Countys

County’s Top Lawyer Exits with $535,000 Payout Amid Legal Turmoil and Performance Review Controversy

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San Diego, Calif. — The sudden retirement of the county’s chief legal officer, Claudia Silva, is set to result in a substantial financial payout of at least $535,000. This figure comes after Silva signed an agreement shortly before her departure, which will take effect when her paid leave ends on August 22. Official documents indicate that the settlement will provide Silva with a lump sum payment equivalent to 18 months of her nearly $363,000 annual salary. However, the county plans to deduct more than $9,000 from this amount to cover her share of health insurance … Read more

"Voices of Change: Davidson County’s Grand Jury Foreperson Challenges Status Quo Amid Controversial Decisions"

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NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The dynamics of Davidson County’s grand jury process have come under increased scrutiny, thanks to the passionate advocacy and unique experiences of its foreperson, Theeda Murphy. Her perspective has shifted the focus from mere statistics to the profound implications of what a grand jury represents in the community. Murphy, who has taken to the steps of the Historic Metro Courthouse in her quest for justice and reform, expressed a mix of optimism and skepticism about the grand jury’s role. In an interview, she reflected on her activism against systemic incarceration, stating that … Read more

Legal Battle Intensifies: Attorneys Argue for Bernalillo County’s Dismissal from Forfeiture Lawsuit

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ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Attorneys representing Bernalillo County have requested the court to dismiss the county from a forfeiture lawsuit, asserting that the allegations against it lack sufficient merit. The motion was filed in response to claims that the county improperly participated in civil asset forfeiture processes that some stakeholders argue are unlawful. The lawsuit, initiated by a group of plaintiffs, accuses several law enforcement agencies and the county itself of engaging in practices that violate due process rights concerning seized property. The plaintiffs allege that the county’s involvement in these forfeiture proceedings has led to … Read more

Marin County’s Cybersecurity in Hot Water: Grand Jury Urges Urgent Action After Recent Attacks

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Marin County, California, is facing increasing challenges in safeguarding its government agencies against cyber threats, according to insights from the Marin County Civil Grand Jury. A recent report by the panel revisits issues highlighted in last year’s review, emphasizing the need for improved cybersecurity measures across various county agencies. The report points out that two Marin agencies were targeted in cyberattacks within the past year. Last July, the Marin Housing Authority fell victim to a phishing scheme, resulting in a loss of $950,000. The attacker masqueraded as a vendor and redirected funds through what appeared … Read more