[naviga:h3]Animal cruelty rules updated[/naviga:h3]

HARRISBURG — A new Pennsylvania law that increases the penalty for animal abuse has taken effect.

Libre’s Law went into effect Monday. Under the new law, animal abusers can face fines of at least $500 and felony charges.

The new law also provides guidelines for tethering dogs. Dogs must have access to shade and water when outside. The law prohibits keeping dogs out for longer than half an hour in potentially dangerous weather conditions as well.

Libre’s Law is named after the Boston Terrier who was abused and became an animal rights representative.

[naviga:h3]Communications airmen give aid[/naviga:h3]

MIDDLETOWN — Six airmen skilled in securing and re-establishing cell phone and satellite communications are on their way to help with Tropical Storm Harvey recovery in the Houston area.

The Wolf administration said Tuesday the members of the 193rd Special Operations Wing departed on a C-130 transport plane for Kelly Air Force Base in San Antonio.

They’re based at Harrisburg International Airport in Middletown. Officials said they don’t know how long the team will be helping out in Texas.

[naviga:h3]Trial in officer’s death won’t move[/naviga:h3]

SCRANTON — A local jury will hear the case of three teenagers accused of having caused the death of a Pennsylvania police officer during a chase two years ago.

A Lackawanna County judge denied a defense request to move the trial to another county or bring jurors from another county.

Jury selection is to begin Sept. 22 for the trial of Tanner Curtis, Isiah Edwards and Nasiir Jones. The 19-year-old defendants face charges of second-degree murder and murder of a law enforcement officer.

Authorities said patrolman John Wilding died after falling from a 15-foot retaining wall while chasing the then-17-year-olds after a July 2015 armed robbery.

Their attorneys argued that extensive publicity would make it difficult for them to get a fair trial.

[naviga:h3]Robbery suspects dress as nuns[/naviga:h3]

TANNERSVILLE, — Police say two women dressed as nuns attempted to rob a bank in the Poconos.

Authorities said the women walked into Citizens Bank near Tannersville on Monday and one brandished a handgun, demanding money from a teller. But they left without taking anything.

Each woman was wearing a black nun’s habit and veil. One woman also was wearing sunglasses.

[naviga:h3]Philly Naked Bike Ride just days away[/naviga:h3]

PHILADELPHIA — The wheels are in motion for Philadelphia’s next gathering of naked bicyclists.

Organizers of the Philly Naked Bike Ride said Tuesday the ninth annual event will take place throughout the city’s streets Sept. 9.

Around 3,000 riders are expected to pass by sites including Independence Hall and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Ride organizers say participants can go as bare as they dare. Last year some riders wore nothing at all or sported body paint while others wore underwear.

The ride is to protest dependence on fossil fuels, advocate for the safety of cyclists and promote positive body image.