San Andreas Judicial Branch Monthly Newsletter "EQUAL JUSTICE UNDER LAW" |
MESSAGE FROM THE CHIEF JUSTICE | CONCLUDED CASES | JUDICIAL BRANCH NOTICES |
PRECENDENT SPOTLIGHT | CLOSING MESSAGE
PRECENDENT SPOTLIGHT | CLOSING MESSAGE
Message from the Chief Justice
- Citizens of San Andreas,
Chief Justice Judith Mason
Happy Autumn! Though the days are getting colder and shorter, we at the Judicial Branch remain hard at work to ensure the wheels of justice remain ever turning. While recent hardship has been felt in the past few weeks, we want to assure the public that the Judicial Branch remains resolute in our pursuit of justice and we will continue to work diligently to reduce the amount of time that it takes a case to pass through the Superior Court.
Within the month of September, we have seen the submission of four new criminal cases while concluded cases have reached just about a dozen. With five cases currently active and thirteen remaining in the backlog, as always, there is still much to do, but we have a number of activations on the horizon and believe that a reasonable ratio will be within our grasp once again in the near future.
Furthermore, a number of internal systems are up for review and redevelopment to ensure our procedures and policies are both working as intended as well as supporting our ever changing needs as time goes on. For example, we have heard the feedback from members of the branch as well as members of the public regarding our recent docket trial procedures, which has sparked an internal dialogue leading to further tweaks and changes made to the system, the full details of which will be available in a press release in the coming week.
I am looking forward to a productive month of continued development and renewed invigoration to meet the needs of all citizens within our state.
Chief Justice
San Andreas Judicial Branch
(909) 257-9183 — [email protected]
Concluded Cases
- #23-CM-0087, State of San Andreas v. Evan Haze, Anderson Haze, Timmy Haze, and Joseph Morningstar
Evan Haze- VM03 - Reckless Operation of a Road or Marine Vehicle [CASE DISMISSED, CHARGES INTACT]
- GC06 - Possession of Cannabis [CASE DISMISSED, CHARGES INTACT]
- WM02 - Possession of a Class 1 Firearm [CASE DISMISSED, CHARGES INTACT]
- WM02 - Possession of a Class 1 Firearm [CASE DISMISSED, CHARGES INTACT]
- WM02 - Possession of a Class 1 Firearm [CASE DISMISSED, CHARGES INTACT]
- GM10 - Failure to Comply/Identify [GUILTY]
- VF01 - Evading an Officer [CHARGE DROPPED]
- WM02 - Possession of a Class 1 Firearm [CHARGE DROPPED]
- NM01 - Inciting a Riot [CHARGE DROPPED]
- VF01 – Evading an Officer [NOT GUILTY]
- WF02 – Accessory to Shooting from a Vehicle [NOT GUILTY]
- WM02 - Possession of a Class 1 Firearm [GUILTY]
Furthermore, if you wish to read some of our cases that are still active, click here!
Judicial Branch Notices
- Civilian ► Junior Prosecuting Attorney
- OJ Wood
- Al Triton
- Tony McFornell
- Hope Kant
Precedent Spotlight
Precedent Spotlight
- In a significant legal development this September, the San Andreas Judicial Branch witnessed the establishment of an important precedent in the case of #23-CM-0088, State of San Andreas v. Wolfgang Bathsheba. This landmark decision revolves around the charge of GM10 - Failure to Comply/Identify, which pertains to the failure to comply with lawful commands by law enforcement officers, including the obligation to identify oneself during an investigation.
In this case, Judged by Associate Justice Daniels, Daniels meticulously considered the presented evidence and arguments from both the prosecution and the defense. The defendant, Wolfgang Bathsheba, disputing the charge he got from failing to comply with lawful commands issued by law enforcement officers.
The prosecution's case was underpinned by compelling evidence, notably bodycam footage that unmistakably revealed Mr. Bathsheba's failure to adhere to lawful commands from the officers. Particularly, at a critical juncture in the footage, an officer can be heard commanding Mr. Bathsheba to halt, warning that failure to comply would result in being tased. Regrettably, Mr. Bathsheba persisted in evading the officers on foot, thereby failing to comply with their lawful commands.
Furthermore, the prosecution argued that Mr. Bathsheba had violated GM10 by refusing to remove his mask to enable law enforcement officers to identify him. While the defense introduced evidence filed under seal that substantiated Mr. Bathsheba's need for a mask, the court deemed that such evidence did not excuse his conduct. According to the penal code, individuals are obligated to comply with lawful commands issued by law enforcement officers, including temporarily removing their masks for identification purposes or allowing officers to do so. This obligation stands, irrespective of any other identifiers a person may possess.
As a result of these considerations, Associate Justice Daniels delivered a verdict in which Mr. Bathsheba was found guilty of the charge of GM10 - Failure to Comply/Identify.
This precedent underscores a vital legal principle: even with a mask prescription, or other exemptions (such as Halloween) individuals must comply with law enforcement officers' demands to identify themselves using suitable identification, such as a driver's license. Additionally, they are obligated to briefly remove their masks to confirm their identity or permit law enforcement officers to do so. This ruling ensures that public safety and the proper execution of law enforcement duties remain paramount, even in situations involving individuals with legitimate reasons for wearing masks.
Closing Message
- Citizens of San Andreas,
Associate Justice Daniels
As we bid farewell to September and welcome the crisp autumn air of October, I am honored to address you in this edition of the Judicial Branch Newsletter. The past month brought forth challenges and adversity, but it also revealed the strength and unity that define our resilient community. Together, we are forging a path towards rebuilding and recovery, emerging more determined and steadfast than ever before.
One notable achievement of the past month has been the diligent work of our dedicated now Attorney General, Hope Kant. Her unwavering commitment to repairing relationships between the Los Santos Police Department and Los Santos County Sheriff's Department is commendable. Through her efforts, we are taking important strides toward fostering cooperation, understanding, and trust among our law enforcement agencies and the Judicial Branch. We urge you, the citizens, to support these essential initiatives as we strive to create a safer and more harmonious community for all.
As we embrace the upcoming October festivities, with Halloween at the forefront of our minds, let us remember to celebrate responsibly. Halloween is a time for creativity, fun, and togetherness. However, it is equally crucial to prioritize safety. Ensure your costumes are safe and visible, exercise caution on the streets, and promote responsible behavior among your family and friends. Let Halloween be a joyful occasion, free from accidents and mishaps.
In conclusion, let us stand united in our commitment to rebuild and fortify our great state. We extend our gratitude to Attorney General Hope Kant for her remarkable efforts in bridging divides within our government agencies. As we navigate the challenges ahead, let us approach October with a spirit of responsibility and merriment. Together, we shall overcome adversity, proving that our state is resilient and unwavering in the face of challenges.
Thank you for your unwavering support, may the spirit of justice and unity guide us in the days and months ahead, and I will speak with you again next month.
Associate Justice
San Andreas Judicial Branch
(909) 402-9713 — [email protected]
Public Relations Division
San Andreas Judicial Branch
Rockford Hills City Hall, Carcer Way,
Metro Los Santos, SA