Big Bend Times is no longer just covering the story — we are the story.
In the past year, our newsroom, our publisher, and our mission have come under direct attack by officials in Jeff Davis County. The charge: doing our job. Reporting facts. Asking hard questions. Exposing misuse of power.
Publisher David Flash was falsely arrested in 2024, after Judge Mary Ann Luedecke — the subject of multiple investigative reports by this outlet — accused him of harassment and, initially, of making a terroristic threat. That charge has since been dropped. The harassment charge remains, despite being based on demonstrably false claims, some of which are contradicted by video.
This isn’t just an attack on one reporter. It’s a coordinated campaign of retaliation against a media outlet that refuses to be silenced. And the public sees it for what it is.
As of this week, 318 people have donated to help defend Flash and support this publication’s legal fight, contributing $11,058 toward a $13,000 goal on GoFundMe. These donations — often just $5, $10, or $20 — speak volumes.
“Every small donation is a big statement,” Flash said. “It says: we’re watching. We believe in the power of local journalism. And we won’t let you use public office to punish people who tell the truth.”
Jeff Davis County has already spent over $14,000 in taxpayer funds hiring private law firms to block the release of records about these events — including a failed investigation into Flash that resulted in no charges, and a contempt warrant later called a “training mistake.” One official acknowledged that legal actions against Flash were motivated by his role as a “megaphone” for the community.
Big Bend Times continues to investigate that misuse of authority.
We are also defending our right to exist.
We know that in rural counties like ours, a strong press is often the only check on government power. That’s why this case matters. That’s why we keep publishing. And that’s why we’re proud to be part of a community that has stepped up to help.
If you believe in press freedom, transparency, and government accountability, you can support our fight here:
www.gofundme.com/f/stand-with-david-flash-against-corruption
We are grateful. We are energized. And we’re not backing down.
