Spokane Man Sentenced to 30 Years for Sex Trafficking, Drug Trafficking, and Firearms Offenses
James Anthony Stinson, 55, received a 30-year federal prison sentence for multiple felony convictions.
Gonzaga holds off Kennesaw State in March Madness thriller
Sounders host Whitecaps in Concacaf Champions Cup clash
Weather
Crews Work to Restore Power After Windstorm Hits Eastern Washington and North Idaho
Avista says over 61,000 customers initially lost power, with 8,495 still without as of Friday morning.

Avista Responds to Widespread Power Outages After Windstorm
Utility crews work around the clock to restore electricity to thousands of customers across the region.
Spokane Firefighters Quickly Contain Accidental Kitchen Blaze
No injuries reported after fire at Ferris Garden Court Condominiums
Lifestyle
Spokane Reports Decreased Homelessness, More Stable Housing
2025 data shows reduced need for homeless services, increase in permanent housing

Spokane's New LGBTQ Shelter Reshapes North Hill Neighborhood
The Aurora Center offers a low-barrier, affirming space for unhoused LGBTQ neighbors in Spokane's scattered-site shelter model.
Fargo Native Donates to Gonzaga Law School
Center renamed in honor of Chris and Nan Kennelly's philanthropic gift.
Crime
Clemency Board Recommends Commutation for Spokane Man Convicted in 1996 Murder
The final decision on whether to commute the sentence now rests with the governor.

U.S. Marshals Arrest Spokane Valley Fugitive Wanted on Child Molestation Charges
Jaime Balderas was taken into custody without incident near Park Road and East Valleyway Avenue.
Second Spokane Man Sentenced to 20 Years for Fentanyl Pill Press Operation
Nicholas Adams received 20 years in federal prison for running a commercial fentanyl pill manufacturing operation in his home.
Politics
Capitol Credentialing Debate Continues in Washington State
Lawsuit over media access to state legislature remains unresolved

Hundreds of VA Therapists Quit Over Trump Policies, Leaving Veterans in Crisis
Mental health care access for veterans has become increasingly difficult as the VA loses hundreds of psychologists and social workers.
Spokane City Council Votes to Move Regular Meetings to Wednesdays
The council also proposes new public testimony rules, sparking debate over access and tradition.
Sports
Gonzaga, Kennesaw State Endure Adversity on January 15
Both teams faced unexpected challenges as they prepared to face off on the court.

Gonzaga's Braden Huff Ruled Out for NCAA Tournament Opener
Huff has been sidelined since January with a dislocated kneecap, but could return later in the tournament if Gonzaga advances.
Gonzaga Bulldogs Poised to Win 2026 NCAA Tournament
Elite defense, ball security, and star player Graham Ike make Gonzaga the team to beat.