Tag: history
-
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — December 14, 2025
On October 6, 2025, the Los Angeles Superior Court held a significant hearing in the case of People v. Giselle Farias Smiel without public access or proper notification. Advocates, including ADA support personnel, were excluded. This breach of transparency undermines First and Sixth Amendment rights, as well as ADA Title II protections, raising serious legal…
-
The Public Has a Right to Know Whether Government Agencies Followed the Law Before Taking Someone’s Freedom.
Los Angeles and San Diego officials are under scrutiny for withholding public records related to the prosecution of Giselle Smiel, raising concerns over transparency and due process. Taxpayer-funded agencies are stalling information requests, undermining public trust in the justice system by obscuring the facts surrounding an arrest that severely impacts a citizen’s freedom.
-
Idaho Lawmakers Move Toward Sweeping Child Custody Reform—With New Penalties for Violations
Idaho lawmakers are set to overhaul child custody laws, addressing years of concerns about inconsistent rulings and parental rights deprivations. The new proposals, driven by the Child Custody and Domestic Relations Task Force, include a presumption of 50/50 joint custody, stronger enforcement measures, and provisions for child safety, aiming for clearer justice in family courts.
-
Oregon Senator Sounds Alarm on Family Courts—Raising Questions Californians Should Not Ignore
Oregon is experiencing increasing scrutiny over family courts, spurred by Senator Suzanne Weber’s concerns about unchecked judicial power and limited transparency. Complaints have emerged from constituents highlighting systemic issues, echoing similar criticisms in California. The lack of accountability and federal funding influences demand nationwide reform, though responses remain sparse.
-
San Diego’s $30 Million Police Payout Over the Killing of 16-Year-Old Konoa Wilson: What Went Wrong, and What Comes Next?
San Diego’s record-setting $30 million settlement over the police killing of 16-year-old Konoa Wilson is more than a financial headline — it’s a warning sign. Despite five years of post-Floyd reforms, a teenager running away from gunfire was shot in the back by an officer who never issued a warning. As investigations stall and taxpayers…
-
California DOJ Sues Los Angeles County Over “Inhumane” Jail Conditions — What the State Isn’t Saying About Its Own Role
California Attorney General Rob Bonta has initiated a significant lawsuit against the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, alleging severe safety and health violations in county jails. The case highlights systemic issues and questions the state’s responsibility in creating these conditions, though critics argue the lawsuit may expand state control rather than provide meaningful reform.
-
Are Protective Orders in California Criminal Cases Becoming Too Broad?
California’s use of protective orders in criminal cases has expanded, raising concerns about transparency and due process. Blanket orders restricting access to evidence, influenced by resource pressures, can hinder defendants’ rights. Critics call for clearer regulations, increased funding for evidence management, and greater consistency across counties to protect both victims and defendants.
-
Coercive Control Laws Are Spreading — But Are They Defining Abuse or Criminalizing Relationships?
As states implement coercive control laws to enhance domestic violence protections, a debate arises about the balance between victim safety and potential government overreach. Critics highlight vague definitions and risk of false allegations in custody disputes, while advocating for objective evidence requirements and due process safeguards to protect legitimate victims without eroding constitutional rights.
-
Justice Department Challenges California Redistricting as ‘Brazen Power Grab’ by Democrats
The U.S. Department of Justice has filed a lawsuit against California, challenging its new congressional district map on the grounds of unconstitutional racial gerrymandering. The map, supported by Governor Newsom, aims to shift seats from Republican to Democratic control. The DOJ argues it improperly favors certain racial demographics, while supporters claim it’s a response to…
California Bay News 