Family Seeks Justice: Lawsuit Claims Fatal Neglect in Monitoring Violent Offender in North Carolina Tragedy

ASHEVILLE, N.C. — Two civil complaints have emerged, shedding light on a series of tragic incidents involving Ryan Ricky Houston that spanned multiple counties in Western North Carolina in August, ultimately resulting in his death and the deaths of two others. The legal action highlights serious allegations of neglect by various officials in Buncombe County, painting a troubling portrait of oversight failures. The plaint brought forth by the family of Malerie Crisp, Houston’s estranged girlfriend, targets Buncombe County, Houston’s estate, County Manager Avril Pinder, and other personnel previously associated with judicial services. The lawsuit particularly … Read more

Federal Judge Upholds Monitoring Rule for Maine Lobstermen, Rejects Privacy Concerns

A federal judge in Maine has ruled in favor of a state regulation that mandates monitoring devices on the boats of federally permitted lobster fishermen, rejecting a lawsuit from a group of lobstermen who claimed the rule infringed their constitutional rights. The regulation, which has been in effect for over a year, aims to track the location of lobster boats at sea. The lawsuit was initiated by five lobstermen who argued that the requirement for monitors was a violation of their rights to privacy, equal protection, and due process. They contended that the installation of … Read more

Election Vigilance Intensifies in Key States Amid Tight Races and Legal Challenges Over Polling Place Monitoring

As the U.S. gears up for another heated presidential election, the focus has intensified on seven critical battleground states: Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, North Carolina, Nevada, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. These states are crucial as both Vice President Kamala Harris and her contender Trump pour significant campaign efforts into these regions. Historically, both Democratic and Republican administrations have tasked the Justice Department with monitoring elections to ensure fairness and legality. However, this election cycle sees a twist as some states express resistance to federal oversight. Notably, Florida and Texas officials have openly rejected federal election observation within … Read more

Honolulu Plaintiffs Win Landmark $670,000 Settlement in Discrimination Lawsuit with Enhanced Monitoring Conditions

HONOLULU — A longstanding dispute involving discrimination allegations against the Honolulu Liquor Commission and the City concluded abruptly with a settlement on the seventh day of a non-jury trial at the Federal Court in downtown Honolulu. The plaintiffs, Scarlet Honolulu and Gay Island Guide, reached an agreement that included monetary compensation and significant policy changes within the commission. Joseph Luna, co-owner of Scarlet Honolulu, delivered a poignant testimony that significantly influenced the course of the trial. Luna recounted years of discrimination that culminated in an incident in 2021 when he was allegedly pushed by a … Read more