RFK’s son acquitted in hospital incident
Douglas Kennedy, a son of the late Sen. Robert F. Kennedy, was acquitted Tuesday of child endangerment and harassment charges stemming from a scuffle in a hospital maternity ward.
Kennedy had tried in January to take his newborn son from Northern Westchester Hospital in Mount Kisco, N.Y. He said he just wanted the 2-day-old boy, Anthony Boru Kennedy, to get some fresh air.
However, several nurses objected, saying his request would violate hospital policy. Kennedy tried to leave anyway, and two nurses claimed he hurt them as they blocked his way.
Mount Kisco Town Judge John Donohue ruled that Kennedy broke no laws. Kennedy’s lawyer, Robert Gottlieb, said Kennedy and his wife, Molly, “are thrilled that this nightmare has finally come to an end.”
ABC sitcom star to stay in sister’s care
A judge determined Tuesday that teen actress Ariel Winter’s mother should not regain custody of the “Modern Family” star and that the 14-year-old should remain in sister Shanelle Gray’s care for the next several weeks.
Superior Court Judge Michael Levanas issued the ruling after considering a report by child protective investigators that was critical of Winter’s mother, Chrisoula Workman.
The report found there was evidence of emotional abuse toward Winter, Levanas said.
The ruling came more than six weeks after Workman was temporarily stripped of custody amid allegations she had been physically and emotionally abusive to Winter.
The judge set a Dec. 12 trial date to determine whether Winter should be placed in a permanent guardianship.
Apple postpones tour to be with dog
Fiona Apple is postponing her South American tour to be with her dying dog, Janet.
Apple says in a heartfelt, handwritten letter to fans posted on her website and Facebook page Tuesday that the nearly 14-year-old pit bull is her best friend, mother, daughter and benefactor and “the one who taught me what love is.” Apple says Janet suffers from Addison’s disease and is near death.
The singer writes, “I will not be the woman who puts her career ahead of love and friendship,” and asks her fans for their blessings and patience.
The birthday bunch
Actress Marlo Thomas is 75. Dr. John is 72. Actor-director Harold Ramis is 68. Actress Goldie Hawn is 67. Singer Livingston Taylor is 62. Christian singer Steven Curtis Chapman is 50. Singer Bjork is 47. Football player-turned-TV host Michael Strahan (“Live With Kelly and Michael”) is 41. Actress Jena Malone is 28. Singer Carly Rae Jepsen is 27.