Independence

Former Independence Official Pleads Guilty to Tax Evasion Amid Scrutiny Over High-Profile Utility Contracts

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Independence, Mo. — A former elected official and attorney, embroiled in long-standing FBI inquiries into local utility contracts, admitted guilt to federal tax evasion charges on Monday. John C. Carnes, 69, who has previously faced imprisonment and legal scrutiny spanning decades, confirmed his evasion of personal income taxes from 2012 through 2018. Carnes was a significant player in municipal decisions during his tenure on the Independence City Council, particularly in the acquisition of land for a solar farm and the controversial demolition of a city-owned power plant. His legal issues resurfaced after he was indicted … Read more

Colorado Commits to Expanding Independence for Disabled Citizens with Landmark Settlement

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Denver, Colo. – Colorado has reached a settlement involving more inclusive treatment for thousands of its residents with physical disabilities, addressing previous practices that confined many to nursing homes when not strictly necessary. This agreement resolves allegations that state health officials were non-compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by maintaining such restrictive environments for disabled individuals. The settlement, announced by the U.S. Department of Justice, mandates significant reforms to promote greater independence and integration for people with disabilities, adhering to ADA’s principle of ensuring that services are provided in the least restrictive and … Read more

Judge to Decide if Fannie Mae’s Legal Battle Will Include Independence Towers Tenants Seeking Justice Over Hazardous Living Conditions

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KANSAS CITY, Mo. — A local apartment complex has come under legal scrutiny following allegations of hazardous living conditions, prompting a judge to potentially allow tenants to become parties in a lawsuit initially filed by Fannie Mae against the property’s former management. The disputed Independence Towers Apartments may see a shift in its legal proceedings if tenants gain court approval to intervene this Monday. The lawsuit, initiated in February by loan lender Fannie Mae, accused FTW Investments, the previous owners of Independence Towers, of failing to ensure residents’ safety and falling behind on loan payments. … Read more

Mexico Set to Roll Out Elective Justice Reforms Amid Independence Day Festivities: A Bold Move Toward Popular Democracy or a Challenge to Judicial Independence?

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Mexico City, Mexico — Amid national celebrations marking Mexico’s Independence Day, President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador is set to enact sweeping judicial reforms that are stirring significant public debate. These changes, poised to transform how judges are selected in Mexico, have drawn both applause for their intention to democratize the judiciary and criticism for potentially undermining judicial independence. The judicial overhaul, approved after rigorous debates in both houses of parliament, aims to shift from an appointment-based system to one where citizens elect judges directly. Proponents argue that this approach will make the judiciary more accountable … Read more