Syracuse Judge Faces Backlash for Refusing to Marry Same-Sex Couple, Sparking Calls for Resignation and Judicial Review

SYRACUSE, N.Y. — In a controversial break from expected judicial conduct, Syracuse City Court Judge Felicia Pitts Davis is facing scrutiny for her refusal to officiate a same-sex wedding, igniting conversations about the role of personal beliefs in the performance of official duties. The rejection occurred when Shawntay Davis and Niccora Davis approached her for a civil marriage ceremony on November 16. Witnesses reported that prior to encountering the same-sex couple, Judge Pitts Davis appeared emotionally moved during a ceremony for an opposite-sex couple. However, upon the arrival of Shawntay and Niccora Davis, she unexpectedly … Read more

Beware of Fake Sheriff Calls: Harris County Residents Targeted by Jury Duty Scam

Houston, Texas – Harris County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) is warning residents about a new scam where fraudsters impersonate law enforcement officials to demand money for supposedly missed jury duty. This deceitful scheme exploits fears of legal repercussions, as the scammers intimidate victims with arrest threats unless they pay fines urgently. Scammers are contacting people through unsolicited calls or texts, claiming that they have missed jury duty and must immediately pay a fine to avoid arrest. These fraudulent calls are persuasive, using fear to pressure individuals into transferring money or divulging sensitive personal information. HCSO has … Read more

Texas Judge Steps Down From Death Row Case Amid Controversy and Calls for Recusal

PALESTINE, Texas — A retired Texas judge who earlier this year authorized the execution of death row inmate Robert Roberson has stepped away from his case. The announcement was made in a court filing by Senior State District Judge Deborah Oakes Evans in Anderson County on Monday, though the reasons for her recusal were not specified. Roberson was condemned for the 2003 capital murder of his 2-year-old daughter, Nikki Curtis, who suffered from chronic health issues. Prosecutors argued that Roberson violently shook Nikki, leading to her death. Roberson, who was diagnosed with autism after his … Read more

Grand Jury Exposes Systemic Flaws within Kissimmee Police Department, Calls for Sweeping Reforms

Kissimmee, Florida – A grand jury investigation has unearthed significant operational flaws within the Kissimmee Police Department, revealing a pervasive culture of silence and inadequate handling of officer misconduct. This probe was triggered by a troubling incident on April 22, 2023, involving Officer Andrew Baseggio, whose aggressive handling of a suspect has since led to multi-faceted criminal charges, including felony battery and tampering with a witness. In August, Baseggio faced indictment on a roster of offenses which, beyond the direct accusations, have cast a long shadow on the department’s ability to police its own. The … Read more