HighStakes

Ken Paxton Challenges Federal Ruling Against Texas Ten Commandments Law in High-Stakes Appeal

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AUSTIN, Texas — Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has filed an appeal against a recent federal court decision that halted the implementation of a law promoting the display of the Ten Commandments in public schools. The legal move comes after U.S. District Judge Robert Pitman determined that the law potentially violates the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment. The controversial law, signed by Governor Greg Abbott in 2021, allows for the Ten Commandments to be posted in classrooms across the state. Advocates argue that the law reinforces moral values, while opponents have voiced concerns about … Read more

“Jury Weighs Intent in High-Stakes Re-Trial of Veteran Accused of Christmas Day Barricade Shooting”

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WEST CHESTER, Pa. — The fate of Nathaniel Lewis hinges on the jury’s evaluation of his intentions during a standoff at his northern Chester County home in December 2018. Lewis, who allegedly barricaded himself inside the residence and fired nearly 40 rounds at police officers outside, is on trial for serious charges that include assault on a police officer. During the trial, which commenced this week in Common Pleas Court, prosecutors assert that Lewis’ actions demonstrate a clear intent to harm. Chief Deputy District Attorney Michelle Frei argued that the specific choice to load an … Read more

Jury Selection Drags On in High-Stakes Trial of Hassan Sapry, Accused of 2019 Murder

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LACONIA, N.H. — Jury selection for the retrial of Hassan Sapry is entering its second week, as court proceedings continue at Belknap County Superior Court. The selection process fell short of completing the jury by Friday, prompting all parties to reconvene on Monday. As of Friday afternoon, attorney Jeffery Strelzin, representing the State of New Hampshire, stated that 13 jurors had been secured. The jury will ultimately comprise 16 members, with 12 serving as primary jurors and four as alternates, when the trial commences on Tuesday, Aug. 19. Sapry, 27, faces nine counts, including first- … Read more

High-Stakes Legal Battle: Former Sheriff Fights for Bond Amid Murder Charges in Shocking Courthouse Shooting

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Whitesburg, Kentucky — As the trial date approaches for former Letcher County Sheriff Shawn “Mickey” Stines, the question of bond eligibility remains in limbo nearly a year after the tragic shooting death of District Judge Kevin Mullins. A defense attorney has argued for a $50,000 cash or property bond, asserting that Stines does not pose a flight risk or threat to public safety. In contrast, prosecutors maintain that Stines should be denied bond due to the capital nature of the charges he faces. Stines has been incarcerated since September when Mullins was fatally shot inside … Read more