In the latest development in an escalating legal dispute, Big Bend Times has issued a new notice of tort and civil rights violations against Jeff Davis County officials, with the complaint delivered to the county attorney and their retained law firm, Windle Hood Norton Brittain & Jay, LLP. The law firm had already been hired by the county in response to prior tort claims stemming from alleged misconduct against Big Bend Times’ publisher.
The most recent notice outlines alleged constitutional violations under federal and state law, citing actions by County Judge Curtis Evans, Justice of the Peace Mary Ann Luedecke, and Deputies Jerry Walker and King Merritt. According to the complaint, on April 23, 2024, Judge Evans reportedly ordered Big Bend Times’ publisher to leave the Jeff Davis County Courthouse, enforced by threats of arrest from Deputy Walker. The publisher, who was calmly knocking on the Justice of the Peace office door during posted business hours, was seeking entry, as the office was unexpectedly locked. The publisher live-streamed the encounter, underscoring restricted access to a public office funded by taxpayer dollars. Deputy Walker allegedly followed him out, escalating the interaction by shouting and ending with a sarcastic “Have a nice day.”
The claim argues that this incident reflects both an abuse of authority and a misapplication of Texas trespass law, which does not permit arbitrary verbal orders restricting lawful access to public spaces without valid cause. The notice also contends that selective closure of the public office to Big Bend Times staff specifically violates First Amendment protections, highlighting what it describes as discriminatory practices within Judge Luedecke’s office.
This latest claim adds to ongoing allegations of harassment and misconduct by Jeff Davis County officials, which Big Bend Times describes as a sustained effort to stifle press freedoms and hinder transparency in the county. Observers from legal and media circles are closely watching the case, which raises significant questions about government accountability and civil liberties.
Big Bend Times remains committed to covering this unfolding story, which emphasizes critical issues regarding public officials’ conduct and the rights of the press in Jeff Davis County. The outcome of this dispute may set a precedent regarding transparency and protections for the press under the First Amendment.
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