Morning Cable - August 23, 2012

Security boost at the CNE after sexual assault, an online Marineland petition seeking Dalton McGuinty's help, and TJ Jackson gets co-guardianship of Michael Jackson's kids.

Security boost at the CNE after a boy is sexual assaulted

The CNE is adding extra security after a young boy was sexually assaulted in the Direct Energy Centre on Wednesday afternoon.

The 15-year-old boy reportedly went into the bathroom when an older man began talking to him, and later attacked him, but CNE spokesperson Annette Borger told CityNews that festival organizers will not let this slide.

“There is a visible police presence, as well as an unseen police presence and security,” said Borger. “We also have cameras in all the buildings and throughout the grounds… In light of this, we are working with Toronto police and our own security to increase patrols,” she added.”

The alleged sexual assault suspect is being described as Chinese, between the ages of 50 and 60, with a thin build, thinning black hair, and approximately 5’5″ tall. Reports say that at the time, the supposed suspect was wearing an unbuttoned collared shirt with a visible white tank top underneath. 

An online Marineland petition seeking Dalton McGuinty’s help

Can Dalton McGuinty help Marineland? Petitioners say yes. 

Over 30,000 people have signed a change.org petition, asking for something to be done to correct the alleged animal neglect at the Niagara Falls amusement park. 

Launched by a former Marineland trainer, the petition seeks to get the attention of Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty. It has since been retweeted on Twitter, including by the likes of former Montreal Canadiens player, Georges Laraque. 

TJ Jackson gets co-guardianship of Michael Jackson’s kids

Katherine Jackson and her nephew, TJ Jackson, will share co-guardianship of the King of Pop’s three children, as announced by a judge on Wednesday.

The National Post reports Superior Court Judge Mitchell Beckloff named Tito Joe “TJ” Jackson for his new appointment, but was met with last-minute hesitation by relatives and loved ones of Michael Jackson. A letter was submitted by close family friend Diana Ross, and another by Deborah Jackson and her son Anthony, sought to delay the judge’s decision.

Yet, Beckloff noted that all three children have consented to the new co-guardianship, and that each child has a “very strong, loving relationship with TJ Jackson.” Earlier in July, TJ was appointed temporary guardianship, following an alleged family feud amongst the Jackson siblings regarding the physical and emotional health of their matriarch, Katherine. 

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Joanna Adams writes about news and entertainment for Toronto Standard. Follow her on Twitter at‏ @nowstarringTO.