Tag: News
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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…
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San Diego Sheriff Wants Up to $3 Billion for New Jails. Taxpayers Deserve Straight Answers First.
San Diego Sheriff Kelly Martinez is seeking up to $3 billion to replace the Vista Detention Facility and upgrade six county jails amid lawsuits, in-custody deaths, and Prop 36 overcrowding. Critics question whether taxpayers should fund massive construction before accountability and mental-health reforms are in place.
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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.
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LASD Expands Body-Worn Cameras in County Jails — But Santa Clarita’s Pitchess Facility Will Wait Until 2026
Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna announced an expansion of body-worn cameras in the county jail system, starting in October 2025. However, the Pitchess Detention Center will not receive these cameras until mid-2026, raising concerns about equitable reform. Critics emphasize that cameras alone won’t address deeper systemic issues, and transparency remains vital.
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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.
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Amazon Backs Out of Massive “Project Blue” Data Center Campus in Arizona
Amazon Web Services has withdrawn from a significant data center project in Mesa, Arizona, leading to community concerns about transparency and economic impact. The abrupt exit follows rising construction costs, regulatory scrutiny, and water resource conflicts. Residents are left questioning past commitments and the negotiation process, highlighting broader issues with Big Tech projects.
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Oregon Judge Fines Attorney $2,000 for AI-Generated Errors — A Warning Shot to Courts Nationwide
An Oregon judge fined an attorney $2,000 for submitting an AI-generated legal filing that contained errors like fictitious cases and fabricated quotes. This case underscores growing concerns about lawyers relying on AI without proper verification. The ruling signals stricter enforcement of ethical standards and responsibility for accuracy in legal documents.
California Bay News 