Los Angeles (AP) - Philip Seymour Hoffman suffered from a chronic medical condition that required ongoing treatment. An admitted drug addict who first sought professional help more than two decades ago, Hoffman apparently succumbed to his affliction with an overdose despite a return to rehab in March 2013. A father of three with a thriving career, the Oscar winner died Sunday with a needle in his arm and baggies of heroin nearby. New York City medical examiners were conducting an autopsy on Hoffman's body Monday as investigators scrutinize evidence found in his apartment. [continues 643 words]
Former Members Says His Controvesial Book Is Still Relevant 10 Years Later Author Luis J. Rodriguez is no stranger to conflict. He began his criminal life -- shoplifting -- at age 7. At 10 he saw his best friend killed. By 15 he was using heroin and living on the streets. At 17 he was arrested for attempted murder. More than 20 years later, he detailed his experiences in Always Running: La Vida Loca, Gang Days in L.A. The conflicts have continued. Rival gangsters sought revenge. The book is regularly banned at schools and censored at libraries around the country. Earlier this month, parents in Lawndale protested its use at Environmental Charter High School, calling it too vulgar for freshman readers. [continues 735 words]
