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The truth about Drake Bell’s controversy with an underage fan and his conviction

Warning: This article contains potentially disturbing information related to sexual assault and substance abuse. Please read with care.

It’s nearly impossible to recall the early era of teen sitcoms from the late 1990s and early 2000s and not think of two of Nickelodeon’s most popular series, The Amanda Show and Drake & Josh. Both aired from around 1999 to 2007. Both are considered by many to be of the Golden Age of the teen sitcom genre. And both starred American actor Drake Bell. 

Bell’s acting career carried him through nearly three decades, from the mid-1990s to the early 2020s. He starred in a plethora of small TV shows and even voiced the role of Peter Parker aka Spider-Man in a number of animated Marvel shows from 2012 to 2017, including Disney XD’s Ultimate Spider-Man. Throughout this time, Bell also leaned into a career in music, a profession to which he’s devoted years of his time, and even released almost half a dozen albums.

As is, unfortunately, the case for child actors, Bell’s time in the spotlight as he grew older was marred by controversy, a common occurrence for those who spend so many years under a microscope from such a young age. By 2015, the actor and musician was arrested for driving under the influence. Then, in 2021 he was hit with his biggest problem yet after a Cuyahoga County grand jury in Ohio indicted him for “charges of attempted endangering children, a fourth-degree felony, and disseminating matter harmful to juveniles, a first-degree misdemeanor,” according to ABC News 5 Cleveland. 

Still, there was more to come. Let’s look at Bell’s conviction, the controversy surrounding it, and the guilty plea he ultimately entered, as well as the addiction problems that plagued his adulthood.

Being accused of sexual contact and grooming an underage fan

Drake Bell wearing a blue and red puffer jacket while sitting on stage holding a microphone and holding one hand to his forehead.

In 2021, it was announced that Drake Bell, 34 years old at the time, had been charged with grooming an underage fan and attempted child endangerment, as well as sexual misconduct. Bell ultimately pled guilty to the child endangerment charges, and was sentenced to two years probation and 200 hours of community service.

In a virtual sentencing, the victim, who is now in her 20s, claimed she had been made to perform oral sex on Bell when she was just 15 years old. “He was calculating, he preyed on me and sexually abused me,” she said in her statement, as reported by Daily Mail. “He is a monster and a danger to children.”

She went on to claim that Bell is “the epitome of evil” and called him a pedophile. “’I deserve better than to be used for his sick desires, and for my suffering to be used for his amusement. Jared Drake Bell is a pedophile and that is his legacy,” she said.

Upon seeing the surprised look on Bell’s face at the mention of these accusations, she then added, “Don’t look at me like that!”

Why Drake Bell says he pled guilty

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A post shared by Drake Bell (@drakebell)

Shortly following the news of his guilty plea, Drake Bell took to Instagram to address the situation himself. “Most of the news you’ve heard recently is entirely false and wrong,” he said in a video clip. “I feel that you deserve, and I owe you, an explanation.”

According to him, the situation was not as spontaneous as it appeared from the outside. After a three-year ordeal, he decided to plead guilty, as it was the quickest and easiest way out, although he still maintains that the claims about him are false. Nevertheless, he also agreed that his interactions with the victim were “reckless and irresponsible.”

“I know that this has moved very quickly for you, but for me, it’s been a three-year, thorough investigation into every false claim that has been made. And, it’s not me telling you that the claims are false, but the state of Ohio has proven the claims to be false. If these claims were remotely true, my situation would be very different. I would not be here at home with my wife and my son.

“I responded to a fan whose age I didn’t know. Yet when I became aware of their age, all conversation and communication stopped. And this individual continued to come to shows and pay for meet and greets, all while I was unaware that this was the same person I was communicating with online, and that’s what I plead guilty to.

“It was reckless and irresponsible text messages. I want to make clear that there were no sexual images, nothing physical between me and this individual, I was not charged with anything physical. I was not charged with disseminating of photographs or images or anything like that. This is strictly over text messages. And when I was presented with a plea deal, because of the messages, I felt that it was the best way to get this over quickly and for everybody involved to be able to move on, and for me to get back to doing what I love. And that’s making music for you.”

Addiction, the dissolution of his marriage, and going missing

Janet von SchmelingImage via Drake Bell/ Instagram

In January 2023, while still in the midst of his two-year probation for child endangerment, Bell and his wife Janet Von Schmeling, with whom he shares a son, quietly separated after five years of marriage, according to People. The news came just one month after photographs revealed Bell inhaling balloons in the front seat of his car while his son sat in the back, as reported by the Daily Mail.

Bell ultmately entered an outpatient clinic for substance abuse shortly thereafter, according to People. “Drake needed to take time to get help and focus on his health,” a source for the magazine said.

On April 20, a week after Bell was reported missing and then later found, Von Schmeling formally filed for divorce. Bell addressed the topic of his whereabouts in a since-deleted post on X (then known as Twitter), saying “You leave your phone in the car and don’t answer for the night and this?”

Ever since, Bell has continued interacting with his fans on social media and promoting his music. In August he set out on a 6-stop tour across Mexico titled the “Non Stop Flight Tour.” He’s also released new music, which he promotes on his social media channels.

On Aug. 19 he responded to a fan letter during in Instagram Live video in which he emotionally adressed the “crazy few years” that have occured since his his legal woes began. With visibal tears in his eyes, Bell said it’s been “so nice to be out on the road again” and expressed “how much it means to me that I can still continue to share my music. My words, my thoughts, and translate that into song, and that you all are still showing up.” He concluded by saying, “It’s awesome. It’s just awesome.”

Bell comes out as a victim of sexual abuse

In March 2024, Bell made headlines again, for an equally shocking reason but this time it was on his terms. A trailer for Investigation Discovery docuseries Quiet on Set, taking a look at a convicted child abuser who worked for Nickelodeon in the ’90s and ’00s, confirmed that Drake Bell will take part in the program, opening up about his own experiences as a victim of sexual abuse at the age of 15 for the first time.

The subject of the series is Brian Peck, a former dialogue coach who was arrested in 2003 on 11 charges of child abuse. Up until now, Bell was not known to be one of Peck’s victims, nor has he ever come forward about any experiences of abuse in his past. The revelation has shocked his long-term fans, then, and all eyes are on Quiet on Set to unveil the full story. The two-part series is set to air across March 17-18.

By: Cody Raschella
Title: The truth about Drake Bell’s controversy with an underage fan and his conviction
Sourced From: wegotthiscovered.com/celebrities/the-truth-about-drake-bells-controversy-with-an-underage-fan-and-his-conviction/
Published Date: Thu, 07 Mar 2024 11:48:29 +0000

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I’m a former vet assistant who has trimmed hundreds of dogs’ nails — this nail grinder is the most beginner-friendly tool

When you buy through our links, Business Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

A side-by-side image of a person grinding a dog's nail using the Dremel grinder and the grinder laid on a wood surface.The Dremel PawControl Deluxe Pet Nail Trimming Kit includes everything you need to grind a dog's nails.

Jackie Brown; Lisa Sabatini/Business Insider

Trimming your dog's nails is an essential part of routine pet care, but it can be intimidating for many dog owners. If you're worried you'll accidentally hurt your dog while cutting their nails, you can always take them to the vet or groomer to get the job done. Using a dog nail grinder at home is also an excellent alternative that can save you plenty of time and money.

As a former veterinary assistant who has trimmed thousands of dogs' nails, I know that not all nail grinders are the same. Some are designed for use by professional groomers who are comfortable and familiar with using them safely. However, most people benefit from extra safety features, and that's why I love the Dremel PawControl Deluxe Pet Nail Trimming Kit. The Dremel nail grinder is not only effective and user-friendly, but it also has a guard that protects you and your dog from the spinning parts.

How it works

Nail grinders are a great option for most dogs, including those with very thick nails. They're particularly useful for dogs with black nails that don't have a visible quick, which is the vein inside of each nail. Plus, dogs that are anxious about having their nails trimmed with regular clippers may be more willing to accept a nail grinder.

The Dremel PawControl Kit includes everything you need to gently and easily grind down your dog's nails, including an optional guard attachment along with a variety of sanding bands and discs. The guard provides a barrier between the spinning parts of the tool so nothing can get caught up in them.

I personally preferred using the sanding disc, which the manufacturer recommends for beginner users. You insert your dog's nail through the opening in the clear guard attachment, which is designed to ensure you are grinding the nail at the ideal 45-degree angle.

Our review of the Dremel dog nail grinder

I first used the Dremel PawControl when I was testing grinders for our guide to the best dog nail clippers. I tried four different nail-grinding tools on two dogs with different-sized nails.

The Dremel PawControl stands out for several reasons. It's lightweight, gentle, and quiet, and offers four speed settings so you can select the one that's most comfortable for you and your dog. Designed for pet owners, it's easy to use and comes with various grinding attachments for flexibility. Plus, the guard attachment offers added peace of mind so you can focus on the task at hand.

A close-up image of the safety guard on the Dremel dog nail grinder.The removable nail guard attachment is recommended for new users.

Jackie Brown/Business Insider

Dremel is renowned for its high-quality rotary tools for tasks like cutting, sanding, and engraving. The PawControl should last many years and can even be used for tasks beyond nail grinding. While the grinding heads will need occasional replacement, the included ones should last for several years of use with your dog. It's also powered by a USB rechargeable lithium-ion battery, allowing you to use it anywhere without the hassle of a cord getting in your way while you work.

Nail grinders have a definite learning curve, but this one comes with an easy-to-follow Quick Start Guide that walks you through the entire process. It explains which attachments and grinding speeds are best for beginners and offers tips for getting your dog comfortable with the tool.

The Dremel PawControl Quick Start Guide has text and diagrams showing how to introduce a dog to the nail grinder.If you're new to nail grinding, the Quick Start Guide provides clear directions and helpful illustrations.

Lisa Sabatini/Business Insider

Cons to consider

The guard attachment enhances safety, but its single opening for inserting your dog's nail can limit maneuverability. However, you can always remove the guard attachment if you feel confident in your skills. Since this grinder is cordless, you'll need to remember to charge it before use.

The bottom line

If you're looking for a pet nail grinder, the Dremel PawControl Deluxe Pet Nail Trimming Kit is an excellent choice, especially if you're new to using these tools. It's effective, gentle, quiet, lightweight, and cordless, and thanks to the guard attachments, its safety is unparalleled.

Read the original article on Business Insider

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By: [email protected] (Jackie Brown)
Title: I’m a former vet assistant who has trimmed hundreds of dogs’ nails — this nail grinder is the most beginner-friendly tool
Sourced From: www.businessinsider.com/guides/pets/dremel-dog-nail-grinder-review
Published Date: Mon, 17 Mar 2025 18:22:20 +0000

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An ex-Microsoft VP of HR explains 3 things you can do to stay on your boss’s radar and off the layoff list

There is a yellow background and three small white figurines in business suits, with a large handheld magnifying glass centered on the middle figure.Chris Williams, ex-Microsoft VP of HR, wrote that being visible helps avoid uncomfortable inquiries like DOGE's "five bullet points" requested email.

sakchai vongsasiripat/Getty Images

  • Chris Williams is an ex-VP of HR at Microsoft and has over 40 years of executive experience.
  • Williams said being visible can help workers avoid DOGE-like emails requesting accomplishments.
  • He shared how to track accomplishments, get recognized, and know when to help out at work.

The "five things you did last week" email that DOGE sent to all federal workers has raised an important question for employees everywhere. How do you stay on your boss's radar in a positive way?

Simply put, if your boss already knew what you were up to, they wouldn't need to send an email like that. As the former VP of HR for Microsoft with 40 years of business leadership experience, I've seen a lot of people who know how to stay visible.

Being visible helps avoid uncomfortable inquiries like the "five bullet points" request and makes performance reviews easier for both you and your boss. It helps you avoid being labeled an underperformer when cuts are considered and it can help you be more top of mind when opportunities arise — it's a great way to "manage up."

Here are three ways to help you stay visible to your boss and reduce your chances of being laid off.

You should always track your accomplishments at work

It doesn't matter if your boss sends an intrusive status report request like "send five bullet points from last week" or a simple "Hey, what's up?" inquiry; you should always be ready to talk about what you've been up to.

That's why you should track your accomplishments. There are many ways to do this. Some people keep a "brag book," a simple document where they list the significant things they've done. Others use a notes application or even a complex database.

For years I kept a simple four-column spreadsheet

My spreadsheet had columns labeled: Date, Item, Significance, and Notes. Every day, or at worst, every week, I'd add a couple of rows to the sheet. I'd insert the date and a phrase for the item — just enough to remind me what it was.

In the significance column, I'd put a number to represent how important the item felt at the time, with "5" being the highest. In notes, I'd add a comment or even a link to the project or document.

Then whenever I wanted, I could sort by significance and date and get the most important things from the last month, week, or year. When bosses requested a progress report, I was always ready to respond: "I'm glad you asked."

The best way to ensure this happens is to make it a habit. Spend two minutes updating your list at the end of every day. This also helps at performance review time, where you'll inevitably need to report on your accomplishments for the year.

Don't be shy to take credit where due

Another important way to stay visible is to ensure you take credit when you deserve it. Too many people get shy or humble at work and let others grab the limelight.

Work is not a place for excessive humility. The forever humble, the "I'm just doing my job" kind of people are often overlooked. They're just doing their jobs, after all. If you want to be seen, you have to be visible. Don't be afraid to take credit for your accomplishments.

Ways to make sure you get credit for your work

Insist your name appears on that proposal or presentation. Don't be afraid to put your name under the title of that document. Don't be shy about answering "That was me" when someone asks about a great idea.

Also, don't let others steal your work without objection — even if you lose a battle for representation. For example, when your boss takes the credit, putting them on notice helps for the next time. If you simply let people take credit for your work, they'll never stop.

Raise your hand and help out

A final way to stay visible is to not shrink into a corner when the boss needs help. When the call comes for volunteers, raise your hand.

One of the best ways to stay on your boss's good side is to help them get their job done. The best way to do that is to do things they don't want or have time to do. Just being able to say, "Don't worry, I'll handle that," means a lot.

But it's often hard to know what they need help with. You don't do their job, so it's a challenge to understand where you can jump in. When they explicitly ask, that's where you can most certainly be useful.

Know when to volunteer and when to sit back

You don't have to raise your hand all the time. You don't have to answer your boss's every whim. You shouldn't stretch yourself beyond your limits just to be in their good graces.

But you should also not be the one who never volunteers. Your boss will notice that you never pitch in or lend a hand to your peers. That's how you stay on your boss's radar in the worst possible way.

Essentially, if you track your performance, take credit where due, and learn when to help out, you'll never be blindsided by the "five things you did last week" request because both you and your boss will already know. These are three great ways to increase visibility at work.

Chris Williams is a former VP of HR at Microsoft. He's an executive-level advisor and consultant with over 40 years of experience leading and building teams.

Read the original article on Business Insider

——————————————-
By: [email protected] (Chris Williams )
Title: An ex-Microsoft VP of HR explains 3 things you can do to stay on your boss’s radar and off the layoff list
Sourced From: www.businessinsider.com/how-to-stay-on-boss-radar-off-layoff-list-2025-3
Published Date: Tue, 18 Mar 2025 09:07:01 +0000

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AI Regulation Isn’t Over; It’s Evolving: What Marketers Need to Know

AI Regulation Isn’t Over; It’s Evolving: What Marketers Need to Know

The notion of “AI Regulation is Dead” is misleading; instead, AI governance is gaining momentum with more structured and stringent guidelines emerging worldwide. For marketers to thrive in this evolving landscape, it’s crucial to prioritize transparency, compliance, and ethical practices. This article explores how marketers can navigate new regulations and employ AI responsibly to maintain trust and competitiveness.

Key Takeaways

– AI regulation is rapidly evolving with comprehensive frameworks like the EU’s AI Act.
– Marketers must focus on transparent and ethical use of AI in campaigns.
– Adapting to regulatory changes is critical for maintaining customer trust and compliance.

The Rise of AI Governance

AI governance is swiftly advancing, with frameworks such as the EU’s AI Act setting the stage for stringent regulations. These regulations are designed to ensure AI technologies are used responsibly, safeguarding user privacy and data security. Marketers must remain vigilant and proactive in understanding these regulations, aligning their AI-driven strategies accordingly. As regulators worldwide continue to focus on AI implications, following these laws will be pivotal to navigating the global digital economy.

The Importance of Transparency in AI Campaigns

Transparency is becoming a cornerstone of AI regulation. Marketers are expected to clearly disclose data sources and algorithmic decision-making processes in their AI-driven campaigns. By being transparent, marketers can not only comply with regulations but also build trust with consumers. This includes providing customers with clarity on how their data is used and offering them control over their personal information. Such practices are not just regulatory requirements but also key to fostering long-term customer relationships.

Ethical AI: Investing in Responsible Practices

Investing in ethical AI practices is more crucial than ever. Marketers should engage in industry-wide discussions to set standards for responsible AI use. This involves creating AI systems that are fair, unbiased, and respectful of user privacy. Ethical AI practices can enhance brand reputation while preventing potential legal issues. By prioritizing ethics, marketers can contribute to sustainable and responsible AI advancements, benefiting both their businesses and the broader society.

Leveraging AI Responsibly for Enhanced Customer Experiences

AI, when used responsibly, can significantly enhance customer experiences. It offers personalized, efficient, and innovative solutions that meet consumer needs while respecting their privacy. Marketers should leverage AI tools that align with ethical standards, safeguarding personal data and ensuring compliance with privacy regulations. By doing so, AI can help marketers deliver superior customer service without compromising trust and legal integrity.

Recap

As AI regulation continues to evolve, marketers must adapt by embracing transparency, compliance, and ethical practices. These steps are essential for maintaining trust and competitiveness in a digital marketplace increasingly governed by AI laws. What specific strategies will you implement to ensure transparency in your AI campaigns and align with emerging regulations?

——————————————-
By: Phil Alvarez
Title: AI Regulation Isn’t Over; It’s Evolving: What Marketers Need to Know
Sourced From: www.advertisemint.com/ai-regulation-isnt-over-its-evolving/
Published Date: Sun, 23 Feb 2025 16:37:39 +0000

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