News

News

Federal Judge Dismisses West Virginia Inmate Lawsuit Against Governor Over Jail Conditions

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. — A federal judge has recently dismissed a class action lawsuit that challenged the conditions of West Virginia’s corrections system. The lawsuit, initiated last August by several inmates, targeted both Gov. Jim Justice and the head of the state’s Department of Homeland Security, Cabinet Secretary Mark Sorsaia, alleging systemic understaffing, overcrowding, and neglected maintenance across the state’s correctional facilities. On Tuesday, U.S. District Court Judge Irene Berger ruled that the lawsuit misdirected its claims by not naming the responsible state agencies and legislative bodies, namely the Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation (DCR) and … Read more

Stanislaus County Welcomes New Civil Grand Jury Members for 2024-2025, Aims to Boost Local Government Accountability

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Modesto, Calif. — In a ceremony held on June 27, the Stanislaus County Superior Court moved forward with the traditional selection and swearing-in of the 19 members set to serve on the Civil Grand Jury for the 2024-2025 term. Presided over by Judge Carrie Stephens, the event marked the initiation of the new jury’s responsibilities which officially begin on July 1, 2024, and will conclude on June 30, 2025. The Civil Grand Jury, a fundamental element of local governance in California, plays a critical role in ensuring transparency and accountability within various government bodies. By … Read more

Los Angeles Struggles to Halt Rise in Street Racing Despite Increased Legislation

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Los Angeles, Calif. — The fight against street racing and related incidents in Los Angeles remains a significant challenge, despite ongoing legislative efforts and increased police oversight. This persistent issue is highlighted in a new analysis by Crosstown LA, which scrutinizes the impact of current laws targeting these dangerous activities. According to a report presented to the Los Angeles Police Commission last month, street racing and spontaneous car meets, often referred to as “takeovers,” have escalated rather than decreased. From the beginning of the year to late May, officials recorded a 49% increase in street … Read more

Jury Awards Ex-BlueCross Scientist Over $687K for COVID-19 Vaccine Dismissal on Religious Grounds

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Chattanooga, TN – A Tennessee federal court has awarded more than $687,000 to a former BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee scientist after she was dismissed for not receiving a COVID-19 vaccine, citing religious beliefs. The decision, which could influence the way companies handle similar cases, underscores the conflicts between employer policies and individual rights under religious freedom protections. Tanja Benton, a longtime employee with over 17 years at BlueCross BlueShield, held a position as a bio statistical scientist before her separation from the company. The legal proceedings established that her refusal of the vaccine stemmed from … Read more