pstrongMadison

Madison Murder Trial Kicks Off: Allegations of Planned Execution and Self-Defense Claims Take Center Stage

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MADISON, Wis. — A jury trial commenced Tuesday for Devonte Gafford, 34, who faces charges related to the fatal shooting of 20-year-old Devon Grant over two years ago at the Grandview Common Apartments. Gafford is accused of killing Grant on July 13, 2021, during what prosecutors claim was a drug deal gone wrong. In March 2023, he was convicted for firearm possession as a felon. However, a judge declared a mistrial concerning more serious charges of first-degree intentional homicide and first-degree recklessly endangering safety. Following the jury selection process that concluded Monday, both the prosecution … Read more

Madison County Chair Sues Sheriff Amid Election Misconduct Controversy Sparked by Facebook Comments

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WINTERSET, Iowa — A legal battle has emerged in Madison County as the chairwoman of the county supervisors, Heather Stancil, has initiated a lawsuit against Sheriff Jason Barnes. The conflict arises amid an investigation linked to Stancil’s remarks on Facebook, which have sparked allegations of election misconduct and voter intimidation. The lawsuit claims that Barnes acted outside legal protocols established in Iowa law. According to the complaint, the sheriff was supposed to investigate allegations of election misconduct only under the guidance of the attorney general, rather than independently. Furthermore, any reports stemming from such investigations … Read more