Jackson Free Press

The Mississippi Supreme Court has recused Judge Tomie Green from supervising Mayor Frank Melton's probation.

The court also vacated Melton's arrest warrant, though two justices, Oliver Diaz and James Graves Jr., dissented.

Read the decisions (PDF, 28 KB).

On Friday, Senior Hinds County Circuit Judge Swan Yerger (PDF, 192 KB) asked the Mississippi Supreme Court to reassign Melton's weapons probation.

More details as they become available.

Previous Commentsshow

Well I said he would have been out by yesterday so I guess I was a day off. You just can't go around removing orders from court files. I guess the whole Dale Danks crew was a lot smarter than y'all gave them credit for.

snowjob

Mar 8 2007

Dale Danks is not smart. He just knows how to work the system. Melton's back... and y'all can have him. No more shopping in Jackson until Melton is gone.

Lady Havoc

Mar 8 2007

Smart is as smart does. ;-)

DonnaLadd

Mar 8 2007

And no other news media outlet has this yet. Good job again, JFP. :)

Lady Havoc

Mar 8 2007

Sure would like to know why Graves and Diaz dissented. They're pretty smart, too.

DonnaLadd

Mar 8 2007

WAPT just opened with it- early...

Rico

Mar 8 2007

You're welcome, Lady. We're here for y'all as always.

DonnaLadd

Mar 8 2007

Like our Justices aren't biased or base their decision on "their" morals. Does anyone think this court would overturn an abortion ban? They already upheld a ban on sex toys which showed they are more beholden to their church then to the rights of women! So, can they rearrest him if another Judge issues a warrant? I guess if you are a black attorney and disparage the court you get disbarred. If you are white then you can just accuse the Judge of anything! Shaun, Judge Green may have made an error; but, this doesn't pass the smell test. I look forward to hearing more, so we can better understand how the fix is in.

pikersam

Mar 8 2007

It sure would be interesting to read what the justice's reasoning on this was. Props to JFP however on pushing out the news fast.

GLewis

Mar 8 2007

Because I'm 400 miles from 90% of y'all, plus my own day-to-day time constraints, my ability to participate in the Melton issue is limited. But I will say this much though: It's ABOUT TIME the City Council grew a pair!! (of both types of organs). Applauds to the Jackson City Council, even if they are a bit late in doing so.

Philip

Mar 8 2007

Agreed. We're eager to hear their reasons as well. A different judge could certainly have him re-arrested, but so far there is no indication that the judge assigned to Ridgeway cares a whole lot about Melton violating his bond. Dennis Grant says in his letter that he has talked to him as well about the problems. If I may be so sold, I want to point out the seeming heroism of Rev. Grant through all this mess. He seems to be really trying to do his job and protect Mr. Melton from himself. Who was it who said earlier in the week, by the way, that the Supreme Court was "pro-Melton"?

DonnaLadd

Mar 8 2007

Philip makes a good point. We're in a different era now that the council president is fed up. At least there's some hope in that. And, all, it's important to remember that there are years of problems here to cut through and lot of instiutionalized muck that we can't clear out and make accountable overnight. Keep fighting the fight and fighting for Jacksonians' rights. If Mr. Melton is emboldened by this, he is going to get himself in big trouble, I fear. (This feels a bit like Election 2000 when the U.S. Supreme Court upheld their guy, doesn't it? Smile.)

DonnaLadd

Mar 8 2007

OOPS! Obviously my above post was meant for the City Council board. But boos to the State Supreme Court, barring the two other judges

Philip

Mar 8 2007

I have a source at WLBT and Bert Case got the call from Danks at 4:30pm.

diesel

Mar 8 2007

Well, we're hearing that Stephanie Parker-Weaver knew it before any of the "official" folks in Law enforcement involved. In fact, I know it for a fact. What's up with that? Doesn't help squelch the "fix" rumor, does it?

DonnaLadd

Mar 8 2007

Is it possible that is why Recio and Wright were hanging around City Hall? Just waiting to get the call to go to Raymond? They certainly didn't escort Acting Mayor Bluntson.

ChrisCavanaugh

Mar 8 2007

I imagine she was recused because she recused herself after she presided over the guilty plea. When she recused herself, she put herself in a position where she was could not really claim that there was no reason to recuse herself (in legal language, she was estopped). There was a judge in Meridian last fall (chancellor) who recused herself from a couple of her opponent's cases but then refused to do so on any more cases. But her earlier recusal was basically an admission that she had cause to recuse herself. The Mississippi Supreme Court reversed her and made her get off her opponent's cases.

Jennifer2

Mar 8 2007

The funny thing is that this shouldn't be alarming. Another judge should step up who cares about whether or not Melton is violating bond and probation, or endangering himself or others. The difficult part is the public's lack of confidence that this will happen.

DonnaLadd

Mar 8 2007

Is the Mayor still under probation or was his sentence also vacated? Do the terms of his probation remain in affect or will an appointed Judge (who appoints new Judge?) be asked to look over the sentence and conditions and keep them as they are or change them?

JenniferGriffin

Mar 8 2007

Well I am going to assume that no matter who the new judge is, the probation violations will stand, and a new arrest warrent will be issued. The question is how long that process will take. And how long will Melton fight this out, I don't see a winning solution for him.

GLewis

Mar 8 2007

Remember my words from a few days ago. I said that the Sup.Ct. is pro-Melton. Here you go. What a shame. We will remember this come election time, Justices.

LawClerk

Mar 8 2007

Justice Cobb is on her way out anyway and she will be replaced by a woman.

diesel

Mar 8 2007

Would some Hinds Co Deputy or Highway patrol have the guts to pull Dale Danks over for not wearing a seat belt. It is the law! For everyone! He is not mayor!

pikersam

Mar 8 2007

I've been saying that he wouldn't remain in jail. I've said that justice is reserved for the rich and powerful. Melton's proved it, and destroyed my hometown in the process. No judge will rearrest him, and that little deal in April is as good as over. It was a nice town, too. Too bad it's gone.

Ironghost

Mar 8 2007

Did anyone see the WAPT footage of Melton returning home? They had a brief interview with him after he got out of the car, and he said he would be back to work tomorrow, business as usual. (Hmm.) Anyway, they asked him about his hospital stay, and he said that the doctor kept him because his potassium level was 3.2 when it should have 4.0 (gonna look that up) an that his blood pressure. As for the jail stay, he said he spent today cleaning three bathrooms. I'm sure they'll show it again tonight.

LatashaWillis

Mar 8 2007

I feel as though I've fallen down Alice's rabbit hole, where nothing makes sense and everything is what it isn't and all of it is madness. P.S. Alcoholics often have low potassium levels.

jasp

Mar 8 2007

I think stress and metabolism can mess with your potassium too. Interesting point though.

pikersam

Mar 8 2007

Okay, WebMD says a normal potassium level is 3.5-5.0. This is called hypokalemia. According to Answers.com, a couple of the causes of hypokalemia can be caused by taking diuretics (could be for high blood pressure) and alcoholism. Perhaps the combination of both of these could have contributed to the problem. Check this out: Moderate hypokalemia may be defined as serum potassium between 2.5 and 3.0 mM, while severe hypokalemia is defined as serum potassium under 2.5 mM....In emergency situations, when severe hypokalemia is suspected, the patient should be put on a cardiac monitor, and respiratory status should be assessed. If laboratory test results show potassium levels below 2.5 mM, intravenous potassium should be given. In less urgent cases, potassium can be given orally in the pill form. Based on this info, if Melton's potassium level was 3.2, it would have been considered mild and a pill would have been enough. Of course, since he had heart surgery, maybe the doctor was being extra cautious since his blood pressure was supposedly up. I wonder if McMillan was told any of this, which may be why the arrest was delayed until he got out of the hospital.

LatashaWillis

Mar 8 2007

LW it was all about the benjamins as to why they waited to arrest him. They were ready to go Tuesday; but it would cost the tax payers to pay his medical bills. Melton should thank his lucky stars he didn't have to clean 9 bathrooms!

pikersam

Mar 8 2007

You know - I am from Mississippi and visit Jackson frequently -- I follow the news there - because my family lives here still. When I lived there, Dale Danks was the Mayor (awesome Mayor) - and I have always gotten the sense that Frank Melton is trying to straighten up this city. The fact that he is still there - fighting, says a lot. Honestly - I don't know many who would be this committed. I hope he succeeds in making Jackson safe and even better! Good Job, Mayor Melton! It's good to see you have support there. The Danks' Team is brilliant... Good job!

cita

Mar 8 2007

If I was Melton's doc I wouldn't let him out of the hospital with a potassium of 3.2 considering he just had a bypass and a defibrillator.

GLewis

Mar 8 2007

LW it was all about the benjamins as to why they waited to arrest him. They were ready to go Tuesday; but it would cost the tax payers to pay his medical bills. I forgot about that. Thanks. There is just too much to keep up with right now.

LatashaWillis

Mar 8 2007

well, some of us were criticized a little for being anti green yesterday. not really, we were just commenting on her actions. I have a law degree, one poster is a law clerk at least, and we had another attorney on here and all of use were having problems with her removing papers although we didn't really get into the recusal issue much. Green can blame this one on herself. Sloppy for recusing herself and expecting to carry on and sloppy in her paperwork filing and then removal. She made her a legal laughinstock nationwide. Good job. Frankly Melton AND Green have embarrassed this state as well as the rest of us. A pox on both of you!!!

Kingfish

Mar 8 2007

Cita, I recall Danks. He wasn't that special. Melton can't follow the law, so how's he supposed to enforce it? Forget it. It's pointless.

Ironghost

Mar 8 2007

Iron - Well, when Dale Danks was Mayor, there were problems, yes - however - we certainly didn't have the crime rate, or the drug problem we have now. Perhaps that is a sign of the times, but my daddy always said... FIRST.... You have to GET THEIR ATTENTION. You certainly can't argue that Frank has done that. I just believe he is trying... and for the record - Dale Danks did a lot for Jackson.. in my humble opinion, he had Jackson's best interests at heart.

cita

Mar 8 2007

"I guess if you are a black attorney and disparage the court you get disbarred. If you are white then you can just accuse the Judge of anything!" You can't seriously be comparing Lumumba showing his ass to Judge Gordon, to what Danks filed in his motions. Dale did everything right on this one, and got a great result for his client. And describing Dale as "white" is a bit of a stretch, isn't it?

Curt Crowley

Mar 8 2007

Hit tip to Kingfish and lawclerk, etc... ;-)

pikersam

Mar 8 2007

Curt - Dale is still tanned, eh? I'm sure that's what you meant!

cita

Mar 8 2007

I find it amazing that Waller forced Judge Green to step down from the case but did not give any legal basis for his decision. Something is definitely not right. Also, have we forgotten that both Graves and Diaz dissented? Finally, I personally do not believe that Waller should have even considered Melton's motion. Waller has an obvious conflict of interest. Lest we forget that his brother is a will and pleasure employee of Frank's. That's right folks, Jackson Municipal Court Judge Waller is Supreme Court Justice William Waller's brother. Now if that isn't a conflict I don't know what is. William knows that if Frank goes, so does his brother's job. And we all know that Frank would not hesitate to fire a municipal court judge (see former Judge Oran Page). Justice Waller should have never even heard the Melton case. It stinks to high heaven. Judges should avoid even the appearance of impropriety. This is not just an appearance, Stevie Wonder could see that something is not right.

thetruth

Mar 8 2007

Pikersam, knock that crap off. First of all, Danks made his claim in a motion. A little theatrical but nothing slanderous. Your friend made his claim in open court and accused the judge of being on the take and went on a tirade, as shown by the transcript. Green also didn't help her case by running her trap AGAIN to a reporter. Remember when I argued with some of you about her comments backing up against Justice Smith when Faye quarreled with him and I said she was out of line for making those comments? Apparently she could keep her mouth shut and it cost her this week. Next time read the damn judicial canons I post on here. I don't care what color you are, go make a comment about a judge like that in his courtroom and you will get sanctioned.

Kingfish

Mar 8 2007

Take Waller off the case and it's still a 6-2 decision Melton's way. Waller's recusal could not possibly effect the outcome of the decision.

Curt Crowley

Mar 8 2007

Cita: We also didn't have the population. We had more people who respected the law. Now, we have less people in Jackson who don't care one way or the other. Melton hasn't done anything to help Jackson. I won't bring up economic development; I don't want to embarrass you.

Ironghost

Mar 8 2007

Apparently it was 9-0 on the recusal. And it was Green who recused herself in the first instance. One can hardly blame the Supremes for holding her to it. The recusal was a foregone conclusion given that she had already recused herself in Melton's case.

Jennifer2

Mar 8 2007

They did accuse her of larceny. Melton's people accuse her of horrible things and of being "cuzzins" with the probation officer -once again talking up a ladies skirt! Notice a pattern with women folks! They distributed flier's and called her a crook by their implications of bias. All at the behest of paid City employees! Hello! Doesn't the high court have a responsibility to uphold the respect of the judicial office regardless if the Judge made a error? Or is there more to the story. Unfortunately, Melton is allowed to continue to misalign anyone he wants with no repercussions. What is the message is that?

pikersam

Mar 8 2007

BTW: Don't tell me what to do!

pikersam

Mar 8 2007

I don't think Melton has the capabilities of changing his behavior. He is either a substance abuser or has an emotional illness that causes him to not be able to control his impulses. This is a sad day for Jackson.

realtime

Mar 8 2007

Iron -- Dale Danks was a THREE TIME MAYOR and MADE HISTORY - so don't even start with me. If you think talking about economic development will embarrass me... THINK AGAIN. I remember him from the flood in 1979 and he worked night and day to help this city. My husband was a member of the Jackson Fire Department and I was there - and saw how tirelessly he worked. I remember many things that he did, some reported and some not. I don't give one flying leap whether you believe Melton has done anything for this city... at least he takes a stand. if he had a brain one in his head he would leave but he is still in there, determined to help this city.

cita

Mar 8 2007

Iron -- Dale Danks was a THREE TIME MAYOR and MADE HISTORY - so don't even start with me. If you think talking about economic development will embarrass me... THINK AGAIN. I remember him from the flood in 1979 and he worked night and day to help this city. My husband was a member of the Jackson Fire Department and I was there - and saw how tirelessly he worked. I remember many things that he did, some reported and some not. I don't give one flying leap whether you believe Melton has done anything for this city... at least he takes a stand. if he had a brain one in his head he would leave but he is still in there, determined to help this city.

cita

Mar 8 2007

Not only is it a sad day for Jackson but a sad day for the state of Mississippi. What takes years to build can be destroyed in, how long has Melton been in office? A little over a year. Regards, Larry

Larry

Mar 8 2007

Pike: I was clearly referring to Dank's conduct in his capacity of a lawyer representing his client. You lost that round so you threw in all the other Melton crap knowing that is a whole different matter.

Kingfish

Mar 8 2007

If you listened to Kim Wade today you would know the midset I am coming from. I'm not the only one with raised eyebrows. Do I buy it wholeheartedly, no. But, if you don't think folks at the highest levels of our government don't delight in our misery at the behest of racism then you are fooling yourself. Yes, it was the Danks team that first lobbed the "criminal" tag to the court and in the press. Is Judge Green the first judge to ever make an error? And, without Danks where are Melton's people going to get their marching orders?

pikersam

Mar 8 2007

Cita, I'm tired and bored silly with reading about how people can delude themselves into thinking Melton has done something for Jackson. I'm quitting after this, so listen closely. Danks did fine during the flood of 79. Big Whoop. Otherwise, I can't think of an accomplishment. Melton's coming up on two years now, and can't keep himself out of the courts long enough to come up with any plan whatsoever for restoring order to Jackson. He cannot do it, and he most certainly doesn't have the help he needs in JPD. JPD is underfunded, understaffed, and certainly under-lead. "Mom" needs to step down, if she can't tell our Misdemeanor-in-Chief to sit down and shut up. Jackson has gone now where in 20 months under Melton. End of Story.

Ironghost

Mar 8 2007

Exactly IG! In fact, can we name any new projects that are coming to Jackson besides the few that are related to the GoZone tax incentives, which expired for new construction. One has to wonder if we would even have half of the projects had Katrina not happened? GoZone has a small construction window, so I hope they get these cranes going downtown soon. The proof will show in how many businesses still come to Jackson without GoZone incentives, and how many businesses can Melton retain with his current crime plan, his current chief, his clique, and his management style. Can you name any projects that wouldn't be happening if we had anyone else as mayor?

pikersam

Mar 8 2007

So what's next? Does this go to Judge Webster? Does it go to Yerger? Judge Webster would be the only person that I think would do something here, because nothing is on the line for him. Yerger won't, neither will Kidd who couldn't recuse himself fast enough, and Delaughter... Well, I'm not sure with Delaughter. He *might*. I saw the Melton 'press conference' when he arrived at his house. It's simply amazing. I never thought that this Melton mayorship would have gone so far south so quickly. And then, to see everyone that supports him no matter what. I think we could have video of him doing a major crime, and people would still support him. I feel like our court system really let the people of Mississippi, and Jackson specifically, down. I'm not passing blame on Green for doing what she did. Anyone can get caught making a procedural error when *everyone* is looking at you under a microscope, it just frustrates me. And why don't we have more of an opinion as to why they reversed like they did? Does this mean that another Judge is going to have to file a warrant? Does it mean that his probation violations go out the window and he starts over? Ugh... I wish I had taken the 'red' pill.

LawClerk

Mar 9 2007

Amen, Law Clerk! If a Judge, with jurisdiction, does not issue a warrant for a revocation hearing on Melton's probation, then I believe we are all in trouble. My faith in our judicial system will be greatly damaged and my hopes for the future of Jackson will receive an additional 'crushing'.

ChrisCavanaugh

Mar 9 2007

Iron - Why don't you or Pike run for Mayor the next time it's up? If you and Pike are so unhappy with the current situation, get your grits and GO...Perhaps there is someone out there who can do a better job, but Melton is what you have for now and his methods may not be orthodox but he is at least trying to fight crime. And for the record, it was a BIG WHOOP with the FLOOD of 79. I won't even start listing other accomplishments under the Danks Administration, because as you said, you are through after your last comment. I think everyone agrees that Jackson needs change, and Mayor Melton is trying. Let him do his job and then vote someone else in if you are unhappy. They need to stop trying to drive him out.

cita

Mar 9 2007

Cita, I don't know how long you have been gone or why you left, but times have changed. Yes, Danks was a good mayor. But, since his second defeat to Ditto he has not demonstrated any love for Jackson. He has made a fine living suing Jackson. His behavior has been more like one bent on vengeance. He moved his restaurant, his office, and his residency out of Jackson. Melton is what we have but I disagree he is trying to help change the crime situation for the better. If you have any knowledge of cults or of dysfunctional families, or even gangs, think about them and the blind loyalties required for them to prosper. All usually fall apart when the strong central figure is removed. We are currently a dysfunctional city. It is directly related to Melton and his policies and hand-picked people. Most are not only unqualified for the positions he has placed them in but are unable to minimally function in the City's best interest. These people may be well-intentioned but are inappropriately and unfairly placed and have no inkling of what is expected of them nor of the legal parameters in which they must operate. There are few qualified people left working within many of the departments. Crime is escalating at a rapid pace under Melton and this is directly related to his policies. I agree that pay needs to be raised for both fire and police departments, but you can not attract personnel when you do not have the best and experienced chiefs you can afford. Since you understand fire departments, do you understand that he is trying to place an under-qualified person as confirmed Chief? How many areas is this acting Chief qualified in? Do you believe we could lose our ratings and consequently suffer an increase in insurance rates not to mention the possibility of unnecessary additional loss of life because of this, both in the firefighter ranks and in the general population?

ChrisCavanaugh

Mar 9 2007

cita: "Perhaps there is someone out there who can do a better job, but Melton is what you have for now and his methods may not be orthodox but he is at least trying to fight crime." cita, how has he fought crime? Out of all the illegal roadblocks and other activities the mayor has done there was one "arrest" that he did for a $10 bag of weed that will be thrown out because he's not a certified police officer. Understand that there are 6 to 10 real police officers he's tying up when he goes on these night time joyrides because he needs them for protection. Also, the number of JPD officers has dropped by 40. The number of SWAT team members has gone from 21 when Johnson was in office to 12. What numbers, facts or figures do you have to back up your claim that melton is such a crime fighter?

Cliff Cargill

Mar 9 2007

I agree with you totally on the point of placing well qualified people in the key departments such as police, fire department chiefs. You are correct in the ramifications of having less than qualified people in those positions. That situation should be corrected... but if he steps down, will the next person do that? I never said he was perfect, just that he seemed to be trying. I only have knowledge of what I have seen when I'm down there - which averages a visit every two months or so. However, it is disgraceful to see my home (I still feel it's home) in the national news and as usual,, we are portrayed as bumbling fools. Did the crime problem JUST start when Melton was sworn in? Did he import the gangs? Did he build the crack houses? I love the saying, be careful what you wish for......and the voters of Jackson voted him in. Now you have him - let him serve his term, but certainly, utilize your free speech and send him your comments and suggestions. Find someone you feel would do a better job and campaign for him during the next election.

cita

Mar 9 2007

Cliff - I stand by my belief. It's perfectly okay for both of us to have our opinions - and I firmly believe in our election system -- NEXT TERM- throw the guy out and put someone else in. Easily done.....

cita

Mar 9 2007

I only have knowledge of what I have seen when I'm down there - which averages a visit every two months or so. However, it is disgraceful to see my home (I still feel it's home) in the national news and as usual,, we are portrayed as bumbling fools. Did the crime problem JUST start when Melton was sworn in? Did he import the gangs? Did he build the crack houses? As soon as Melton was sworn in, he began to dismantle the crime-fighting apparatus that Harvey Johnson had built up (and which was actually working), and the result was immediately apparent in the form of increased crime. So in a sense, yes, the crime problem JUST started when Melton was sworn in. I stand by my belief. It's perfectly okay for both of us to have our opinions - and I firmly believe in our election system -- NEXT TERM- throw the guy out and put someone else in. Easily done..... The offenses he's committed while in office are much too serious for us to wait until the next election to throw this clown out.

Tim Kynerd

Mar 9 2007

No, Melton did not build the 'crack houses' nor did drugs start with him. The gang suppression unit was established by Danks and disbanded by Ditto, so gangs had gained a foothold under Danks. Drugs and the parallel problems had increased nationally at that time Most of the 'crack houses' were built for rental income and several generations of whites benefited from this income then abandoned the houses or gave them to people who have since died. These houses have contributed greatly to the loss of quality of life in Jackson and other cities. Yet, the Constitution still stands and there are legal methods to destroy these structures. Breaking the law to destroy them does not help. Calling the Ridgeway Street duplex a 'crack house' does not make it a crack house. These assertions must be proved and certain safeguards of the Constitution must be followed prior to invasion and/or demolition. Some of us saw a glimmer of hope to escape the yoke of Melton and his blueprint for destruction. IF he serves out his term as Mayor, then Jackson will have totally ceased to be what you think of as 'home'. Yes, I have the greatest faith in being able to elect a better person next time; it would be hard to find anyone worse. Nevertheless, I am proud of our four Councilpersons having made the statements they did. It shows resolve and a plan of possible action. Perhaps some Judge will show resolve and re-issue the warrant for Melton. There is still a window of opportunity to save the City financially and to continue our future plans for economic development. But with Melton at the wheel all these 'balls in the air' will probably fall.

ChrisCavanaugh

Mar 9 2007

cita: "Cliff - I stand by my belief. It's perfectly okay for both of us to have our opinions - and I firmly believe in our election system -- NEXT TERM- throw the guy out and put someone else in. Easily done....." cita, respectfully, you made the statment that "that at least he's trying to fight crime..." I gavee you some eal facts, numbers and data to refute that. Opinions aside, what can you offer to back up that statement?

Cliff Cargill

Mar 9 2007

cita: "Cliff - I stand by my belief. It's perfectly okay for both of us to have our opinions - and I firmly believe in our election system -- NEXT TERM- throw the guy out and put someone else in. Easily done....." cita, respectfully, you made the statment that "that at least he's trying to fight crime..." I gavee you some real facts, numbers and data to refute that. Opinions aside, what can you offer to back up that statement?

Cliff Cargill

Mar 9 2007

BTW, this info about the JPD is all public record. Other than the illegal arrest made by the mayor, there's been nothing done by his entourage. That's not opinion, it's fact. The JPD is down in numbers. Again, silly public record I know... And, the SWAT is indeed down from 21 to just 12. Not my opinion, just more facts. What I'm looking for from you, as I'm sure most of us here are is for you to back up your statement about his crime fighting. Blue lights on TV and a black guy spred eagle being frisked doesn't do anything to fight crime. Opinion -vs- Facts....

Cliff Cargill

Mar 9 2007

Cita - I'm not trying to 'attack' your beliefs or feelings, I believe I did see in a previous post that you stated your husband was a fire fighter with JFD?! Many people that live in this city are angry at Melton for not only the lack of development but also the rise in crime, etc. while he spends his hours on the streets playing police officer rather than in his office working as it should be. But if you were still the wife of a JFD officer, please ask yourself if you would still believe in Melton! He pulled a rescue captain off of a truck and put him in the position of Chief. He (Chandler) had NO admin. background and had never worked on the admin. staff of the FD in any capacity. Chandler may be a nice guy, but IMHO he received the job as a 'favor' not because he was qualified. I don't know what your husbands rank was when he left, but ask yourself, how he would have felt if his chief came directly from the truck and was telling him how to do his job! This is just one of the situations that Melton has put this city in and of course you are aware of the ISO ratings - will they go up? Melton may seriously, in his own mind, believe he has the city as a first priority - but how can you say that when you surround yourself with those who are not competent or qualified for the positions you place them in. Melton routinely places 'yes' people in key positions in the city. That way he does not have to worry about the 'no's' for some of his tactics, legal or not. This is not just in the FD either, look at PD, city attorney office, etc.

Katie D

Mar 9 2007

"Misdemeanor-in-Chief " That's a keeper, right there. ;-)

millhouse

Mar 9 2007

"Did the crime problem JUST start when Melton was sworn in? Did he import the gangs? Did he build the crack houses?" Actually, the "crime problem" started under Dale Danks' watch. It rose right on through the Ditto experiment and finally slowed under the Johnson era. And, crime is STILL not Jackson's main problem. Crime is up EVERYWHERE. I heard on the radio this morning that it's up big time nationwide. But, only in Mississippi do we sit here and deride our only city as being some crime-infested hellhole while it compares favorably with just about any comparable city. Jackson's biggest problem is that it's landlocked. Most cities have areas in which to expand when parts of town go south. Jackson doesn't have that luxury. Throw in the fact that the "local" paper makes a daily, concerted effort to perpetuate their bullshit agendas against the city and you have a whole lot of scared sheep.

millhouse

Mar 9 2007

Cita, I believe that the main reason frank is "staying the course" is so he can draw attention away from the media circus he has brought to the city and shift attention away from his numerous court responsibilities. From someone who doesn't frequent the city too often, that is the "commitment" you are seeing from him. I have watched this man and his dellusions of fighting crime on television, and have also watched countless reels and clips of news footage where he has straight face lied to "his" public. I would hate to think what another two and a half years of this will bring to our city. I say force him out as soon as possible.

Jes

Mar 9 2007

say what you want...melton is out and i don't think that things are going to change for the better anytime soon. but dale danks, jr did what an attorney is supposed to do for his/her client! you guys/gals may or may not like it! i use to feel the same about lawyers...until i needed one!!!!! again, say what you want...dale danks, jr pulled one out of the hat and more power to him...all the lawyers on here should agree with that!

Big Tee

Mar 9 2007

Big Tee, I understand what you're saying, and a part of me is like "hell yeah!" but, at the same time, it frustrates me that the system works for certain people, and not others. I know people celebrated when OJ walked, but I didn't. I like to see criminals go to jail. I know that Melton is going to be "OJ'ed" because people are so in love with him. If Evans Welch had drugs on him when he had his house smashed up, he would be in jail. If I were to walk on a plane with a firearm, I'd be in jail. If you were to attack a house, in Madison, YOU would be in jail... or perhaps dead (castle doctrine!??!?). Think about this. If Evans Welch would have protected his house, under the Castle Doctrine, like we can ALL do... would he be in jail?

LawClerk

Mar 9 2007

all the lawyers on here should agree with that! Not really. My personal opinion is that Danks, in obtaining the best result possible for his client, went too far. There are limits to which one can go in zealously representing a client. After all, "[a] lawyer is a representative of clients, an officer of the legal system and a public citizen having special responsibility for the quality of justice." Miss. R. Prof. Conduct, Preamble.

Newt

Mar 9 2007

It's worth noting that crime surged under Dale Danks, during the crack epidemic, and then subsided considerably by the end of his term. Still, crime under Danks was higher than it was under Johnson, mirroring the national trend.

Brian C Johnson

Mar 9 2007

LawClerk, I feel you and everything you say is correct (but why do I have to be the one breaking in a house in Madison...you could had someone breaking in on me:-). It is frustrating and yes OJ DID DO IT!!!! I guess I am at the point were we are all going around and around chasing our tails on this subject. Their needs to be change but the question is who is going to step up and make the changes that are needed? It is a process that is going to take all of us working together, putting aside our differences and as I said yesterday...a lot of PRAYER! Some thing just can not be handled alone!

Big Tee

Mar 9 2007

wrong Brian. When we had over 100 homicides, it was in the early 90's under Ditto.

Kingfish

Mar 9 2007

Brian, You missed the point and I think you know that. Did I say anything about the crime rate under DD? Newt, the SC agreed with me...

Big Tee

Mar 9 2007

That's a good way to put it, and I do feel like I'm chasing my tail, as I'm sure most people that see the light would admit to that. I honestly don't know what else to say or do. Perhaps *this* will be the straw that breaks the camels back, and Melton, since he spent a night in jail will calm down and be a mayor, but I highly doubt it. I just don't know what to say or do anymore.

LawClerk

Mar 9 2007

i am not a lawyer and don't want to be one. but when i needed one in the past i am glad that he went to bat for me. Lord forbid, if i need one in the future i will still feel the same. again, we can go around and around with this...it is solving anything?

Big Tee

Mar 9 2007

Big Tee -- Actually, the MSSC made its decisions for unknown reasons. The basis for their decision could easily be that Judge Green should have had the probation reassigned when she recused herself from the Ridgeway case. That's a simple and straightforward argument to make that does include accusations of larceny or judicial misconduct. All it takes is a listing of her current recusal from Melton issues and then ask that she be recused from the probation oversight. Under the standard for judicial recusal, that was always the biggest issue to me: she recused herself from one and should have recused herself from the other. Moreover, just because Danks obtained the relief he sought does not mean his actions/arguments didn't go too far. Like anything else in life (and the law), there is a lot of interpretation to the Rules of Professional Conduct. That I chose to interpret them differently than Danks does not shock me: it isn't the first time (nor, I suspect, will it be the last time) that I interpreted the Rules differently than another attorney. Newt

Newt

Mar 9 2007

Cita, I challenge you to read the following: Breaking: Melton Appoints Bluntson as Mayor. Read story/comments by ladd. The entry was made on March 8, 07 @ 11:57am. Click on "a link to a profile of Melton....." This truly lays out melton's history in this community. I think that you have missed out on so many of the facts by living in another area. We get calls and letters similar to some of your thoughts, i.e., you have to get "their" attention first and GO GET 'EM" FRANK. The Constitution provides remedy for situations such as the one the City of Jackson is facing. We do not have to "wait and let him serve his term." This recommendation sounds like an irresponsible mother telling her daughter to stay in a relationship that is physically and emotionally aabusive. "Just stay there until the kids are grown."

justjess

Mar 9 2007

It is cool Newt but from now on i will refer to myself as dorky dippindoodle :-)

Big Tee

Mar 9 2007

I thought about a poem we recited when I was in third grade. It's called Topsy Turvy Land. After watching the events unfold with Judge Green and the speedy release of melton, the poem gained meaning. I've been to Topsy Turvy Land, A place that's very funny; There, rich folks work hard all day, And poor folks have the money. There hot is cold and cold is hot. And what is think is thin; And what you see is seldom so. ALTHOUGH IT MIGHT HAVE BEEN. There are other stanza, but, I will spare you this time.

justjess

Mar 9 2007

Take Waller off the case and it's still a 6-2 decision Melton's way. Waller's recusal could not possibly effect the outcome of the decision. That may be true, but it is intriguing that he *signed* an order about recusal if he himself has a conflict of interest in the case. And who knows if his arguments might have swayed others. This is worrisome, if true. And I think it's really crappy that with the flurry of motions from Danks that they are not explaining their decision. It feels amorphous and political without an explanation of which grounds they are recusing her on: the November transcript? pulling the order back? the old jury-selection complaint? connections with PSC? And so on? The court if being irresponsible to just allow speculation about this, and about the judge. I mean, it's possible (if not likely) they are not concerned with her pulling back the order, which could mean that Danks indeed stepped over the line in his accusations of her. They need to explain these rulings in detail. Otherwise, it taints the process.

DonnaLadd

Mar 9 2007

so don't even start with me. That's a funny command. You're bringing up topics here that others have every right to challenge and disagree with if they want. Get over it.

DonnaLadd

Mar 9 2007

Well hopefully Judge Webster will be handle this case a little more carefully. As to the Ridgeway trials next month, there is no way 12 jurors from this county are going to convict Frank Melton, as much as he deserves to be locked up. Half the community hates him and the other half thinks hes the second coming.

snowjob

Mar 9 2007

Isn't it also true that there was a boatload of (white) flight during Danks' reign, not to mention many people sitting empty without economic development? I'm with Ironghost on this one. Danks didn't reside over glory days in Jackson.

DonnaLadd

Mar 9 2007

I won't even start listing other accomplishments under the Danks Administration, because as you said, you are through after your last comment. Cita, please do. Educate us. Ironghost may be through on this topic, but I'm not. Please tell us about Danks' accomplishments, especially in the arena of economic development in the city of Jackson.

DonnaLadd

Mar 9 2007

"Well hopefully Judge Webster will be handle this case a little more carefully. As to the Ridgeway trials next month, there is no way 12 jurors from this county are going to convict Frank Melton, as much as he deserves to be locked up. Half the community hates him and the other half thinks hes the second coming." Christ or Hitler?

Cliff Cargill

Mar 9 2007

Good point Cliff. I think its Hitler but I think that alot of people in this city would disagree with me on that one.

snowjob

Mar 9 2007

most of the white flight ocurred in early to mid 90's when Ditto was the mayor.

Kingfish

Mar 9 2007

I agree the public is entitled to an explanation of the Supreme Court's ruling in this case. Certainly Judge Green should be given an explanation aside from just a dismissal from the case, that I consider poor form, especially considering the attorney generals filings.

GLewis

Mar 9 2007

Big Tee, I wasn't talking to you, I was talking to Cita. Wrong Kingfish. I never said that crime was at an all-time high under Danks. I said that crime surged during his second term and later subsided. Dispute that if you want, though I have documentation. All I ask is that you dispute what I actually write instead of things that I do not write.

Brian C Johnson

Mar 9 2007

my bad...it is cool BCJ! signed...dorky dippindoodle :-)

Big Tee

Mar 9 2007

I am going to take the risk of seeming overly idealistic and/or naive. I just ran across this great quote from Thomas Jefferson: "I think we have more machinery of government than is necessary, too many parasites living on the labour of the industrious." All these courts, and the wrangling over these technicalities distract us from the fact that people in the city are suffering. They have no jobs, many that do pay so little they can never get ahead. Violence is epidemic. Despair has become the norm in our city. People are dying from ignorance. It is time to stand up. Mayor-it is time to resign. Judges- do your jobs correctly or resign. Council- act like leaders and DO something. You have all become distractions and parasites.

Willezurmacht

Mar 9 2007

I thought from what you wrote you were stating the really big surge occurred under Danks. I stand corrected.

Kingfish

Mar 9 2007

Something is up! I'm no fortune teller, but, something is up. Just jogging my memory of the statements from frank and danks, they were just a little bit too cool. Danks also said that Ellen (Dr. Ellen Melton) frank's "wife" visited him in the jail. He didn't say when. I beleieve that there is a deal on the line involving long-term treatment and Ellen has been asked to helf facilitate in some way. I expect frank to resign. Where is Councilman Tillman? Someone need to work out a plan for him, also. He had a good career with JPS and should nowbe on the bank of the river fishing. Stokes is mean spirited: Bluntson is _________ but, Mr. Tillman is being lead by the WILD. I no longer think that 50% of the people in Jackson support frank. His support is definitely waning. For the second "FREE FRANK RALLY" to attract only twenty or thirty people, this speaks volume. Also, most of the participants were employees of the City. Despiration continues from those who fit the individuals so eloquently described in Willezurmacht's post. The" parasites" continue to pumb him up to keep their comforts coming.

justjess

Mar 9 2007

They need to explain these rulings in detail. - Ladd Agreed. My question is this, will the Mayor and his attorneys ask for - have legal grounds to ask for - a new judge to take a second look at his original probation if Judge Green was ruled bias in allowing that probation and guidelines to begin with? It seems that this is where everyone has leaned, in spite of no comments from the MSSC. Could a new judge be asked to review and determine that under the circumstances the probation and guidelines were incorrect, rule differently and determine that the Mayor has followed everything and has served his probation - be finished now? Danks is an excellent attorney and without specific comment from the MSSC, could this not be a new strategy?

JenniferGriffin

Mar 9 2007

Russell Davis, Danks, Ditto, Johnson, Melton . . . But the city still stays the same. Let's get back to the basics. When I was a child, I used to play in Battlefield park. We went to the movie downtown. I saved my coins to buy computer games for my Commodore 64 at a store in South Jackson. Ate at the Green Derby. Got groceries at Sunflower. Went to JPS and got a GREAT education and a good college scholarship. Actually played in the JPS orchestra (back when music programs were properly funded.) My class read on grade level, and we were fully integrated and got along. This was not that long ago. I am happy to hear about the developments and renovations downtown, but they arent going to help the majority of Jacksonians who cant even afford a decent meal or a reliable car, much less preventative health care. The discussions regarding the current mayor and the previous ones just show that leadership has not made much REAL progress over the past several years. The problems are much deeper, and voting for any one person is not going to solve the problems. I dont have the answers, Im willing to help though. Our current adminstration needs to help. And the best way to do that is to get out of the way. I am fired up about all this. I drove to my old neighborhood, where my mom grew up, and saw what has happened to all those that were left behind. We have got to quit worrying about gentrifying a few blocks downtown and put some resources into lifting more people up. Ill quit ranting now.

Willezurmacht

Mar 9 2007

I know that this is off the Melton topic but is the JFP going to endorse anyone in the Hinds County DAs race? I assume that y'all are supporting Faye but if not I think y'all should look at Michelle Purvis. She is very qualified and the District Attorney's Office needs a new direction.

snowjob

Mar 9 2007

Shaun: DUCK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! heavy incoming fire!!!!

Kingfish

Mar 9 2007

any chance where the SC will issue a more thorough order where it explains it decisions? I know sometimes at trial court level a decision is issued then later on a written order explaining the decision is issued.

Kingfish

Mar 9 2007

They may or may not fish, I am going say that they will not because this thing is too politicizied. Remaining silent on their reasoning really covers their asses come election time. And oh did I mess up by suggesting endorsement of someone other than Faye? Well when you deal with that bunch over there all the time then you really can understand why things have to change for the good of the county.

snowjob

Mar 9 2007

We are nowhere near the point of thinking about endorsements, Shaun. As for Ms. Purvis, my initial reaction to her is that she seems like a Melton puppet (and that's based in part on things he's said to me about her that we'll report in detail at some point). The burden of proof is going to be on her, as far as I'm concerned, to show that she is not being put there to be another Sarah O'Reilly Evans or Shirlene Anderson. You should also explain why you think the district attorney's office needs a new direction. That's the kind of vague rhetoric that got us into this mess with Melton, and we are going to hammer people for specifics throughout this election season. This time, I suspect, a lot of citizens are going to follow our lead.

DonnaLadd

Mar 9 2007

Shaun, It's way too early for endorsements in any of the races, but I think it's safe to say that Ms. Purvis' close ties to Melton/Hickingbottom/Parker-Weaver would make us skeptical. At present, Purvis is supposed to be the designated attorney for City Council. If she fails to fulfill her duties in that regard, I can guarantee that she would not get our endorsement. Finally, Purvis has "handled" many public records requests submitted by this paper and sometimes rejected them for extremely dubious reasons. For instance, by interpretting the "personnel" exemption in the Public Records Act so broadly that it could be used to reject almost any request. This would also factor into our considerations.

Brian C Johnson

Mar 9 2007

Jinx, Brian. ;-) You answered it better anyway.

DonnaLadd

Mar 9 2007

Well I didn't realize that she was so closely tied to Melton, I have heard that Robert Smith is tied closely to Melton. Donna, when I say I think they need a new direction is for several reasons. 1) I do not have accurate figures on this but I do believe that their conviction rate is somewhere in the mid-60s, which is much lower than the national average which is about 88% and again I would have to double check that because this is from memory only. 2) If you like you can poll all of the criminal defense lawyers in this community and 90% of them will agree that this DAs office is the toughest to deal with in terms of getting anyting effectively done in a timely matter and when I say that I mean trial settings, discovery, plea negotiation, etc. 3) go and talk to criminal lawyers throughout the state and ask them their opinion on dealing with the Hinds County DAs office when compared with dealing with Bilbo Mitchell's office in Lauderdale County or Mark Duncan's office in Neshoba County or Cono Caranna's office in Harrison and even Doug Evans' office in Grenada. I am not asking you to take my word for it, just ask around.

snowjob

Mar 9 2007

Shaun, I think you are probably right, but don't we have a much heavier case loan/attorney than the others? Referencing crime under Danks: We had one of the worst serial killers (Wayne Williams) loose part of that time, and Anna Laura Herrin was also kidnapped. If you had a CB radio in your car you were a sitting target for having it ripped out. Drugs were increasing and no doubt, white flight began. The fire fighters and policemen loved Danks and worked well with him. Of course, the Flood of 1979 was a hallmark of his tenure. Form of government in the City also changed. Don't remember exactly when the Jackson Mall (now the Medical Mall) closed but it was probably on his watch. By far the biggest economic blow to the City was Danks' bowing to a few homeowners regarding Northpark Mall's location. It was supposed to be on the south side of County Line and instead, it was built in what is now Ridgeland and provided the tax base for Ridgeland's growth. Lakeland Drive started allowing build-up after the Flood of 1979 and this created an additional tax drain from the City. Danks became increasingly removed from the general public and was preceived as arrogant and lost to Ditto.

ChrisCavanaugh

Mar 9 2007

Yeah I am sure that the case load is heavier but their are more ADAs here than in the rest of the state to handle it & it still doesn't explain the disparity in conviction rates.

snowjob

Mar 9 2007

We had a little bit of this discussion last year when our D.A. was blasting Jim Smith and complaining about how little support she received from state and county. It was then discussed how she has the heaviest caseload. Truth is, we don't know how heavy it is. I'd like to see it broken down as cases per prosecutor so we can exactly how heavy their caseload is to other counties. It might be the heaviest or lightest, we don't really know because gross totals can be misleading.

Kingfish

Mar 9 2007

TRue enough Chris. Some posters on this site bash the suburbs but ignore or forget the fact that it was Jackson who chased some lucrative businesses out to the suburbs. North Park is a prime example of stupid actions taken by Jackson in the not to recent past.

Kingfish

Mar 9 2007

JustJess - challenge accepted and I read it -- didn't change my belief. It's great that we can disagree cordially, however, I would NEVER tell my daughter to stay in an abusive relationship, as I am sure you would not. If there is a forum, other than a witch hunt, to remove a Mayor the public feels is not doing his job, then by all means, if the majority feels that is the case. It appears that being the Mayor of Jackson is a thankless job and I'm not sure why he does not resign. He appears to be determined to honor his committment and there is definitely something to be said for that.

cita

Mar 9 2007

It could be a reason other than honoring his commitment, cita. Shaun, I don't think that Robert Smith *used* to be closely tied to Melton, but he certainly is now on the Ridgeway case. Remember that he was on the opposite side during Batman et al's trial. A very odd night was the eve of that trial when I was at Melton's house for the ridealong (the night he cooked chicken and the chief cleaned up). Robert Smith walked in, which surprised me immensely, because the next day the Batman trial was set to start with Smith defending Benton, and Melton was doing everything he could to get them put away. Christopher Walker (Melton's star witness in that trial) was there, too, of course. I don't know who looked more uncomfortable—Walker or Smith. Smith truly seemed befuddled as to why Melton asked him there, especially when he saw me and my photographer. He and Melton did go out on the deck, or porch, to talk for a bit, but I didn't see anything particularly weird happen—other than the fact that he was there. I've really liked Smith since I first met him (and his brother), and boy does he have a great history (grandfather R.L.T. Smith). I believe he's a good person. I hope he's not being used in a way that hurts him in the long run. As for your reasons for being against Peterson, thank you for giving specifics. I note that there isn't a lot of evidence behind your statements, but it does give us stuff to look into. I appreciate it. For the record, preliminary research shows that Peterson's success record is better than her predecessor's, especially with certain kinds of cases. But we'll let you know everything we find. Keep an eye out. And please keep sharing what you hear (specifically) so we can find out if it checks out. A lot of false rumors fly in this town—worse than anywhere I've ever seen—that just gets taken as the gospel. I assume that because our mainstream has been so hideous and gullible.

DonnaLadd

Mar 9 2007

I just added the request from Yerger to the Supreme Court to reassign Melton's probation to a new judge. There's no surprise here, but it is kind of fun to read all the Hinds County circuit judges recusing themselves. Some of them might as well penciled in "Hell no!" at the bottom.

Brian C Johnson

Mar 9 2007

that's funny BCJ, made me chuckle

cita

Mar 9 2007

"Hell, no, we won't go!" Can't blame them. Really.

Lady Havoc

Mar 9 2007

On a different note, it seems like a waste of time to assign the case to yourself when you're just going to recuse yourself from the case. IANAL, so I don't understand why he would have to go through the paperwork.

Lady Havoc

Mar 9 2007

It is cool Newt but from now on i will refer to myself as dorky dippindoodle :-) Oh, so you found it. Nice name! Signed, Tootsie Farkletush I just added the request from Yerger to the Supreme Court to reassign Melton's probation to a new judge. There's no surprise here, but it is kind of fun to read all the Hinds County circuit judges recusing themselves. Some of them might as well penciled in "Hell no!" at the bottom. I heard about that on WAPT several minutes ago. Nobody wants to touch this with a ten-foot-pole. I guess the chance of losing votes is entirely too scary for them.

LatashaWillis

Mar 9 2007

Actually Donna, As to the Robert Smith-Melton connection, I have a very reliable source on that one and its true they are close. Apparently Melton is a frequent vistor at Smith's office.

snowjob

Mar 9 2007

cita, I'm glad you're laughing and such, but have you found any facts other your opinion to back up anything you've said about melton's crime fighting? Anything?

Cliff Cargill

Mar 9 2007

Go ahead, we'll wait.

Cliff Cargill

Mar 9 2007

Actually Donna, As to the Robert Smith-Melton connection, I have a very reliable source on that one and its true they are close. Apparently Melton is a frequent vistor at Smith's office. Well, now, they're deep in the Ridgeway case, right? Although Smith is not Melton's attorney, right? He's the bodyguards' attorney?

DonnaLadd

Mar 9 2007

When your "boys" are always in trouble with the law for armed robbery/carjacking (Michael Taylor), 13 failed drug tests (while in Melton's house/care), and felony gun possession (a parole violation resulting in 8 years in jail - Jeremy Bibbs) among a list of others; you probably see the inside of many criminal defense atty's offices! LOL!

pikersam

Mar 9 2007

ladd, who do you think is paying for Recio and Wright's defense? LOL! Melton is a defense attorney's dream. He's a cash cow for their industry!

pikersam

Mar 9 2007

Yeah he's the bodyguards attorney but his relationship with Smith has apparently existed for quite sometime, way before the whole Ridgeway mess. I do know more about this but I would rather not post it online, if you want I can email you the rest.

snowjob

Mar 9 2007

Please do, Shaun.

DonnaLadd

Mar 9 2007

Well, I was right about Kidd, didn't think Delaughter would recuse though... that is strange. Figured Yerger would. It amazes me that they all recuse themselves. They are elected as judges, yet the only one that would do anything is Green. I truly hoped that Yerger would be replaced with Ogden... Not that I think Ogden was the end all be all, but at least he would not have recused himself. Ahhh... does anyone have the "red" pill!? PLEASE!!! I NEED IT NOW!!!!! My potassium is low!

LawClerk

Mar 9 2007

Cliff Darlin, relax. I said from the beginning it was my opinion - and I stand by it. Go pick a fight with someone else -- I'm just enjoying reading all the different opinions -

cita

Mar 9 2007

Cita, it's clear from Cliff's posts to you that he doesn't object to you having a different opinion. He's just asking you to back it up with facts. We do that a lot on this site, and it's not "picking a fight." When someone does that, there is no reason to tell them to "relax." It's a great chance, in fact, to help educate someone. And if you can't back up your opinions with facts, you weaken your argument by returning with your type of condescending reponse. It just looks like you can't back up your opinion. Just so you know.

DonnaLadd

Mar 9 2007

ladd - I appreciate that but I don't believe I ever implied that I had facts regarding Melton -- I said it appeared to me that he was trying... and I didn't mean my reply as condescending. My point was, I don't want to argue - I am enjoying reading the comments. If I lived there - perhaps I would be better informed. I was merely responding to his remarks, as follows "I'm glad you're laughing and such, but have you found any facts other your opinion to back up anything you've said about melton's crime fighting? Anything?" and "Go ahead, we'll wait."

cita

Mar 9 2007

cita wrote earlier: I don't give one flying leap whether you believe Melton has done anything for this city... at least he takes a stand. Fine. Many—I among them—who live here feel very strongly that Mr. Melton is damaging this city in dramatic ways that may take a long time, and a lot of money, to repair. If you're going to make such flippant comments (which doesn't sound like you're not here to argue), don't be surprised when people challenge you to back up your assertions about how he's "trying" or such. I, for one, do not believe he is "trying." I believe he enjoys going out on raids and playing cop with the young people of the inner city. I've gone with him and watched him delight in it. I didn't see a man who did a useful thing to help with crime. In fact, one one notable occasion, he loaded up the twin of a young man who had been shot and was dying at UMC. We drove around supposedly looking for the vehicle, and then doing killing time doing nothing, as his brother lay dying in the emergency room. Finally, the young man blew up at Melton insisting that he be taken back. That was simply one instance of all the "crime-fighting" that Mr. Melton was doing. Meantime, he reeked of liquor before and during the raid. So, pardon me if I'm concerned enough to challenge you to provide facts about your assertions about how hard he is "trying."

DonnaLadd

Mar 9 2007

Ladd, You know that you can't carry a gun while drunk, right? It's like driving while intoxicated. And, if they knew he was "abusing" alcohol, that is another reason to not give him a carry permit. You have to answer a question that you are not a habitual drug user or a habitual abuser of alcohol. Perjury here we come!

LawClerk

Mar 9 2007

LawClerk's perjury reference reminds me: has anything happened regarding damanges and penalities for Melton's perjury conviction in Meridian? FM was convicted of perjury and the jury deadlocked on damages? Anything happening on that front? (It's hard, aint it hard, to keep up with all melton's legal problems.)

jasp

Mar 9 2007

Cita, please don't get the wrong impression of us who are not fans of Frank. We're not here to beat up on you and we want to see you posting around for a long time. You did say that Frank is at least trying when it comes to fighting crime. I'm willing to meet you halfway there, but his trying has been a miserable failure so far. We've had state of emergencies issued, seen him on police raids and what results do we have? A crime rate that's at least the same, if not higher, than what it was when he took over. His administration has been full of empty promises. He promised us a plan that would reduce crime in 90 days. So far, no plan. He said last year that there were over a billion dollars in eco-devo plans on the table ready to be announced. So far, no announcement. Also, he promised a plan to put young people to work fixing up neighborhoods through the AFL-CIO. Where are the jobs? You also said: utilize your free speech and send him your comments and suggestions. Good luck. After all, this man didn't even listen to what Jim Hood said; what makes you think he'll listen to us rank-and-filers?

golden eagle '97

Mar 9 2007

Thanks Golden It sounds as if Frank had good ideas and plans - and I'm curious why they were never implemented. It doesn't sound as if going on raids with alcohol on your breath is effective and the event Ladd witnessed, when the young man's brother died, was horrific He must have to spend a lot of time battling his legal problems. If his heart is that bad, then he should stop the alcohol immediately and I'm sure his physicians have told him that. Aside from that - if there is another reason for his staying on other than committment, what could it be? Maybe Mr. Danks is correct and we will see a different Frank Melton. I will stay tuned.

cita

Mar 10 2007

It sounds as if Frank had good ideas and plans I'm going to annoy you again—with respect, I believe you mean well here—and ask you to detail to us what these "good ideas and plans" were. I and my staff covered his campaign closer than anyone, and we never got any specifics. He walked out of the campaign forum at the Medical Mall when he had the chance to give details of his plan to the neighborhood group. The closest I heard to plans during the whole campaign were these: 1. Promising to rich wives to put popular ex-chief Robert Johnson in a very high up role (above being in uniform) in his adminstration. (Johnson left the campaign.) 2. Promising to hip-hoppers to build them a recording studio on Farish Street. (Has never happened.) 3. Promising the wives that he had Lott and Cochran ready to give him federal grants to fund a vague line-up of programs to get young people off the street. (They told us this wasn't true.) 4. Working with the unions to get young people to rebuild housing. (Seen that happen yet?) 5. Getting young men to "pull the pants up on their butts and give their earrings to their sisters." (This hasn't even happened in his inner circle.) 6. Fire the last police chief, who happened to have a crime plan and was presiding over dropping crime. (Didn't have to; he quit.) I'm not being flip here. I really want people to tell us what Mr. Melton's "plans" were. It is important at this juncture for people to realize that they supported someone who never had a plan to fight crime or anything. Or at least one that made a lick of sense—certainly conducting "raids" without warrants in the middle of the night, and not making arrests, is not helping a damn thing. Why would it?

DonnaLadd

Mar 10 2007

Ladd - I was actually referring to Golden's remarks when I said it sounds like he (Frank) had good plans and ideas. And you aren't annoying me in the least - I just hope you are equally as admanant about criminals running the streets of Jackson. I think you are passionate about Jackson, and I applaud that. I would like to ask a question, because I don't know the answer - why is the SWAT team down in numbers? Did they quit or are there no funds? Thanks -

cita

Mar 10 2007

I just hope you are equally as admanant about criminals running the streets of Jackson. No, cita, I love criminals running loose in Jackson. Doh. What kind of statement is that? The problem is that Mr. Melton hasn't done anything to change that, and arguably has created a climate where there is less respect for the law. He likes to surround himself with young criminals, and those at high risk. That may be an admirable thing—I agree with him that they need help and attention before they commit a crime, or another crime. Fighting crime must be holistic and focus at least as much on prevention, and education, and decreasing recidivism, and lessening poverty as it does on law enforcement and incarceration. He seems to know that. However, he doesn't know what to do about it. Instead, he turns himself into a criminal in order to look like he's fighting crime to the people who vote for him. It's absurd, and people on the streets know it. The key, they will tell you, is to make sure that Melton likes you so you won't get in trouble when you get caught. Sadly, he seems to be running one big popularity contest out there, and it's a bit unclear what the criteria for being on Melton's good list is, as opposed to the bad one. Unfortunately, it seems that many on the good list keep committing crimes and getting caught, even some of those who live with him. And he seems to have gotten very little oversight over the years to ensure that he's not actually making the problems worse for some of these kids. Obviously, they need help and support, but it's not clear that Mr. Melton knows how to do that, even if he is well-meaning. I don't know the answer on the SWAT team, but I think some of my reporters might. I'll refer them to your question. I do know that the police force (and JFD) are suffering from a crisis in leadership with loyality and morale stooping to dangerous levels. Now, cita, I ask again: What are those "good ideas and plans" that led you to support Mr. Melton? I would really love to hear some specifics from you about why you believe he knows how to fight crime.

DonnaLadd

Mar 10 2007

And again, Ms. Ladd, I will tell you that I was quoting Golden Eagle in the reference to GOOD IDEAS and PLANS. Don't tell me that that I am condescending, I was NOT being condescending, but you obviously can't abide someone having a different OPINION (I was NOT aware that an opinion has to be supported by FACTS -- it is MY OPINION) ONCE AGAIN, my OPINION and we all know the quote about opinions. I still stand by it. BY THE WAY, condescending????? how about your response above "DOH. What kind of a statement is that?" I wasn't being sarcastic, but you were. And by the way, MS LADD, I believe that should have been DUH???? I have only seen you ranting and raving about Mr. Melton.... nothing else. However, perhaps I am incorrect -- I have only been reading the column in the last four days. I will turn to an honest news source from this point forward. I thought I had one here. Respond if you want, but I am not going to even look. I'm sure you will, because you readers will be looking... However, I won't. You are ridiculous and obviously on a witch hunt... Good luck and god bless.

cita

Mar 10 2007

Maybe if you would just read a few more articles it would help you debate, and "understand" Mr. Melton. I hope you make your own opinion on him after more research. However, to come here and say this and that about what some of us are posting without due diligence is troll-ish and a bit rude - even if that isn't your intention. This is a very fact-based place to blog. Please carry on as such....

pikersam

Mar 10 2007

Cita, I can abide different opinions. I do all the time. It is very important to ask people to back up rhetorical statements with specifics and facts. That's one I do all the time as moderator of this site that I have invited you to post on. On that note, you say that you're talking about Golden Eagle's examples of plans—but he didn't give any! Exact the opposite. You seemed to read his explanation that Melton has put out a lot of rhetoric about solving crime in 90 days WITHOUT a plan as somehow saying he had specific plans. But then you can't, or won't, name those specifics that you think are so great. Otherwise, you seem to not take responsibility for your own caustic words and then attack people for responding or asking you to back up your statements. You made a ridiculous statement above directly to me—"I just hope you are equally as admanant about criminals running the streets of Jackson." Not only is that an attempt a at a logical fallacy (implying that I don't care about those criminals), but it is clearly an attempt at an insult. Now, I'm not insulted, but I do get to respond to such things. Beyond that, you are really stooping now with the "ranting and raving" comment. You clearly are completely ignorant about the role my newspaper has played in reporting the truth in this city. Take care. I don't mind seeing you leave at all. You want to say anything you want about others, and then have a hissy fit when you're challenged. You won't last long here with that kind of approach to "conversation." Conversation flows two ways, and all opinions are respected here, as long as they're respectful. Take care.

DonnaLadd

Mar 10 2007

You are ridiculous and obviously on a witch hunt... What witch hunt? All we want is for Frank to be accountable for the things he has done and what he promised during his campaign. He's having the legal problems he's having because of his own doing. As I said earlier, he didn't even listen to Jim Hood--the state attorney general, mind you--regarding the things he can't do, such as participating in police raids and carrying guns in places where they are not to be carried. Again, he openly defied the conditions of his probation set by Judge Green by staying overnight in an apartment unit (which he didn't get approval for and probably didn't even bother to get such approval). The apartment had children under 17 (which he cannot have contact with if they are not related to him) and he arrived there in the Mobile Command Unit (another violation). And let's not forget the most recent Upper Level incident, which again, he was not supposed to be out past midnight, and he did not notify his probation officer 48 hours prior to going there (and I doubt if the officer would've given him approval). You can say Frank is fighting crime, but fighting crime isn't taking a sledgehammer to a house that has never been designated as a drug house to begin with. There are ways to deal with things like that legally. All I want the mayor and every other public official to do is follow the law. So far, he hasn't demonstrated that he will. I can also echo Donna's sentiments about low morale in the JPD. I know several officers myself and each of those officers could care less about Frank. I also know many city employees who feel the same way. In all my 32 God-bless years, I'm not sure if I've ever seen an administration in this town reek of so much incompetence. I had high hopes for Frank when he came into office. But the first 20 months of his tenure have been both abysmal and an embarassment. I will hope, however, that the next 28 (if he makes it that far) will be much better.

golden eagle '97

Mar 10 2007

Nice post, Golden. It will never cease to amaze that so many of the people who like to scream the loudest about "personal responsibility" turn around and act like Frank Melton doesn't have to take any. I've never quite seen anything like it, although I assume it's this kind of blind hero-worship that has gotten the world into mammath messes through history. And it does him no favors, either. You can only guess people have spoiled Melton like this his entire life for him to be at this age and think that he can do anything he wants just because he wants to do it, and without regard to consequences. The Supreme Court didn't help shatter that illusion this week. (They really need to put out a document detailing their reasonings, or this ruling is going to look worse as time goes on.) And thank you for pointing out, once again, that there has been no evidence provided to date that the Ridgeway duplex was a "crackhouse." And even if it was, Melton still committed several crimes at it and in if it he did what he is accused of doing. What fool thinks you fight crime by tearing down a woman's rental house?

DonnaLadd

Mar 10 2007

Thanks for thanking me, Donna. :) But I have a sneaking suspicion that this will not be the last of Frank's shenanigans and that it may end badly, whether it's behind bars or even his own death. For the love of God, if he won't change for himself, at least he should do it for his family. I'd like to think his wife and children would want him around to grow old and see their grandchildren.

golden eagle '97

Mar 10 2007

Golden, I've been saying for two years now that this will end badly if people do not force Mr. Melton to take responsibility for his actions, and follow the law. Laws are there for a reason. To be honest, I'm blue in the face at this point, but that's OK. We've done everything we can do to date, and will continue. One must always do the right thing and wait. Mr. Melton is surrounded by enablers and, I believe, vultures who use him for what they want. I wish they acted like they care for him more.

DonnaLadd

Mar 10 2007

cita: "I was NOT being condescending, but you obviously can't abide someone having a different OPINION (I was NOT aware that an opinion has to be supported by FACTS -- it is MY OPINION) ..." cita, I have disagree with you; you can have a different opinion here. If you make statements people on this site will challenge them though. They'll ask you to back up what you say with facts. They'll ask you...who, What, WHERE, WHEN. I know, I've had my a$$ handed to me a couple of times. ladd and I have different views on many subjects. I am about as conservative as they come. I'm pro-gun, pro-life and pro-death penalty. That doesn't even scratch the surface of our opposing views. But, we do agree that the melton government shouldn't abuse its power; it clearly has. It's violated many parts of the US Constitution against its citizens(See Fourth Ammendment). It's also ignored many state laws regarding the mayor-council form of government that the city council has had to seek outside legal advice. That's wrong. City government shouldn't come down to a matter of "style", or "opinion". Or, it shouldn't be left to some nut who claims he's "trying to do his job". The goverment should, however, follow the laws that it expects its citizens to abide by. You wanna disagree with ladd, or anyone else here, do it. Just know there are lots of folks here who have been following this circus up close for a very long time. I didn't vote for melton because I couldn't. I don't live in Jackson. But, I would have voted for him a thousand times if I could have. I was fooled by his bullsh!t. And, I'm OK with that. I admitted I was wrong and moved on. Again, in a previous post you said: "that at least he's trying to fight crime..." And I asked how? You didn't say it was your opinion. You stated it as if it were fact and I'd like to know how you can back that up, because obviously you know something we all don't. So, I ask you again...how? How is melton trying to fight crime? Please explain to me who, What, WHERE, WHEN. I'll listen, really, I will. If you can qualify your statement with facts, heck I'd even be happy to know that he was actually doing something to fight crime. But, as ladd has explained, she and the JFP have worked long and hard to see the ugly truth up close. It ain't pretty either. She and her staff know more than all the other media outlets in town put together. They go way past meaningless sound bytes too, and they've certainly earned my respect. You can't get a feeling of what's going on in a 30 second TV blurb. They can't show you the reality for what it is. When you see melton's so-called "crime fighting", you're seeing a carefully scripted TV show. It usually goes something like this: "Here come the TV cameras! Hey, let's throw a black "thug"(see N-word)on the ground a rough him up a little bit to show suburbia we're a "crime fightin'". Go through his pockets too! If he resist our "crime fightin'" kick his a$$, it makes for great TV and they'll think we're really "doing our jobs." Whew.... I'm tired, hungry too... let's go crime fightin' at Char (A fine restaurant btw)." All 6 to 10 of them. That's about how it usually goes. cita, you're not a fool, but you're being fooled. Do some research on the subject of frank melton and quit being fooled by what you see on TV. There's plenty to read here that's an honest account of this horrible 18 month drama known as frank melton.

Cliff Cargill

2007-03-10T20:10:26-06:00

ID

126483

Comment

I'm shocked that Frank is still seen by many as some kind of hero. No, I don't know what kind of hero! Fictional, it must be, since there are no facts to substantiate it. My greatest fear is that he believes he's heroic too!

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-03-12T09:21:42-06:00

ID

126484

Comment

Ray, I know exactly what you are saying. It scares me that people will see TV spots and crappy C-L coverage and think Frank is "trying to do his job." What a joke. I'm glad the constitution protects us from ignorant citizens who see law breaking as acceptable if it's done by someone with "good intentions". And Cliff, nice post!

Author

Izzy

Date

2007-03-12T12:04:48-06:00

ID

126485

Comment

Frank's crime fighting plan is no better than a weak-kneed, can't fight deputy going into a bar and getting his ass whipped seven days a week, then, having his supporters and fans say "at least he's trying to do something." Trying to do what? I can barely laugh anymore. Too sad to be funny. Hiding in the hospital to avoid jail still blows my mind.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-03-12T12:44:35-06:00

ID

126486

Comment

Even the C-L has started to come around on Frank. They're scrambling hard to cover their tracks, considering they helped create this monster by declaring him the winner the moment he announced running for mayor.

Author

golden eagle '97

Date

2007-03-12T13:02:35-06:00

ID

126487

Comment

We let a naked man convince us he knew how to get us some clothes. We now know he doesn't know how to do anything well excepting getting from Carter's Grove to Lakeland. I hope we have enough ass left to fit clothing by the time Frank is finished with Jackson.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-03-12T13:23:32-06:00

ID

126488

Comment

Thanks Laurel. You too.

Author

Cliff Cargill

Date

2007-03-12T13:39:03-06:00

ID

126489

Comment

Sounds to me like he's pretty smart.

Author

hawm04

Date

2007-05-16T10:24:38-06:00