DAILY BRIEFING
Simpson requested guns, police are told
LAS VEGAS - O.J. Simpson wanted armed men with him when he confronted two sports memorabilia dealers, according to a codefendant who in a plea deal has agreed to testify for the prosecution in the armed robbery case. Walter Alexander, 46, told police in a transcript of his tape-recorded statement that he and another man showed up with guns at the former football star's request, then headed with him into a hotel room to retrieve collectibles Simpson said belonged to him. Regarding the weapons, Simpson stated, " 'We won't have to use 'em, but . . . just to look tough, you know,' " Alexander said. Simpson has denied guns were involved. (AP)
Washington, D.C.
Old taxi fare system to be left at the curb
The District of Columbia will join the nation's other major cities by installing meters in its taxis, abandoning a quirky zone system that has frustrated residents and visitors alike for decades, the mayor announced yesterday. (AP)
Missouri
Kan. clinic accused of illegal abortions
KANSAS CITY - A Planned Parenthood clinic was charged yesterday with providing unlawful abortions. Johnson County District Attorney Phill Kline charged the Overland Park, Kan., clinic with 107 counts. Peter Brownlie, Planned Parenthood of Kansas and Mid-Missouri's president, said the clinic doesn't perform abortions past the 22d week of pregnancy. (AP) 