Helix High School Use of Force
The Story
La Mesa police officer Scott Wulfing has been reassigned following a violent confrontation at Helix High School. The officer is seen throwing a female student to the ground in video that was circulated on social media. This week, students held walkout demonstrations and rallied with community leaders to demand changes to how police are trained to de-escalate combative situations.
The Discussion
What led up to the incident between the student and the police officer?
What is the police department’s process for investigating this incident?
How does this situation compare to other local cases of police brutality and use of force in recent years?
RELATED: La Mesa Police Officer Shown Body Slamming Teenage Girl In Facebook Video Is Reassigned
Dumanis Campaign Straw Donations
The Story
A KPBS review of campaign disclosures and other related documents revealed more money that can be traced back to convicted Mexican businessman José Susumo Azano Matsura. Azura is currently serving a prison sentence for campaign finance crimes. Former San Diego District Attorney Bonnie Dumanis is among the candidates who received money from Azano. In 2014, Dumanis said she would give $10,000 of that money to charity. The recent KPBS review found nearly double that amount in donations from straw donors with connections to Azano.
The Discussion
How did the Dumanis campaign respond when asked about the KPBS review?
How did Nathan Fletcher, who is also running for county supervisor, benefit from straw donations?
What are the legal obligations and ethical considerations when it comes to returning money from straw donations?
RELATED: Mexican Billionaire-Linked Donations To Dumanis’ 2012 Mayoral Campaign Higher Than Thought
Tijuana’s Condo Craze
The Story
Tijuana is in the midst of a housing boom that continues into 2018. A major trend can be found in the construction of high-end condo buildings. The purchase price for new units are much more affordable than what can be found in San Diego. However, these projects are marketed to affluent Mexicans, not American shoppers. Despite a recent surge in homicides, the real estate business in Tijuana shows no sign of slowing down.
The Discussion
How much more can you get for your money in Tijuana?
Who is the typical American Tijuana condo buyer?
How is this trend impacting population density and the Tijuana skyline?
