Peace

Sexual Harassment Trial for Jefferson County Justice of the Peace Delayed as Prosecutors Seek New Indictment

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BEAUMONT, Texas – The trial date for a Jefferson County justice of the peace accused of sexual harassment of an employee has been postponed. Jefferson County Precinct Eight Justice of the Peace, Tom Gillam III, was scheduled to stand trial on March 6, 2024. However, prosecutors are now seeking a new indictment, leading to the delay. Gillam, who has been suspended without pay since September 2023, is facing a charge of official oppression related to sexual harassment. During a pre-trial hearing on Wednesday in Jefferson County’s Criminal District Court, Defense attorney Layne Walker and special … Read more

Former Justice of the Peace Convicted of Triple Murder Seeks New Death Penalty Trial, Citing Biased Judge and Inadequate Preparation

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TERRELL, Texas — Eric Williams, a former justice of the peace who committed a triple murder over a decade ago, is seeking a new death penalty trial, according to a court document. Williams alleges that his defense attorneys did not have sufficient time to prepare for trial or review the overwhelming evidence. He also claims that the judge was biased and that moving the case to Rockwall County did not provide him with a fair trial. In January 2013, Williams donned a tactical vest and black mask as he gunned down prosecutor Mark Hasse a … Read more