County

Washoe County Official’s Lawsuit Dismissed, Judge Opens Door for Refiling

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RENO, Nev. — A lawsuit filed by Amber Howell, the former director of Washoe County’s Health and Human Services department, has been dismissed by a federal judge. However, the judge noted sufficient grounds in her claims, permitting Howell the opportunity to amend and refile her case. Howell led the department prior to this legal challenge, focusing on an array of public health services encompassing social services, public health preparedness, and disease control. Her tenure saw various initiatives that aimed at improving community health standards and response capabilities in Washoe County. The specifics of the lawsuit … Read more

Pierce County Ends $100 Daily Juror Pay Pilot, Plans Study on Increased Compensation’s Impact on Jury Diversity

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Tacoma, Wash. – The recent juror pay initiative in Pierce County, which significantly increased daily compensation for jurors, is scheduled to end soon. Launched on October 14 last year, the pilot program raised the daily pay from $10 to $100 in an effort to make jury duty more accessible and diverse. The program will see its last group of high-paid jurors the week of April 14, with complete closure expected by mid-May. This initiative, backed by the Washington State Legislature and the Washington State Supreme Court Minority and Justice Commission, allocated over $1.5 million to … Read more

Petition Challenges Scotts Bluff County Attorney Over Jury Selection Queries

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Scottsbluff, NE — A petition is circulating to recall the Scotts Bluff County Attorney, Dave Eubanks, following allegations that he mishandled the questionings of potential jurors. This development stems from an incident during a recent murder trial, which some community members argue could have compromised the fairness of the judicial process. Initiated by local residents, the recall effort accuses Eubanks of practicing improper questioning that they claim could influence the impartiality of jury selection. The objection specifically focuses on an instance where Eubanks’ approach to vetting jurors was seen as overly aggressive and potentially leading … Read more

Waldo County Grand Jury Issues Multiple Indictments Spanning Theft, Assault, and Drug Charges

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BELFAST, Maine — A Waldo County grand jury issued a series of indictments on March 20-21, implicating multiple residents in a range of criminal activities spanning from drug offenses to violent crimes. Kathleen A. Winslow, 39, from Swanville, faces charges for unlawful possession of controlled substances as of December 22. Scott A. Clark, accused on two counts of gross sexual assault in Prospect, is dated for incidents on March 1 and September 1, 2019. In theft and deception related charges, Nicholas A. Parker, 37, of Belmont, was indicted for theft by deception and home repair … Read more