everything Serum ($17.99): A multi-tasking finishing product that serves as a heat protectant and a shield against environmental humidity.
Cardi B told Beauty INC she is working hard to provide a healthy foundation for diverse hair textures and spread a confidence she did not always possess.
“When I was younger, I really used to hate my hair,” she shared during a recent profile. “Now that I’m older, I grew to love it and appreciate it. I wanted to create something that helps people feel confident about their texture.”
Judge Greenlights Racial Bias Lawsuit Against McDonald’s Over ‘Angry Black Women’ Claims
Former executives Victoria Guster-Hines and Domineca Neal allege racial slurs, bias, and retaliation after raising complaints at the fast-food company.
A federal judge from Chicago gave two Black women who are former McDonald’s vice presidents the green light to move forward with claims against the fast-food giant after they accused the chain of subjecting them to racial slurs and criticism because they were Black women, and allegedly forcing them out for complaining, Reuters reported.
U.S. District Judge Mary Rowland approved the suit to move forward after the former executives, Victoria Guster-Hines and Domineca Neal, in a 2020 suit outlined that the regional president had once criticized “Black woman attitude” and described one of the plaintiffs and other employees as “angry Black women,” saying it was enough for a hostile work environment claim to move forward. “Courts confronted with accusations regarding ‘angry Black women’ have noted that this epithet carries significant harm with it,” especially when made by a supervisor, Rowland wrote.
However, the judge dismissed claims from Guster-Hines and Neal that they were passed over for a promotion within McDonald’s, saying there wasn’t enough evidence that they were the best candidates for the positions.
A Mickey D’s spokesperson seemed to be pleased with the dismissal saying, “the evidence will show the remaining claims against McDonald’s USA are without merit” but this suit adds to the lengthy list of discriminatory claims against the home of the Big Mac.
In 2025, McDonald’s settled on undisclosed terms with a former Black security executive who also claimed he was pushed out after criticizing CEO Chris Kempczinski after he allegedly blamed the parents of a girl shot in a McDonald’s drive-thru for her death via text.
Kempczinski later apologized publicly ,saying the texts “reveal my narrow worldview that I have to work hard to correct.”
Media conglomerate CEO Byron Allen launched a $110 billion suit accusing the fast-food chain of shutting Black-owned media out from a majority of the company’s advertising budget. With the terms being restricted, McDonald’s later announced it would include buying ads from Allen’s companies.
‘Don’t Call It A Comeback!’: LL Cool J Partners With Jeep Cherokee For Its 85th Anniversary
LL Cool J is the latest brand ambassador
Experienced by Kimatni D. Rawlins
If you are a hip-hop fan of LL Cool J, chances are you are familiar with the popular verse, “Don’t call it a comeback, I’ve been here for years,” from the 1991 track “Mama Said Knock You Out.” Like the Queens, New York, rapper, the automotive brand Jeep has been on the scene since 1941, and celebrates its 85th year with a reinvention of its Cherokee models—LL Cool J is the latest brand ambassador for the American-made adventure utility. The collaboration is a perfect alignment to leverage LL’s storied legacy and bring the automaker closer to urban auto enthusiasts.
With 2026 representing Jeep’s 85th Anniversary, the brand architects have reimagined both the 2026 Cherokee and the distinguished 2026 Grand Cherokee.
“I’ve been driving Jeep 4x4s for years — if you know you know,” LL Cool J stated in a press release.
“We go way back, so it’s an honor to be part of the iconic Jeep Cherokee’s return. Our bond is built on mutual respect: style, originality, and always striving for the top. Not just for ourselves, but for everyone who chooses to ride with us on this journey.”
In 1974, the Cherokee created a culture of tall wagons, which eventually evolved into 4×4 SUVs. Building on that DNA and heritage, Jeep is investing $13 billion in future products, technology, and off-roading content, including the best-selling vehicle for its parent company, Stellantis. Of course, that is none other than the Grand Cherokee, which Jeep has sold roughly 8.2 million units since its debut at the 1992 Detroit Auto Show. Yet, customers desired more. Jeep listened and obliged.
The All-New 2026 Jeep Cherokee
The confident demeanor of the new Grand Cherokee is represented by a fresh face, 37 combined mpg, 500 miles per tank of gas, and a 30% increase in cargo capacity. How impressive is that? This range is achieved through Jeep’s all-new 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder hybrid system, which features dual electric motors and standard 4WD on all trims. Moreover, the SUV features the Jeep Active Drive I 4×4 system, which incorporates rear-axle disconnect (typically used for rock climbing). But I’m curious about that, since Jeep doesn’t offer an all-terrain tire option and says that customers desired more on-road amenities. Interesting.
Jeep’s first hybrid in North America can be adjusted in various modes from the Selec-Terrain traction management system: Sand/Mud, Snow, Auto, and Sport. I enjoyed my time outside of the West Lake area of California during the national press drive. The latest Cherokee is 4.7 inches longer, 1 inch wider, 2 inches taller, and features a 6.4-inch longer wheelbase. Of course, the increased size provides better comfort for each occupant and extra space for luggage and gear. Its 210-horsepower does not sound like much, but the goal of the electrical architecture is efficiency. The all-season Pirelli Scorpion M/S tires provided the wet-road traction required for heavy rains. Though it may take drivers a while to get accustomed to the ultra-thick, octagonal steering wheel, owners will adapt quickly with daily use.
Exploratory Jeepers will be satisfied by an 8-inch ground clearance and 19.6-degree/29.4-degree approach and departure angles, respectively. But make sure you have the proper tires outfitted. The flush under-door handles are cool, the black body-clad adds ruggedness, and the eco-friendly, non-leather materials inside provide peace of mind. Jeep offers premium synthetics on the upper trims. When cruising, enjoy nature through the dual-pane sunroof and your music on Uconnect 5’s 12.3-inch infotainment screen with Alpine audio.
Built in Mexico and available in eight colors, the base model has an MSRP of $36,995, while the Jeep Cherokee Laredo costs $39,995, the Jeep Cherokee Limited costs $42,995, and the Jeep Cherokee Overland runs at $45,995. These prices include the $1,995 destination and delivery fee, which is on the higher end of industry standards.
Next-Level 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Step in the ring at the cruiserweight level with the Grand Cherokee to witness Jeep knocking out the competition. With artistic flair and a myriad of attributes, its skill set is akin to Real Deal Evander Holyfield in his prime: tough, agile, and hard-hitting. The Grand incorporates the traits of the Cherokee but takes everything up a notch.
The refreshed, unified face is defined by the traditional 7-slot grille, an adjusted headlight design, and tweaked rear and lower fascias. Jeep simplified the buying process for the Grand Cherokee lineup. The automaker used to offer 165 configurations, excluding colors, but now there are just 10, including the 3-row Grand Cherokee L and the plug-in hybrid. Punching power emanates from the formidable 2.0-liter Hurricane 4 Turbo engine, which delivers 324-horsepower and 332 pounds of torque upon impact. Produced from motorsports technology, the Grand Cherokee definitely hits when you accelerate. However, you will experience a slight bit of turbo lag. Paired to the TorqueFlight 8-speed paddle-shifting transmission, expect a 529-mile range and 6,200-pound towing capacity. Customers can choose the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 as well.
“The Jeep Grand Cherokee set the standard for SUVs and grand adventures more than 30 years ago, and it continues to drive them forward today,” said Bob Broderdorf, Jeep brand chief executive officer.
The 2026 Grand Cherokee scales to every customer’s needs, offering a blend of surprising power from the all-new Hurricane turbo-four engine, true 4×4 capability, and a suite of amenities designed to tackle both every day and extraordinary adventures for customers and their crew.”
Benevolent and harmonious, the Grand Cherokee is both capable and comforting, especially if you select the top-of-the-line Summit. If so, your Jeep will be enhanced by 21-inch rims, a contrasting black top, Palermo leather seats, a front-passenger touchscreen, a Quadra-Lift air suspension, and the astounding 19-speaker McIntosh premium audio system. Bob Marley never sounded so good. Additionally, a trio of new hues has been introduced: Steel Blue, Copper Shino, and Fathom Blue.
Including the destination charge, MSRP ranges from $40,410 for a base Laredo up to $62,190 for the Summit model. Like LL said, “Don’t you call this a regular jam, I’m gonna rock this land.” That’s exactly what the 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee was intended to do.
Tuskegee Coach To File Lawsuit After Handcuffing Incident At Morehouse
The lawsuit follows a controversial handcuffing incident involving Benjy Taylor.
Tuskegee men’s basketball coach Benjy Taylor is expected to file a lawsuit this week against Morehouse College campus police officers after he was handcuffed and removed from the court during a game earlier this year.
Taylor will meet with his legal team in Atlanta on March 20 to officially announce the filing. The lawsuit targets Morehouse College and campus police officers R. Clark and M. Roberson.
The incident occurred in a Jan. 31 Division II game between Tuskegee and Morehouse in Atlanta. Observers recorded the event, which quickly went viral on social media and sparked nationwide backlash.
“I am at a loss for words, and I am upset about how I was violated and treated today,” Taylor said at the time in a statement obtained by Sports Illustrated. “For my players, my family and people of Tuskegee to witness that is heartbreaking for me. I was simply trying to get the football team out of the handshake line as they were following right behind me and the team yelling obscenities! It was a very dangerous situation.”
According to Taylor’s attorneys, the coach approached officers after noticing what he believed was a potentially unsafe situation during the postgame handshake line. A group of Morehouse football players had entered the court and were interacting with players and family members, which attorneys say violates conference security rules.
Taylor asked officers to help clear the court and enforce the rules, but instead, one officer handcuffed him and took him away. Authorities did not charge Taylor with any crimes.
The lawsuit will be led by a team of civil rights attorneys, including Harry Daniels and John Burris, along with attorneys Gerald Griggs and Gregory Reynald Williams.
The SIAC fined Morehouse College an undisclosed amount for its role in the incident. Morehouse College President F. DuBois issued a statement that seemed to disagree with SIAC’s decision.
“While Morehouse leadership and I take the SIAC’s findings seriously, we have questions about an investigation that did not include a request for the College’s input but ultimately determined responsibility and a fine,” Morehouse College President, Dr. F. DuBois Bowman, said the statement obtained by HBCU Legends. “This falls short of the due diligence expected of a fair and comprehensive process, and we are engaging directly with the SIAC to reconsider, given the precedent such decisions set for all SIAC institutions.”
Brown also noted that Morehouse issued an apology to Taylor the night after the incident.
The group will regularly meet with JPMorgan Chase executives to discuss their financial needs and develop programs that help them. The move reflects growing competition among banks and wealth managers to serve athletes who often transition into entrepreneurship, investing, and media roles.
A study shows that nearly 65 percent of athletes report receiving no financial education during their careers. According to the National Bureau of Economic Research, approximately 16 percent of NFL players declare bankruptcy within 12 years of retiring.
“Athletes face unique challenges and opportunities. Having the right educational resources and guidance is critical to making smart decisions about money as your career evolves,” said Wade in a press release. “I’m excited to join the JPMorganChase Athlete Council and to serve as chair of this incredible group of athletes. The Council gives us the opportunity to share our experience and insights to help athletes build their financial knowledge and plan beyond their playing careers.”
Wilson, the WNBA superstar, highlighted the importance of teaching money-management skills to the next generation to break cycles of financial instability in sports.
“We’re starting to try to turn the page and help the youth in the next generation understand that you have to build trust, you have to build boundaries, and know exactly how you want to operate with your money,” Wilson told CNBC.
After his 16-year NBA career, Wade has worked on developing a diverse business portfolio that includes Wade Cellars, his wine partnership featuring a Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon and the Three by Wade collection of red, rosé, and Chenin Blanc wines. His Way of Wade basketball and lifestyle brand is available online and at 11 retail stores across China.
In 2020, Wade helped launch Budweiser Zero, the company’s first zero-alcohol beer. In 2021, he partnered with former Miami Heat teammate Udonis Haslem to launch D. Wade Burgers and UD Wings through Combo Kitchen’s ghost-kitchen platform. Through his production company, 59th & Prairie Entertainment, Wade also served as an executive producer of the Sports Emmy-nominated documentary Shot in the Dark.
Essence Fest, Aiming For A Refresh, Names Teyana Taylor Chief Curator
Taylor's creative collective, The Aunties, will collaborate closely with Essence’s programing, talent, and community teams.
Following mixed reactions to the 2025 Essence Festival, the iconic annual event is aiming to restore its reputation by appointing Teyana Taylor as its new chief curator.
The Oscar-nominated, Golden Globe-winning multi-hyphenate was named the inaugural chief curator of the Essence Festival of Culture on March 18. Her creative collective, The Aunties, will collaborate closely with Essence’s programing, talent, and community teams to curate this year’s festival in New Orleans.
Taylor’s addition to the 2026 lineup builds on what Essence Festival of Culture has branded its “Ladies First” theme, following last week’s announcement of a powerhouse, female-led roster of headliners, including Cardi B, Patti LaBelle, and Brandy and Monica.
“We said ladies first, and we meant it. Not just on the stage, but behind the scenes too,” Essencecaptioned an Instagram announcement. “We are excited to announce Teyana Taylor is stepping in as Chief Curator for the 2026 ESSENCE Festival, and you already know the vibes are about to be next level.”
Fans have voiced excitement and support, with many hopeful that Taylor will “bring the Essence Festival back to its truth and glory,” as India Arie put it.
“We counting on you Teyana,” Arie wrote.
“I hope she’s been listening cause she can turn things around for sure,” added someone else.
The announcement of headliners and Taylor’s appointment come amid reports that festival organizers owe more than $400,000—initially estimated at around $456,000—to the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center from the 2025 event, a sum that accounted for a significant share of the festival’s daytime programming costs.
On March 9, Essence Festival of Culture organizers said they had reached agreements to pay all contractors from last year’s event, after New Orleans officials warned that unpaid balances could jeopardize government incentives for the July 2026 festival. Sundial Media Group, the New York-based owner of Essence, said in a statement it had “addressed all financial issues” with festival partners and is now focused on planning this year’s event, set for July 3–5.
Mystikal Is The ‘Danger’: Rapper Pleads Guilty To Rape 20 Years After First Conviction
Tyler was initially accused of first-degree rape, simple criminal damage to property, domestic abuse battery by strangulation, simple robbery, and false imprisonment in 2022.
On March 17, New Orleans rapper Mystikal, real name Michael Tyler, pleaded guilty to third-degree rape charges.
Tyler was accused and arrested for first-degree rape, simple criminal damage to property, domestic abuse battery by strangulation, simple robbery, and false imprisonment in 2022. The crime was made public by the Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office. In August of 2022, the Sheriff’s office responded to a call at the local hospital. There, the alleged victim identified the rapper as her assailant.
Tyler was accused of choking and raping the unnamed woman after claiming she stole money from him. As a result of his suspicion, he physically assaulted the woman, stole her keys, and forced her to send him funds via Cash App. Pleading down to lesser charges will reduce the severity of his penalties, as the rapper was facing a life sentence. Though life is no longer on the table, Tyler still faces up to 25 years in prison, USA Today reported.
All Hip Hop reported on alleged details surrounding the violent sexual assault. The outlet claims that Tyler was allegedly under the influence of unspecified drugs. Furthermore, he forced the victim to pray with him to cleanse her body of any “bad spirits” before the assault. Tyler initially denied the allegations, alleging the accusation was an attempt to extort him for $1,000.
Once a successful recording artist of hit records “Shake Ya A**” and “Danger,” the 55-year-old is no stranger to serving jail time. Nor is he a stranger to sexual assault against women. The rapper has been charged with rape three times over the course of two decades. He was convicted of his first crime in 2003 and served six years in prison. The rapper also registered as a sex offender upon his release.
In 2012, Tyler was arrested and convicted of domestic abuse and served three months in jail. Though he was not convicted in 2017, he was arrested for similar crimes to the current-day rape and kidnapping. Those charges were subsequently dropped.
With Gold Teeth And A Masters Degree, This Black Scientist Is Changing The Face Of Microbiology
Jordon King lights up the Florida Everglades, saving the environment one social media post at a time.
A South Florida scientist and social media influencer turned his passion for microbiology into a flourishing online platform, breaking the mold in scientific research, reaching a new audience, and challenging conventions in the field.
Jordon King documents his learning adventures for his over 200,000 followers across various social media platforms from Everglades National Park, a key research destination in Florida. King mentions that many of his followers often comment on his appearance, which includes dreadlocks and a gold grill, styles not typically associated with people working in the industry.
“I think what makes me stand out is my personal style. Me just being myself and not conforming to the standard of a scientist, King told NBC News.
King’s research focuses on “floc” and what it can reveal about changes in the Everglades, over time, caused by human intervention, such as freshwater restoration.
“Floc is looser, and soil is more compact,” King explained to NBC News. “The floc is what helps to form the sediment, so without floc, there is no sediment, and without sediment, there are no plants because they need it to grow, and without plants, animals don’t have anything to eat, and then the ecosystem becomes a whole mess,” King said.
Completed 2 long years of research in the Everglades while being in grad school and it was a journey. My research was focused on flocculent organic matter (like soil, but looser) and I experienced and learned so much along the way. I even published a paper about my research. Now that grad school is over, what’s next ? #biologist#researchscientist#biology#gradschool#stem
His self-directed research earned him a master’s degree from Florida International University. The 23-year-old said he contacted 40 professors, but only two responded, with one of them helping him start his research journey. King says he decided to share his academic research on social media and in schools to raise awareness and inspire others to pursue environmental sciences.
“It feels so good to not only talk to our future generation, but also inspire them using my career in environmental science. As a scientist, I feel like it is my duty to do this. This was definitely a surreal moment for me and I hope to visit more schools in the near future,” King said in a social media post highlighting his visit to a South Florida elementary school. Along with teaching others about microbiology, King also uses his platform to share stories of other Black microbiologists, who make up less than 3% of scientists in the field.
The Raid, The Remix, And The Reckoning: Afroman Wins Legal Victory Against Ohio Police
Afroman successfully defeated an Ohio police defamation lawsuit after officers raided his home, seized his money, and even eyeing his lemon pound cake.
On March 18, Grammy-nominated rapper Afroman won a defamation lawsuit brought by seven Ohio deputies over music videos that used home security footage to mock a 2022 raid on his home, CBS News reported. The raid, conducted by the Adams County Sheriff’s Office, was tied to drug trafficking and kidnapping allegations, though no charges were ever filed.
Officers seized thousands in cash, electronics, and other items, with Afroman saying only $4,600 was returned, fueling his claims that police took his property. He later used the footage to criticize the raid, prompting deputies to sue for defamation and invasion of privacy, a case he ultimately won.
“It’s not only for artists. It’s for Americans,” Afroman said after winning the case. “We have freedom of speech. They … did me wrong and sued me because I was talking about it.”
“It’s for the people, by the people,” he added. “So when the people can’t use their freedom of speech, bring up the problem, address the problem, take care of the problem, then the problem never gets solved.”
The case tested the boundaries of parody and how far artists can go in criticizing public officials, with deputies seeking nearly $4 million in damages.
“No reasonable person would expect a police officer not to be criticized,” defense attorney David Osborne argued, noting officers have long been the subject of public scrutiny.
The Adams County Sheriff’s Office deputies claimed they faced harassment after the music videos received more than 3 million views on YouTube and went viral. The clips show officers breaking down Afroman’s door, searching his belongings, and eyeing a cake in his kitchen, which inspired his song “Lemon Pound Cake.”
In his testimony, Afroman, who lives in Winchester, about 50 miles outside Cincinnati, said he had every right to share his experience with fans and friends. He added that the raid left his children, then 10 and 12, traumatized. His attorney argued in closing that exaggeration is common in artistic expression, especially when used for social commentary.
“The whole raid was a mistake. All of this is their fault. If they hadn’t have wrongly raided my house, there would be no lawsuit. I would not know their names,” Afroman said. “They wouldn’t be on my home surveillance system, and there would be no songs, nothing.”
