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Former Oath Keepers Lawyer Faces Prison for Instructing Evidence Destruction Post-Capitol Riot

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WASHINGTON — A Texas attorney involved with the Oath Keepers militia is scheduled for sentencing next week with federal prosecutors seeking a prison term exceeding a year. The lawyer, Kellye SoRelle, 45, from Granbury, pled guilty in October to charges that include one count of obstructing an official proceeding and one misdemeanor related to unauthorized entry into restricted areas. SoRelle, a former Republican candidate for the Texas House of Representatives and the general counsel of the Oath Keepers, was charged in what has become the largest Capitol riot case handled by the government to date. … Read more

Federal Judge Overturns Biden Administration’s Updated Title IX Regulations

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A federal judge recently invalidated regulations under Title IX promulgated during President Joe Biden’s administration, which had expanded protections based on gender identity and sexual orientation. This ruling marks a significant pivot in the ongoing debate over discrimination policies in educational settings. The decision emanated from a lawsuit filed by 20 Republican-led states. They argued that the Biden administration overreached with its interpretations of Title IX, which originally aimed to prevent sex-based discrimination in federally funded education programs and activities. The contentious amendments made by the Biden administration included directives on accommodations for transgender students … Read more

Colorado Man Cites Ancient Texts and Legal Anomalies in Battle Over Public Land Rights

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Denver, CO — In a peculiar turn in a legal battle over public land rights, Patrick Leroy Pipkin, aligning himself with the Free Land Holder Committee, asserted in a court filing that they possess rightful claims to a segment of land within Colorado’s San Juan National Forest. This claim includes rights to all encompassing resources such as water and grazing areas in the vicinity of Mancos, northwest of Durango. Pipkin, identifying as the ambassador for the group and a survivor of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, submitted a detailed 50-page … Read more

Utah Man Inadvertently Summoned for Jury Duty Highlights Systemic Oversight in State’s Selection Process

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SALT LAKE CITY — The concept of jury duty, an obligation shared by many Utah residents, can evoke varied reactions: some may see it as a profound civic duty, while others view it as an unwelcome disruption. Given the range of opinions and the significant responsibilities involved, the stakes are high, extending from minor traffic infractions to serious criminal allegations. In Utah, not everyone is eligible to serve on a jury. The law exempts certain groups such as individuals coping with serious physical or mental health issues, convicted felons, and non-U.S. citizens. This eligibility criterion … Read more