Federal officials have debunked what initially appeared to be a local connection to the recently released Jeffrey Epstein files.

The U.S. Department of Justice says a postcard believed to have been written by Epstein to former Michigan State University gymnastics doctor Larry Nassar was a fake. The postcard, which surfaced as part of renewed attention on Epstein-related documents, was reportedly sent just three days after Epstein’s death in 2019 and received by a prison facility in Virginia. The FBI flagged the letter at the time, and officials now confirm it was not authentic.

The fake letter included disturbing language, including a claim that former President Donald Trump “loved young girls.” Nassar, who is currently serving a lengthy prison sentence, was convicted several years ago for sexually abusing hundreds of female gymnasts.

 

Forecasters are warning residents in the Lansing area to prepare for a significant winter weather event. Freezing rain is expected to develop late Thursday night and continue through Friday afternoon, with ice accumulations ranging from one-tenth to one-quarter of an inch. The conditions could make roads especially hazardous during the Friday morning commute.

 

Lansing police are investigating after a body was discovered Tuesday in the Grand River near the Lansing Shuffle downtown. Authorities have not yet released information about the individual’s identity or whether foul play is suspected.

 

In a separate case, Lansing police have identified the 74-year-old woman who was fatally struck by a vehicle last week while using a motorized wheelchair. Marianne Gibson died from her injuries after being hit Thursday at the intersection of Cedar Street and Miller Road. Investigators say the driver was making a left turn at the time of the crash. While poor weather conditions may have been a factor, police say drugs and alcohol are not believed to be involved. The investigation remains ongoing.

 

At the state level, the Michigan Cannabis Industry Association is appealing a lower court ruling that upheld a 24 percent wholesale tax on marijuana sales. The group is asking the Michigan Court of Appeals to take up the case before the tax is scheduled to go into effect on New Year’s Day.

 

In Detroit, outgoing Mayor Mike Duggan announced during his final press conference Tuesday that the city is projecting a $105 million budget surplus. The milestone marks the 11th consecutive year Detroit has recorded a surplus of at least $100 million. Mayor-elect Mary Sheffield is set to be sworn into office next month. Duggan has announced plans to run for governor as an independent.

 

With Christmas just one day away, churches and places of worship across the Lansing area are holding Christmas Eve services throughout the afternoon and evening.