American Scene

CALIFORNIA

Police: Woman cut off husband’s penis

GARDEN GROVE — A Southern California woman drugged her estranged husband, tied him to a bed, cut off his penis with a knife and threw it down a garbage disposal, police say.

Garden Grove policeLt. Jeff Nightengale told City News Service that the attack occurred Monday night. He said Catherine Kieu Becker, 48, was booked at the Orange County Jail for investigation of aggravated mayhem, false imprisonment, assault with a deadly weapon, administering a drug with intent to commit a felony, poisoning and spousal abuse.

The 51-year-old victim’s name was not released but Lt. Nightengale said he was in serious condition after surgery at a hospital.

FLORIDA

Casey Anthony’s mother could face perjury charges

ORLANDO — A sheriff says Casey Anthony’s mother could face perjury charges for her testimony during her daughter’s murder trial.

Orange County Sheriff Jerry Demings said Tuesday that there have been discussions with prosecutors about filing perjury charges against Cindy Anthony and that a decision could come soon.

The sheriff spoke to reporters along with other officials who investigated the disappearance and death of 2-year-old Caylee Anthony in 2008.

A jury last week found Miss Anthony, 25, not guilty of murder in her daughter’s death. She was found guilty on four charges of lying to law enforcement officers and is to be released from the Orange County Jail on Sunday.

KANSAS

Abortion-rights activist plans to open clinic

WICHITA — A woman who once ran the political action committee for slain abortion provider Dr. George Tiller is raising funds to open a clinic in Wichita, where he was murdered.

Julie Burkhart said the lobbying group she now leads, Trust Women, hopes to open a clinic offering first-trimester abortions and other women’s health services in the city in about a year. The group is trying to recruit a qualified doctor.

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