Arkansas

Veteran Journalist Dale Ellis Chronicles Justice in Arkansas: Insights from the Federal Courthouse Beat

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PINE BLUFF, Ark. — Dale Ellis, a seasoned journalist dedicated to coverage of the federal courthouse, has been making an impact on the legal landscape in Arkansas through his reporting for the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette. Since becoming part of the newspaper in January 2018, Ellis has focused on stories that resonate with both civil and criminal justice issues affecting residents across the state. Prior to his current role, Ellis started out in the news industry in 1998, working at the Heber Springs Sun-Times. He honed his skills as a reporter and columnist, later advancing to positions … Read more

Justice Served: Arkansas Woman Sentenced to 36 Years for Attempted Murder and Child Endangerment

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Jonesboro, Arkansas—A Craighead County jury has convicted 30-year-old Christin Leeann Helms of attempting to commit murder and endangering a minor, according to Prosecuting Attorney Sonia F. Hagood. The verdict was reached on July 8, with Circuit Judge Chris Thyer overseeing the proceedings. Helms received a 30-year sentence for the attempted murder charge, alongside a six-year term for child endangerment. Both sentences will be served consecutively, bringing her total prison time to 36 years at the Arkansas Department of Corrections. The prosecution, led by Deputy Prosecuting Attorneys Charlene Davidson and Katherine Calaway, highlighted extensive investigations conducted … Read more

Ryan P. Phillips Announces Bid for Circuit Judge in Arkansas, Aiming to Uphold Judicial Legacy

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Magnolia, Arkansas — Judge Ryan P. Phillips has declared his candidacy for the position of Circuit Judge for the 5th Division of the 13th Judicial District of Arkansas. His announcement follows his recent appointment by Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders as Circuit Court Judge for Division 3, set to take effect on January 1, 2024, succeeding the retiring Judge Edwin Keaton. Before his current role, Phillips served as the District Court Judge for the 39th Judicial District. He boasts a comprehensive legal background, having been a Deputy Prosecuting Attorney for the 13th Judicial District from 2007 … Read more

Arkansas Lawmakers Tackle Challenges of Direct Democracy in Ballot Measure Revision

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Little Rock, Ark. — A revised ballot measure promoting direct democracy is being crafted in Arkansas to comply with state law, the measure’s author said. The adjustments aim to address legal concerns while preserving the original intent of empowering voters. The initiative seeks to enhance the ability of voters to directly enact legislation and propose amendments, providing a counterbalance to traditional legislative processes. Supporters argue this mechanism can strengthen citizen involvement in governance, especially regarding pressing local issues. Under the newly proposed changes, drafters are carefully aligning the measure with Arkansas regulations. This includes specific … Read more