Essex

Essex County’s Jury Duty Becomes a Delightful Surprise with Rachel Brooks at the Helm

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Newark, NJ — Jury duty often elicits a groan when the summons appears in the mailbox, but in Essex County, the experience is much brighter than expected, with Rachel Brooks at the helm. As the Essex County Jury Manager, Brooks has redefined the jury duty experience, infusing it with warmth and efficiency that leaves a lasting impression on those called to serve. For over a decade, Brooks has been the guiding force for up to 6,000 jurors monthly in both petit and grand jury cases. Her role encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, from fielding … Read more

Kristy Sprague Shatters Glass Ceiling as Essex County’s First Female Judge, Defying Early Doubters

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ELIZABETHTOWN, N.Y. — Kristy Sprague, who once was advised against attending law school due to perceived inadequacies, victoriously took the oath of office Monday as Essex County’s first female county judge. The inauguration ceremony, held in Elizabethtown’s historic courthouse, was attended by a throng of supporters including friends, family, and local dignitaries. In a bold retort to early detractors, the newly appointed judge recollected, “Look at me now,” echoing her determination and resilience that ultimately led to her achieving this historic milestone in a county established in 1799. Amid cheers, Sprague, 52, from Moriah, entered … Read more

Trailblazing Triumph: Kristy Sprague Sworn In as Essex County’s First Female Judge Amidst Family and Historic Applause

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Elizabethtown, NY — Surrounded by family and tradition, Kristy Sprague made history on Monday by becoming the first female county judge in Essex County, a judicial seat forged in 1799. Sworn in before a full house at the historic county courthouse, Sprague’s commitment to perseverance shone as she recited the oath of office, administered by state Supreme Court Judge Allison M. McGahey. Defying early doubts about her capabilities, the 52-year-old Sprague, hailing from Moriah, stood proudly as a testament to ambition and resilience. In an echoing response to a guidance counselor who once doubted her … Read more

Essex County School District Faces Lawsuit Over Alleged Severe Bullying and Discriminatory Punishments

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Belleville, NJ — In a distressing case emerging from Essex County, the parents of a Belleville Public School #4 student have launched a legal battle against the school district, alleging a systemic failure to protect their son from bullying and discriminatory treatment, some of which they claim came from the educators themselves. This lawsuit, filed in the Superior Court of Essex County earlier this month, details the harrowing experiences of their child, dating back to his enrollment in pre-kindergarten in the 2019-2020 academic year. According to the legal documents, the child, now in the second … Read more