#probation violation attorney | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

lawofficesofharoldjcronk · 1 year ago

Text

Probation Violation in Georgia: Understanding the Consequences and Defense Strategies

Probation serves as an alternative to incarceration for individuals convicted of felonies or misdemeanors in the state of Georgia. It allows offenders to remain in the community while being supervised and required to adhere to certain rules and conditions set by the court. However, violating the terms of probation can have serious consequences, including additional fines and even jail time. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the different types of probation violations, the potential penalties, and strategies for defense.

Understanding Probation Violations in Georgia

1. Technical Violations

A technical violation occurs when an individual fails to comply with the general or specified conditions of their probation. Examples of technical violations include:

Failing to pay fines or fees

Neglecting to fulfill restitution obligations

Leaving the designated jurisdiction without permission

It is crucial to understand that even seemingly minor infractions can lead to probation violations. Therefore, it is essential to take your probation requirements seriously to avoid potential repercussions.

2. Special Condition Violations

In some cases, probation officers may impose special conditions that are specific to an individual's situation. These conditions go beyond the standard requirements and are established by the probation officer rather than the court. Failure to comply with these special conditions can result in probation violations and further penalties. It is important to carefully review and understand any special conditions imposed on your probation.

3. Substantive Violations

Substantive violations occur when an individual commits a new crime while on probation. These violations are separate acts unrelated to the original offense for which probation was granted. For example, being caught shoplifting while on probation for a previous theft offense would be considered a substantive violation. Such violations often lead to additional legal penalties and can have severe consequences.

Consequences of Probation Violation

When facing a Probation violation in Georgia, the court has broad discretion to impose a range of penalties. The consequences may include:

Warning or Request to Appear in Court

Upon discovery of a probation violation, a probation officer may issue a warning or request the offender's appearance in court for a probation violation hearing. During this hearing, the probation officer will present the violation and recommend an additional penalty. It is crucial to take any warnings or requests to appear in court seriously, as they indicate the seriousness of the violation.

Determination of Violation

According to Georgia Code § 42-9-51, a final hearing before the parole board may be required to determine whether the terms and conditions of probation were violated. This hearing aims to establish the nature and extent of the violation and the corresponding penalties. It is essential to prepare a strong defense and present evidence to support your case during this hearing.

Sentencing

If found guilty of violating probation, the court will proceed with sentencing immediately following the hearing. The court will consider recommendations from the probation officer or parole board when determining the appropriate sentence. The sentence may include various penalties, such as community service, drug or alcohol rehabilitation programs, large fines or restitution, or even jail time or imprisonment.

It is important to note that in severe cases, the parole board may choose to revoke probation entirely, requiring the individual to serve the remainder of their sentence in prison.

Developing a Defense Strategy

When facing a probation violation charge, it is crucial to develop a strong defense strategy to protect your rights and mitigate potential consequences. Here are some strategies to consider:

1. Gather Evidence

Collect any evidence that supports your defense, such as documents, receipts, or witness statements. This evidence can help challenge the allegations made against you and demonstrate your commitment to complying with probation conditions.

2. Consult with an Experienced Probation Violation Lawyer

Contacting a skilled probation violation lawyer is vital to ensure you have the best possible defense. An experienced attorney will review the circumstances of your case, assess the evidence, and provide expert guidance throughout the legal process. The Law Offices of Harold J. Cronk, PC, is a reputable law firm serving clients in Savannah, Georgia, and the surrounding counties. Our team of dedicated probation violation lawyers is ready to assist you.

3. Present Mitigating Factors

If you have valid reasons for the probation violation, such as a medical emergency or unforeseen circumstances, it is crucial to present these mitigating factors to the court. Providing a clear and compelling explanation can help demonstrate your commitment to probation and potentially lead to more lenient penalties.

4. Comply with Probation Requirements

To avoid future violations, it is essential to strictly adhere to all probation requirements. This includes attending scheduled appointments, completing any mandated programs or classes, paying fines and restitution promptly, and avoiding any involvement in criminal activities. By demonstrating your commitment to probation, you minimize the risk of further violations.

Conclusion

If you have been charged with violating probation in Georgia, it is essential to seek legal representation promptly. The Law Offices of Harold J. Cronk , offers experienced probation violation lawyers who can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and help you navigate the complexities of the Georgia probation system. Contact us today for a consultation to discuss your case and explore your defense options. Your future is at stake, and our dedicated team is here to provide the support and advocacy you need.

#dui accident lawyer #affordable dui lawyers #dui attorney cost #Probation Violation in Georgia

0 notes

offender42085 · 1 month ago

Text

Post 1374

Zachary Allen Gaskill, Iowa inmate 6590619, born 1990, incarceration intake June 2024 at age 34, scheduled for release October 2026

Involuntary Manslaughter

In June 2024, an Iowa Judge said it was "not a hard decision" to send the man responsible for Kirk Blunck's death to prison.

Zachary Gaskill, 34, was convicted earlier of involuntary manslaughter for the 2016 death of the Des Moines architect. In Court, he was sentenced to the maximum two years in prison after the Judge found he had showed a "lack of remorse" and that prior terms of probation for other offenses had not changed his behavior.

Blunck, a prominent developer involved in multiple projects to restore historic Des Moines buildings, died Jan. 24, 2016, after he was found injured at the bottom of a staircase in the Teachout building, which he owned. Gaskill, now 34, was charged with second-degree murder in 2022 after prosecutors accused him of assaulting Blunck and pushing him over a railing to fall at least two stories during an altercation.

At his trial, Gaskill's attorneys argued Blunck may have been intoxicated and instigated a fight, and that there was no evidence Gaskill had intended to cause Blunck's death. Prosecutors presented evidence that Gaskill had told inconsistent stories about what happened to investigators and several former girlfriends, including why he was on an upper floor of the building.

The jury found Gaskill not guilty of murder but did convict him of the lesser offence of Manslaughter. Gaskill also was previously sued by Blunck's family and ordered to pay $6.25 million for Blunck's death.

The defense attorney asked the court to suspend Gaskill's sentence and to consider running it concurrently to other sentences he faces, including for perjury during the Blunck family's civil case.

Gaskill addressed the court to describe change's he's made in his life, including stopping drinking after Blunck's death and working to improve his mental health. He spoke about his love for working with dogs at the Animal Rescue League and with clients as a personal trainer, and about improving his ties with his family. He told Gogerty he wanted Blunck's family to have closure.

"Every time probation is granted, he goes back to committing crimes, and he was on probation when he killed someone," the DA said. "... Every day this individual is not on the street is a day he can’t take from someone or hurt someone."

And while the defense argued he'd turned a corner, the Judge she saw the record differently, noting multiple criminal charges and parole violations since Blunck's death. The latest, a failed drug test, occurred just a week before his sentencing. And the Judge pointed to Gaskill's actions throughout the case, including celebrating in court when he was convicted of manslaughter rather than murder.

The Judge ordered Gaskill be sent to prison for up to two years, running consecutive to two other criminal sentences for a total of 12 years.

#inmate

29 notes · View notes

rjzimmerman · 3 months ago

Text

Phillips 66 Is Accused of Violating the Clean Water Act. (New York Times)

Excerpt from this New York Times story:

A federal grand jury on Wednesday indicted Phillips 66 on charges of violating the Clean Water Act by dumping nearly 800,000 gallons of contaminated wastewater into the Los Angeles County sewer system and failing to report the incident to authorities.

The Houston-based oil company was charged with releasing wastewater that contained excessive amounts of oil and grease from a refinery in Carson, Calif., in 2020 and 2021, the Justice Department said Thursday.

“Protecting our environment is key to protecting our community,” Martin Estrada, the U.S. attorney for the Central District of California, said in a statement. “Just like the rest of us, corporations have a duty to follow the law, so when companies contaminate, they must be held accountable.”

The Justice Department charged Phillips 66 with two counts of negligently violating the Clean Water Act and four counts of knowingly violating the act. The company faces up to five years of probation on each count and a maximum of $2.4 million in fines.

The Justice Department accused Phillips 66 of discharging contaminated wastewater on two occasions.

For over two and half hours on Nov. 24, 2020, the indictment said, the Carson oil refinery released 310,000 gallons of wastewater containing about 64,000 pounds of oil and grease. The oil-and-grease concentration of the water was about 300 times the amount allowed under the company’s permit.

On Feb. 8, 2021, the facility discharged 480,000 gallons of wastewater containing about 33,700 pounds of oil and grease over five and a half hours, the indictment said.

Mr. Estrada said on a call with reporters that investigators believed that the Los Angeles County wastewater treatment plant was able to capture all of the contaminated water before it was released, like most treated water, into the Pacific Ocean.

#Phillips 66 #water pollution #Clean Water Act #California #wastewater

26 notes · View notes

morbidology · 10 months ago

Text

Jonathan Hoffman, a 17-year-old senior at Farmington Central High School, resided with his grandparents, Sandra Layne and Fred Layne, in West Bloomfield Township, Michigan. This arrangement came about as his parents, Michael and Jennifer Hoffman, navigated a divorce in Arizona, where they had relocated approximately a year prior.

Opting to remain in Michigan for his final year of high school, Jonathan had recently received acceptance to Eastern Michigan University. Upon the completion of the divorce proceedings, Jennifer intended to return to Michigan to reunite with her son.

Jonathan had had several minor run ins with law enforcement. On the 17th of March, 2011, 17-year-old Jonathan was pulled over in Farmington Hills and ticketed for possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia in the form of a grinder. He received a 93 day suspended sentence and was placed on 12 months’ probation.

Then on the 21st of March, West Bloomfield Township police responded to complaints outside the home. When they arrived, they found Sandra and Jonathan outside the home arguing. Jonathon told police that he was angry over a text message that his father had sent him. When Jonathan calmed down, police left and no arrests were made and no citations were issued.

At around 5:30PM the 18th of May, 2011, a 911 call was placed to West Bloomfield Township police.

The phone call was placed by Jonathan. He said that his grandmother had shot him in the chest and he was going to die. Around three minutes into the phone call, Jonathan is heard pleading “no grandma” before exclaiming to the dispatcher that he had been shot again. At one point in the phone call, a woman can he heard shouting: “Let go, let go. You’ve got to let go!” Towards the end of the phone call, the same woman can be heard calmly saying: “I will get you a drink of water.”

As officers pulled up to the upscale condo, they heard several more shots. They found Sandra standing behind a screened door. She was holding a .40-caliber handgun but placed it on the floor when ordered to do so by police. She came out of the door, raised her hands and screamed: “I murdered my grandson!”

Upstairs, the officers discovered the lifeless body of 17-year-old Jonathon Hoffman. He had been shot 5 times with 9mm glock. He was shot in the upper right armpit area, in the upper right chest, in the left arm near the shoulder, in the left lower chest and on the left side of the abdomen. Four of the shots had been close range. He was rushed to Botsford Hospital where he was declared dead.

According to Sandra’s attorneys, there were problems in the home and Sandra was afraid of her grandson. One of the attorneys, Mitchell Ribitwer, told reporters outside that drugs and drug paraphernalia was discovered inside the home that belonged to Jonathon.

He also said that in March, police had responded to a domestic disturbance call at the home. According to defence Ribitwer: “I spoke to the officer who responded, and he indicated this young man was totally out of control in the street. He was derogatory to his grandmother. He was yelling and shouting and almost got into it with police.”

Sandra said to detectives that Jonathan had been taking the synthetic drug, K2, and that it changed his character. She said he had become increasingly violent after taking the drug and purchased a gun because she feared that he would kill her. After Jonathan had been ticketed for marijuana possession and drug paraphernalia, the court had ordered him to undergo alcohol and drug treatment which was monitored by random testing.

According to Sandra’s lawyers, Jonathan had violated his probation on the day of his murder when he tested positive for the K2 drug. They claimed that this led to an argument during which Sandra had feared for her own life. However, Jonathan's autopsy showed that the drug was not present in his urine.

During the trial, prosecutors said Sandra had followed her grandson to the bedroom loft after shooting him once. But before this, she had gone into the basement, walking through Jonathan's blood, to retrieve more ammunition, showing intent.

Ultimately, Sandra Layne was convicted of second-degree murder and sentenced to 20 to 40 years in prison, as well as an additional two years for using a firearm in the commission of a felony.

#Jonathan Hoffman #True Crime

56 notes · View notes

rapeculturerealities · 10 months ago

Text

Woman Who Was Charged With Murder After Abortion Sues Texas Prosecutor - The New York Times

A woman in Texas who was falsely charged with murder over a self-induced abortion in 2022 has filed a lawsuit against the local prosecutor’s office and its leaders, seeking more than $1 million in damages.

Lizelle Gonzalez was arrested in April 2022 in Starr County, near the southeastern border with Mexico, and charged with murder after using the drug misoprostol to self-induce an abortion, 19 weeks into her pregnancy. She spent two nights in jail before the charge was dropped.

Self-induced abortions can refer to those performed outside of professional medical care, including the use of abortion pills. Under Texas law at the time, abortions after six weeks were illegal, but pregnant women are exempt from criminal prosecution. (Health care professionals who provide abortion procedures and medication, and others who help someone get an abortion, can still be liable.)

Ms. Gonzalez, who was known as Lizelle Herrera and 26 at the time of her arrest, filed a complaint on Thursday against Starr County, along with its district attorney, Gocha Ramirez, and assistant district attorney, Alexandria Lynn Barrera. She argues that the arrest and charge resulted in her suffering reputational harm and distress, and seeks to “vindicate her rights but also to hold accountable the government officials who violated them,” according to her lawsuit.

Ms. Gonzalez and her lawyers were not immediately available for comment on Saturday.

Mr. Ramirez and Ms. Barrera also did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the lawsuit. A month ago, the state bar of Texas found that Mr. Ramirez had unlawfully prosecuted Ms. Gonzalez without probable cause and fined him $1,250. His law license will also be held in probated suspension for a year, which means he must comply with specific requirements but can practice law during that time. That period starts April 1.

According to the complaint, Ms. Gonzalez took the abortion medication in January 2022 and went to the hospital for an examination. Doctors found a positive heartbeat for the baby and no contractions, so she was discharged the next day. But later that day, she returned to the hospital with complaints of vaginal bleeding, and doctors performed a C-section to deliver a stillborn child.

The Food and Drug Administration has approved the use of misoprostol and mifepristone, another commonly used abortion pill, through 10 weeks of pregnancy, under the supervision of a health care provider. But the World Health Organization endorses self-induced abortions in pregnancies of up to 12 weeks without medical supervision.

Ms. Gonzalez says in the lawsuit that the hospital employees reported her self-induced abortion to the district attorney’s office, in violation of federal privacy laws, though her lawsuit does not name them or the hospital as defendants.

The lawsuit says that neither the Starr County Sheriff’s Office nor the Rio Grande City Police Department performed an investigation with sufficient facts or circumstances surrounding the murder charge against her, and only relied on reports from the hospital. Ms. Gonzalez also accuses them of misleading the grand jury with false information to secure an indictment against her.

“The fallout from defendants’ illegal and unconstitutional actions has forever changed” Ms. Gonzalez’s life, the complaint says. She “was subjected to the humiliation of a highly publicized indictment and arrest, which has permanently affected her standing in the community.”

When the charge against Ms. Gonzalez was dropped, Mr. Ramirez said that it was “clear” that she “cannot and should not be prosecuted for the allegation against her,” and acknowledged that “the events leading up to this indictment have taken a toll” on Ms. Gonzalez and her family. At the time, the anti-abortion group Texas Right to Life supported Mr. Ramirez’s decision to drop the charges, saying Texas’ law “clearly prohibit criminal charges for pregnant women.”

Ms. Gonzalez’s indictment occurred several months before the overturning of Roe v. Wade, and before Texas’ near-total ban on abortions went into effect. Even with the stricter ban, those who get an abortion cannot be criminally prosecuted.

Melissa Murray, a law professor at New York University, said Ms. Gonzalez’s lawsuit could serve to raise consciousness in Texas and beyond, to “understand that we are moving very quickly into a kind of dystopian, post-Dobbs landscape.”

“I think she could be very successful here,” Ms. Murray said of Ms. Gonzalez. “And if she isn’t, even if it doesn’t make it to trial, she could make him pay to settle this,” referring to Mr. Ramirez.

The lawsuit could act as a deterrent to other officials around the state, Ms. Murray said. But it could also “have the effect of spurring the anti-abortion movement to lobby the Legislature to actually make pregnant people subject to criminal or civil liability.”

Roni Caryn Rabin, Giulia Heyward and Sophie Kasakove contributed reporting.

#abortion #texas #reproductive rights #Health care

69 notes · View notes

cissyenthusiast010155 · 1 year ago

Text

My Guardian Angel ~Broken!Rita Calhoun xFem Younger!Investigator!Reader (Liz Donnelly x Alex Cabot) feat. Rafael Barba & Olivia Benson

Summary— AU where Rita has an abusive husband, and one night, after he storms out, Rita calls Reader. Reader brings Rita to the person who helped her with her own haunted past, Elizabeth Donnelly. Alex, Barba, and Liv makes appearances. What does the night have in store for Rita and Reader…?

Mommy… Master List

Requests & Prompt-List

Warnings: angst, a little fluff, dead dove: do not eat, implied abuse, implied sexual assault, implied abusive husband, comforting, crying, alcohol consumption, anxiety attacks, a little self destructive behavior, mentions to prostitution, SVU things, Elizabeth Donnelly, Alex Cabot, Rafael Barba, Olivia Benson, Liz and Alex are a bit of a power couple, gray ending, etc.

Enjoy (;

You didn’t know Rita Calhoun well. At least not originally. From the moment you did meet, you both couldn’t deny the connection between the two of you. You had always lived in coinciding worlds, she was a New York defense attorney, and you were an investigator for 1PP, occasionally lended out to SVU.

Originally, she was the lawyer whom you had hired for your idiot of a brother when he had been caught and charged with soliciting a prostitute. You had met with the high class woman on a couple of occasions, to discuss your brothers bail, probation, trial, payment, and anything else pertaining to his case.

You saw yourself intrigued by her elegant manner, high end fashion, and confidence. Soon you saw yourself get hooked to the tiny smiles and chuckles you managed to pull from her when in private. You found yourself fighting to make the woman laugh as much as you could, her laugh always seemed to make your day. And during the trial, your eyes were on her the entire time. You lived off those days outfits that Rita would strut into court in.

So when you checked your phone late Friday night, the last thing you expected to see what a very many handfuls of missed calls from Rita Calhoun. You saw that she had left a voicemail in the last call, so you pressed play.

“Heyyyy Y/N… S-sorry to be bothering you so I know it’s^^late… I… I just… I don’t know what to do, call me back k bye”

It was Rita alright, but something was very wrong. She had been stammering and hiccuping throughout the entire voicemail, and had broken into sobs by the end. She sounded like she’d been crying and drinking for far too long… Her sounds triggered memories of your own life, memories that you had gone to great lengths to bury.

You immediately called the woman back. The dial rang for a couple tones, then it shut off. You hit call again. The second time, she picked up. You heard a sniffle and then a choke sob.

“H-hey…” she practically whispered.

“Rita, Hi, is everything alright?”

“I…” She stammered, before the call went silent.

“Rita?” You asked, your concern growing.

“N-no” She whispered, then letting out another choked sob.

You took a deep breath and your instincts kicked in once more. You got Rita to give you her address and told her that you would be over as soon as possible. That night you broke the made the most traffic violations in your entire life.

You entered the house, the front door having been unlocked which was mildly concerning to you. You walked through the lavish, lofty apartment, until you found Rita curled up facing away from you in the living room on the floor with a full bottle of wine in her hand. Your heart sank and a lump came into your throat. You hated how normal and used to this sight you were. Because not too long ago, this had been you…

You dropped to the floor, immediately going to comfort the woman. You carefully removed the alcohol, setting it aside. Rita let out a choke sob, immediately curling up into your lap. As she turned to face you, you saw the massive black eye that she had. Your eyes scanned her entire body, finding more red, raw skin marks along her arms and some blue bruising on her neck. Your heart nearly broke as Rita sobbed into your lap.

“I—im s-sorry… I didn’t-didn’t know who t-to call…! It’s it’s stupid, nothing really—” Rita choked out, muffled as she cried into your chest.

You knew this behavior. You knew it all too well.

“Hey hey, it’s okay. I’m here Rita… It’s all going to be okay. Can I touch you, honey…? Would that be alright…?” You very gently asked the woman, coming a little closer to her, trying to show that you were no threat.

Rita nodded as her cries were muffled by her face being in the crook of your neck. She clung onto you like her life depended on it.

“Ok, good… you are doing so good for me, Rita. Take some deep breaths for me? Can you try to do that?” You comforted the woman, bringing your hands around to hold the woman in your lap.

You could hear Rita trying to take some deep breaths as she nodded, although her hiccups made it more difficult.

“Good, very good, Rita.” You praised, then bringing your hands to cup the woman’s cheeks and direct her scattered gaze to you.

“Now Rita this is important… I need you to come back to me and think, okay?”

A slow nod.

“Is he going to come back anytime soon…?” You softly asked.

Rita’s eyes widened and she began to panic at your question. Your hold on the woman only tightened and you insisted on her answer.

“I know you don’t want to think about it, but I need to know if you’re safe staying here Rita.” You explained firmly yet lovingly.

Rita took some more deep breaths before stammering,

“I… he he’s gone out… drinking…” she gulped, “Be back late…”

Her eyes were red and glossy, and they only panicked more at the idea of her husband returning. You rubbed her back and caressed her check in comfort.

“Ok. We need to get you to a hospital, Rita…” you gently said, knowing the possible outlast that your words might cause.

Rita practically jumped out of your lap and was quick to stand up and start pacing in the living room. Her fingers were red and raw and fidgeting. Her gaze scattered everywhere. You slowly stood up and tried to corner the woman into your embrace.

“No no no hospitals… hospitals means cops and that means court and no no—” Rita rambled, her thoughts spiraling more and more.

You grabbed the woman’s hands, clasping them in your own to ground the woman. Her sobbing gaze finally met yours once more.

“Okay. That’s okay. Rita, listen to me, is there anywhere you can go to stay for the time being…?” You softly asked.

Rita’s lip began to tremble and her knees buckled, her body falling into yours. Luckily, you managed to gently catch and carry the weight of the woman while she regained partial strength.

“N-not RAF—Rafael… he can’t know, no no no one…” Rita choked out in gasps.

When she wasn’t able to come up with any other options, your mind went to the person who had helped you.

“Okay okay, that’s okay, Rita. How about Elizabeth? You know Judge Donnelly? She’s a close friend and I know she can help…” you spoke with understanding and reassurance.

Rita looked up to you from collapsing in your arms and nodded slowly. But her eyes told you that she had sunken too far into her thoughts, that you would have to start making the decisions in her best interest until she came back to you.

You gently placed Rita back on the couch, quickly going to the kitchen to grab her a water, while you then ran around the place, trying to pack her a weekend back. After about 15 minutes, you had the bag in hand and you were leading the woman out of the house and into a cab. The entire cab ride, Rita was snuffling and silently sobbing in your shoulder.

Once you reached Liz’s brownstone, you violently knocked on the door, Rita protected being you and holding your hand. The door flew open but it wasn’t Liz, it was a blonde. Your eyes went wide and you gulped, suddenly regretting not having double checked with Liz beforehand.

“You’re Y/N, right…? I’m Alex.” The tall blonde spoke slowly yet confidently.

“Yes, um is Liz home?” You said, quickly getting to the point while trying to hide Rita behind you to the best of your ability.

But Liz had told you about Alex, she was sharp, didn’t miss a thing.

“Yea, she’s in the kitchen… Is that Calhoun…?” Alex hummed, leaning against the doorway.

You took a deep breath and brought Rita to stand next to you. Alex��s jaw dropped and she took a step back in shock.

“I just… we needed a safe place to go for the night and Liz always said her door was always open and I’m sorry if we intruded, I just can’t handle this, I mean I know Liz can handle it, and so I thought—” you rambled.

Before you could say another word, the blonde was pulling you and Rita into the brownstone, closing the door behind her and marching straight up to Liz in the kitchen.

“Is that our take-out, bunny…?” Liz hummed, while sipping some wine before her gaze met yours and then Rita’s disheveled state.

“Oh my god.” Liz immediately put her glass doing and rushed over to Rita, her hands wandering all over the woman, her gaze scouring the woman’s injuries, “Rita, Darling, what happened…??”

Rita’s lip trembled before more violent sobs came out. No coherent words were possible for the woman at this point, all she could do was embrace Liz and sob into her chest. Liz happily consoled the poor woman before her gaze meet yours along with the go bag.

“I’m sorry…” you mouthed, referring to breaking up her and Alex’s obvious night together.

“Hush now, you did the right thing, take Rita’s things to the first bedroom on the second floor.” Liz told you, waving off your unneeded apology.

You immediately nodded and went to go up the stairs. Then Luz turned to Alex.

“Go run a bath, warm not too hot.” Liz spoke firmly.

Alex was off to the master bathroom after a quick nod. When you both returned, you found Rita clung around Liz like a Koala, clinging on for dear life and continuing to sob in her chest. The sight brought flashbacks of the night you had stumbled up on Liz’s doorstep, in an eerily same condition as Rita…

Liz soothed Rita while guiding her to the master bathroom. The older blonde sent you a comforting gaze with a nod, telling you that she had it. You placed a hand on your heart and took a shattered breath, nodding slowly.

It was then that you noticed Alex coming up beside you. You turned your head to her slightly.

“I… I just didn’t know where else to go… I’m sorry if I ruined your night…” you breathed out.

Alex brought a hand to your shoulder and reassuringly squeezed your skin lightly. Her eyes twinkled with sympathy and care.

“Hey, it’s okay. You made the right call. And hey, I’m glad to finally meet you.” Alex sighed, “Can I get you anything…?”

You nodded and then sighed yourself.

“Tea maybe…? Or fuck some scotch now that I think about it…”

A deep chuckle reverberated throughout Alex’s chest as she nodded in agreement, going to the kitchen and pulling a bottle out of the liquor cabinet. She poured two glasses and handed you one of them.

“Thanks” you muttered.

Alex hummed an of course in response, before going to sit down in the classy living room. You sat across from her, sipping your scotch lightly. The blonde looked you dead in the eye, as she sighed.

“Liz told me a bit about you and that night.”

You gulped and struggled to maintain the intense eye contact. You knew that Liz and Alex were close, really close, however it still was hard to reconcile another person knowing something so vulnerable about you. But if Liz trusted Alex with it, so did you.

“Yea… I was and am still so grateful to Lizzie for all that she did for me…” you confessed.

“Lizzie…?” Alex chuckled dryly with a cock of an eyebrow.

“Yea…” you breathily chuckled, “Her and my dad worked together…”

Alex smiled lightly in understanding, nodding along, waving her hand in the air and prompting you to continue, knowing from what Liz had said that that wasn’t the whole story.

“Yeah they were colleagues, and so I saw Lizzie at events and she’d been at my childhood home a couple times… I’d always been pretty independent, both my parents working all the time, and me being the oldest led to me getting used to being on my own. And then my parents divorced, and I got even more alone…” you sighed.

Another wave of sympathy washed over Alex’s face, as she sipped her scotch and listened intently.

“I’m sorry. I definitely know the pains of divorced parents…” Alex sighed.

You smiled lightly and nodded, before continuing you tawdry tale,

“Anyways, Lizzie was one of the only people who reached out to me, to y’know check on me and stuff. She’s always been in my corner, and she’s practically filled the role of a mother ever since the divorce…” you spoke out softly.

You could tell that Alex knew most of this, and that she was waiting for the part about how this all connected to Rita, so you cut to the chase.

“Anyways, about two years ago, I meet and started to see this guy… Looking back, he was a lot like my father, and I should have recognized the warning signs earlier… But I didn’t. And I let it go on for an entire year… Until…” you sucked in a breath, “I wound up on Lizzie’s doorstep, heart broken and bruised…”

You saw Alex’s audible gulp at your last sentence. You saw how her hand tightly clutched her glass, her knuckles almost white. With a deep breath, she nodded and prompted you to continue with her hand once more.

“Anywho, Lizzie helped me get my shit together and throw him out of my place and my life. I’d taken his abuse for a whole year, and I’m still recovering to this day from the number he did on me…” You concluded your story.

Alex then stood up and came to sit next to you on the couch you inhabited. Her hand came to squeeze your shoulder reassuringly.

“I’m so sorry that you had to go through all of that…” Alex sighed, “I hear you, recovery takes time.”

You took a breathy, deep breath with a shaky nod, all the memories of your past coming up as you talked about it all. But her touch was soothing. It was then that Liz emerged from the hallway and came into the living room with a sigh. The older woman sat down next to you, a hand running up and down your thigh in reassurance.

“She’s okay, Rita is going to be fine.” Liz hummed, before stealing your glass of scotch and sipping away at it.

You didn’t mind the cheeky gesture, lord knows she needed the relaxation, merely humming and nodding in response.

“She’s in the bath, and she’s asking for you…” Liz spoke once more.

You sucked in a breath and nodded, starting to stand up. As you went to leave and find Rita in the master bath, you turned back towards Liz and Alex, who were now snuggling lovingly on the couch.

“Thank you Lizzie… Really, thank you.” You breathed out shakily.

Liz met your gaze, her eyes filled with love and care, and the older woman nodded.

“Anytime, sweetheart.”

You nodded lightly with a small smile, before turning around and making your way to find Rita. By the time you reached the bath, you found Rita passed out in the warm water, snoring lightly and peacefully. You noted how graceful and content Rita looked asleep. Coming up to the tub, you sat down next to the rim, and proceeded to tuck a stray hair behind Rita’s ear.

She must be exhausted… you thought. And your suspicions were confirmed as the woman continued to sleep until the water in the tub threatened to go cold. It was then that you gently nudged the brunette out from her slumber. She snorted lightly as her eyes fluttered open. Her gaze still looked shattered and sad, and her lip was still lightly trembling.

“Fuck I’m mm sorry, I must have fallen asleep—” Rita rambled in a quiet mumble.

“Hush, none of that. It’s completely alright…” you comforted the woman, raising your hand for her to stop.

Rita shut her mouth and blushed a little, then shivering in the now cold bath water.

“Thanks…” she whispered.

“Of course. Now let’s get you out and into something warm…” you hummed, grabbing a fluffy towel from the bathroom cabinet and then reaching your hand out towards Rita.

Rita happily took your hand, then climbing out of the tub, then you proceeded to wrap the woman up in the warm towel.

“M-my clothes…” Rita murmured, looking to the ground as fear lurched in the pit of her stomache at the idea of having to wear her bloodied clothing.

You gently rubbed her towel wrapped shoulders with a light smile.

“I grabbed some things before we left your place, the bag is on the toilet. It will have to do for now, until we figure out what to do…” you cooed caringly.

Rita blushed lightly and muttered a thank you. You told her it’s was the least that you could do, before giving her a kiss on the forehead and leaving her in the bathroom to go through the bag and change.

As you exited the room and walked back into the living room, you found Liz and Alex right where you had left them, with Alex curled up in Liz’s arms. Liz’s head popped up from her gaze on Alex back to you as you came into the living room and took a seat on an opposing couch, with a pondering look on your face.

“I know that look…” Liz hummed cheekily, taking another sip of your scotch, “What’s on your mind, kiddo?”

You bit your lip, pulling out your phone, before looking over to Liz.

“I was thinking about maybe calling Barba…” you mused aloud, your mind questioning on what to do next.

At this, Alex perked up to. Liz’s eyes widened and her expression was a knowing one, one that quickly understood your line of thought.

“I see… What did Rita say?” Liz hummed, placing the scotch back on the table and much to Alex’s delight starting to massage the young blonde’s shoulders.

You looked away from Liz at her words, and back to your phone.

“When I asked where she could go, she said not Rafael… I know that their friends, she’s mentioned him before… But he could help…” you sighed, inwardly conflicted.

Liz sighed at your admission. And she seemed to be in deep thought for a moment before she spoke,

“When you came to me, did I call anyone…?” The older woman asked you.

You bit your lip and sighed.

“No…”

“Exactly. Even though I wanted to… Probably would have called Liv, but I didn’t. Because you didn’t want me to.” Liz spoke,

You once again looked to the ground instead of meeting the older woman’s gaze.

“I’m not saying that Barba is a bad idea…” she slowly explained, “I think that it would be best if we ask Rita first.”

“Ask me what?” Rita’s timid voice echoed through the expansive living room and kitchen.

All three of your heads swiveled with extreme speed to the end of the hallway where the brunette stood. She padded her way through part of the kitchen and then into the living room. You immediately scooted over and lightly waved her over to come and sit. Rita did exactly that before repeating her question, more vocal this time.

“What did you want to ask me first?” The woman spoke.

Liz and Alex immediately eyed you, quirking their eyebrows and very clearly telling you that since this was your idea, you were the one who was going to say something. You gulped, turning your body more towards the group. Your gaze met Rita’s and you reached your hands out to grasp her left available hand and reassuringly squeeze it.

“I… We were talking about maybe calling Liv… or Barba…” you shakily breathed out, squeezing her hand lovingly while speaking to comfort the woman.

The same panic from earlier this night came rushing back to the woman’s gaze. But she was a little more collected now, and she seemed to handle the surge of emotions better this time around.

“I…” Rita stammered, “I don’t know…”

She slumped forward a bit and closed her eyes, a singular tear escaping her eyes. You immediately extended your arm and brought the brunette into your soft embrace.

“That’s okay. We can deal with all that later… How are you feeling…?” You gently spoke.

“Exhausted…” Rita choked out, “and stupid… like it’s all my fault…!”

The broken defense lawyer turned completely towards you, clinging to your frame as she began to cry into your shoulder. You gently caressed her back and shoulders reassuringly.

“That’s it, it’s going to be ok, Rita… It’s all going to be okay…” you soothed the woman.

“B-but how do you know that…?”

You sighed.

“Because… I’ve been through something eerily similar…”

At this, Rita pulled back and looked at you with eyes full of empathy.

“I’m so sorry…” she uttered, fully processing the words you had just spoken.

You smiled lightly and cupped Rita’s face.

“It’s okay… I’m past that now. Now I’m here for you… Now how about bed…?” You hummed caringly.

Rita nodded and hummed a soft thank you, before you guided the woman up and to one of Liz’s many guest bedrooms. You stayed with her until she was asleep, which didn’t take too long, but you stayed nonetheless, before then turning in for the night yourself in another guest room, which Liz had so kindly offered you.

Rita spent the rest of the weekend at Liz’s. Liz and Alex were more than happy to host, and they graciously let you stay as well to keep an eye on the broken brunette.

Then come Monday morning, you were walking into the SVU squad room with Rita anxiously by your side. You grabbed her shaky hand and squeezed it reassuringly, as your other hand rapped on Captain Liv Benson’s office door. Neither of you expected Barba to swing the door open, and he sure as hell didn’t expect to see Rita.

Liv ushered you in, and Rafael could immediately sense something was wrong. Rafael simply closed the door behind you, not bothering to leave.

“Rita, Y/N, how can I help you?” Liv spoke.

Rita shuffled her feet and looked to the ground. You squeezed her hand again and whispered that it was going to be okay.

“Wait what is going on…?” Rafael cut in.

Liv sent Barba a warning glance for him to be quiet to let you or Rita speak. You gently looked towards the brunette, whose lip was now trembling.

“I… I was raped…” Rita shakily breathed out, as a small tear rolled down her left cheek.

~~~

Part 2 with a happy ending…? Or maybe something more angsty…? 😏

Alex Cabot Masterlist

Olivia Benson Masterlist

Rita Calhoun Masterlist ~Coming Soon (;

Elizabeth Donnelly Masterlist ~Coming Soon (;

Rafael Barba Masterlist ~Coming Soon (;

78 notes · View notes

remembertheplunge · 23 days ago

Text

Bird, Blood, 2nd chance

Sacred Selfish p 151

“Author George Sand says that “writing a journal implies that one has ceased to think of the future and decided to live wholly in the present. It’s an annoucement to fate that you expect nothing more.”

The following is an entry from my journal dated 10/26/2015 Monday 2:25pm Preservation Coffee House

Bird

Blood

2nd Chance

“You did a good job on that case” Del B. A fellow defense attorney, I just ran into him here at Preservation. He was talking about Matt W., one of my clients. His case was on earlier today in Dept 1. It was a probation violation hearing in which, if found true, Matt could receive 5 years in prison. The DA and I made our arguments and the court took a break to decide on prison or local time..

I went outside of the court house and sat on a bench. A man was seated on the bench across from me. He had a shoe box which contained a bird with an injured leg.

Here’s how I tell the story of what happened next in the journal:

“A man asked me to hold down a pigeon while he taped its injured leg. Just prior to that, he told me that he encountered a man he knew at a car wash. The man staggered toward him, unable to speak. His jaw was gashed open and blood was flowing. No one would help him. The man got a towel for the injured man.. The Ambulance guys, upon opening the injured man’s shirt said “oh my God” There were multiple small stab wounds on the chest. The injured man later died."

So, I was awaiting the Matt W. “Verdict”. The man was dealing from the “blood on your hands” incident at the car wash. I held down the bird while the man taped it's leg. In so doing, the bird healed us."

When I returned to Dept 1 after the break, the court ruled that the 5 years prison would be suspended. Matt W. Would do 180 days. Since he had been in jail for sometime, his release date would be November 2nd, a few days from then. Matt W. shook my hand. He got a 2nd chance.

End of entry

Note 1/18/2025

I still think about the man, the injured bird and Matt W at times when I pass those two cement benches we sat on that day by the court house in Modesto, California.

#journaling #writing #criminal defense #htending to an injured bird healed us #George Sand #Sacred Selfish #a book #10/26/2015 #Modesto california coiurt house

13 notes · View notes

horsesarecreatures · 17 days ago

Text

"Over the years, Rotz has committed a long list of offenses against innocent horses. A small selection of his evil deeds include:

Transporting a group of horses to slaughter in conditions that resulted in thirty of the horses being burned alive.

Overloading a trailer of horses purchased at auction, resulting in the death of ten horses after the vehicle crashed.

Shipping blind and injured horses to slaughter.

Locking four distressed, sick, emaciated pigs in a barn for days without any access to food or water, while withholding pain medicine. Rotz pled guilty to aggravated animal cruelty and incurred a $100 fine and 12-months of probation with the stipulation that he refrain from neglecting or abusing any animal in his care."

This is who Colby's Crew Rescue does most of their business with. Think about that before donating to them. There is a real chance of legal action being taken against Rotz that would severely restrict his business, but they have not their encouraged their followers to write letters to the NY governor or attorney general to investigate and prosecute him. This is part of the reason why I suspect their rescue is more about paying six figure salaries than preventing horse slaughter.

#colbys crew rescue #bruce rotz

8 notes · View notes

beardedmrbean · 27 days ago

Text

LOS ANGELES (KTLA) – The Santa Monica Police Department has made over 40 arrests from the start of the Palisades Fire on Jan. 7 through Jan. 13.

The department said all of those arrested were in the city’s evacuation zones, and most of them violated the curfew law enforcement put in place, which lasts from sunset to sunrise.

Ten suspects were arrested for burglary, and one of them was found to have the Watch Duty app on his phone. That app shows maps of active fires and evacuation zones, including the zones in Santa Monica. Six people were in possession of burglary tools like bolt cutters, pry tools, hand saws, key fob programmers and key fobs. Two people were arrested for being in possession of concealed handguns.

None of those arrested were from Santa Monica.

The rest of those were arrested for other violations like drug possession, driving violations, outstanding warrants, parole and probation violations. None of those arrested were from Santa Monica, police say.

Officials noted that this was “a significant increase in the normal number of arrests in the neighborhoods in the evacuation zones north of Montana and Wilmont.

Many of the incidents involved arrests of more than one person.

“Our dedicated team of officers did a phenomenal job saturating the evacuation areas and tamping down criminal activity,” the department said in a media release.

The arrests come as the Los Angeles District Attorney Nathan Hochman announced charges against several suspects tied to arson and looting in Pacific Palisades since the fire broke out.

Arrests have also been made following the eruption of the Eaton Fire in the Pasadena and Altadena area as well.

#nunyas news #in florida people just shoot them #sometimes at least #the threat is always there at a minimum

10 notes · View notes

auroraattorney · 2 years ago

Text

Trustworthy Probation Violation Attorney For Your Legal Needs

Probation violation is a legal term used to describe the failure of an individual to comply with any of the conditions imposed upon them during their probationary period. This can include failing to meet court-ordered requirements such as attending counseling sessions, paying restitution or fines, and refraining from further criminal activity.

If you are facing a Probation Violation case, you need to hire the Law Office of Ned C Khan. We are the best Probation Violation Aurora Attorney out there. We have been handling cases for years and have a proven track record of winning our clients' cases.

Probation violation cases are complicated, and it's important to have a lawyer who understands the ins and outs of the system. If you've been arrested for violating your probation, you must seek legal representation as soon as possible so that you can get back on track with your life and avoid any further consequences. Probation Violation Naperville Lawyer can help you with your case and keep you out of jail.

At the Law Office of Ned C. Khan, we know that a conviction can have long-term consequences on your life and career. We will work hard to get the charges against you dismissed or reduced so that you can move on with your life without worrying about legal issues for years to come. Our experienced Probation Violation Aurora Lawyer will help you navigate through the legal system and ensure that your rights are protected at every step of the process. We'll also file motions on your behalf and make sure that your case gets heard by an impartial judge who won't be biased toward either party.

When you hire us, we will make sure that your rights are protected and that you receive the best possible outcome from your case. We offer free consultations, so contact us today at 630-820-3203 and visit our website: - https://attorneyinaurora.com/ for more information about how our firm can help with your criminal defense needs!

#probation violation attorney #Probation Violation Naperville Attorney #Probation Violation Aurora Lawyer #Legal Services #legal #attorney #lawyer #criminal #Violation #probation violation #aurora

0 notes

dreaminginthedeepsouth · 1 month ago

Text

“And now the news”:

The wildfires engulfing Los Angeles County have scorched more than 36,000 acres, or 56.25 square miles — a total area larger than some of the United States’ most densely populated cities. They have spread to roughly 36,365 acres combined.

The Palisades Fire has burned over 20,000 acres and destroyed more than 10,000 structures, and as of 9 a.m. was 8% contained, which is progress from last night when it was 6% contained at 10 p.m., thanks to favorable wind conditions overnight.

The Eaton Fire in Pasadena-Altadena has now destroyed 13,956 acres with 3% containment. The fire is believed to have damaged or destroyed 4,000 to 5,000 structures. The fire did make a push toward Mount Wilson Observatory on Thursday, but the building did not suffer any damageand the relay antennas atop the mountain for communication across Southern California are unharmed.

The Palisades and Eaton fires have become the No. 1 and No. 2 most destructive fires in Southern California history.

The red flag warning will continue until Friday at 6 p.m. PST, but firefighters will be preparing for the next red flag event expected to begin on Monday.

Los Angeles Sheriff Robert Luna said the devastation caused by the wildfires in Los Angeles has been catastrophic and that “parts of the city look like an atomic bomb was dropped.” (He’s right)

So far, at least five blazes have burned an area:

About the same size as Miami…

Two and a half times larger than Manhattan.

Larger than San Francisco and Boston, both of which cover more than 46 square miles…

And around 3.5% the size of Rhode Island, the smallest state.

And it really is worse than it looks. Whole neighborhoods have been devastated, leaving nothing but rubble. At least 10,000 properties have been destroyed, the Los Angeles County assessor said. The death toll has risen to ten and will go higher once it is safe to enter the burned-out areas; one of the ten was found in front of his house with a garden hose in his hand. The Palisades Fire could be the costliest in US history, according to a climate expert. The overall cost is estimated at more than $50 billion and will go higher.

Firefighting teams are expecting more wind and dry conditions to continue to complicate efforts into next week. If winds are too strong, firefighting aircraft won’t be able to take off.

California Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara has used his moratorium power to stop non-renewals and cancelations of fire insurance for one year.

A man questioned by police about possible attempted arson Thursday afternoon was arrested on a felony parole violation charge, Los Angeles Police Department Assistant Chief Dominic Choi said Friday morning. Officers responded to calls about a man trying to start a fire who was being detained by members of the public in the 21700 block of Ybarra Road in Woodland Hills, near the Kenneth Fire, at 4:32 p.m. Due to lack of probable cause he was not arrested or charged, , but he was arrested on a felony probation violation.

The Los Angeles District Attorney announced that anyone flying an unauthorized drone will be “prosecuted to the maximum.” "If you're thinking that it's fine to send a drone up in the area for your own amusement, or you want to get information that nobody else can get, and you do it in one of these areas that for which drones are not permitted … you will be arrested, you will be prosecuted and you will be punished to the full extent of the law.” This follows an incident yesterday in which one of the Canadian “Super Scooper” water bombers collided with a drone over a drop over the Palisades Fire, damaging the nose gear and putting the plane out of service until at least Monday for repair. This leaves only one of the “Super Scoopers” in service.

Updates to follow.

#TCinLA #fire update #firestorm #Los Angeles #climate #climate change #Santa Ana winds

7 notes · View notes

democracyunderground · 1 year ago

Text

On Friday, Kenneth Chesebro pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to file false documents in the Fulton County 2020 election conspiracy case, becoming the second high-level Donald Trump co-defendant to become a state’s witness in two days. Chesebro received an especially lenient sentence of five years�� probation, a small financial penalty, and 100 hours of community service.

With the guilty plea and cooperation deal Georgia prosecutors struck on Thursday with Team Trump attorney Sidney Powell, Chesebro’s plea deal should be viewed as an earthquake in the case against Trump. Given Powell’s close proximity to the former president and his legal advisers at crucial times in his attempts to overturn the 2020 election, her testimony will be particularly devastating not only as to defendant Trump, but to co-defendants Rudy Giuliani and John Eastman.

Chesebro’s testimony, meanwhile, implicates one of the key portions of the conspiracy both in Georgia and in the federal Jan. 6 case against Trump, specifically the efforts to create a slate of “false electors” to use during the Jan. 6 electoral count to overturn the results of the 2020 election. Now that both Chesebro and Powell are cooperating witnesses, the pressure on Giuliani and Eastman to plead and cooperate is exponentially higher.

That the significant cooperation under discussion involves four of Trump’s attorneys underscores the reality that the former president’s regularly touted defense that he was relying on the good-faith guidance of his attorneys during the attempted coup was, and is, nothing more than self-serving fantasy. In the courtroom—as compared with on television or in social media—he has never had the ability to offer that defense.

In court, the advice of counsel “affirmative defense” requires a defendant to prove two things: First, that he relied in good faith on his lawyer’s advice that the conduct in question at trial was legal, and second, that he made a full disclosure of all relevant facts to the attorney before receiving that advice.

Based on my four decades in the courtroom as both federal prosecutor and defense attorney, I can report that the assertion of the attorney-client privilege by a criminal defendant at trial is a black swan event—effective only with the consistent, overlapping trial testimony of both the attorney and the defendant, and the admission into evidence of any documents reflecting the communications or advice they testified about.

Putting aside the substantial evidence that Trump was warned by numerous White House lawyers that his efforts to overturn the 2020 election were in violation of the law, how does Trump establish the advice of counsel defense at trial?

As I have observed in prior articles, he is certainly not able to testify on his own behalf. There are surely no memos to the file, emails, or letters to the client evidencing such advice in writing. Finally in this regard, what lawyer is willing to testify he or she advised Trump it was, for example, lawful for him to ask the Georgia secretary of state to “find” enough votes for him to win that state?

Long before the Powell and Chesebro deals were announced, the absurdity of expecting any Trump attorney’s testimony to be anything but harmful to his cause was made crystal clear by Michael Cohen. More recently, when Trump lawyer Evan Corcoran was forced to testify against the former president based on the “crime fraud” exception to the attorney-client privilege, the testimony he gave and the internal memos he was compelled to produce, proved not to be shields for the former president, but swords to be wielded against him—as it is with Powell and Chesebro, and so it will be with others.

After all, what can you expect when your standard for choosing at least some of your lawyers is their willingness to turn a blind eye to whatever your weak ego and malicious intentions require?

In sum, while Georgia and DOJ attorneys have each received great potential benefits from the Powell and Chesebro deals, it was in no way structured to protect against a defense they know Trump cannot employ.

Finally, speaking of structure, the great deals Powell and Chesebro struck, getting probation while facing up to 20 years in jail on a RICO conviction, are certainly a blessing for them—they even get to finally tell the truth.

But District Attorney Fani Willis’ seeming generosity is a sign of shrewd judgment, not weakness.

Prosecutors have both the carrot and the stick to get what they want, and the two deals Willis just made were large carrots, signaling to the other defendants that she is someone they can deal with, and that there are potentially acceptable pathways out of the mess they are in. At the same time, she has just made her case against other, more significant defendants meaningfully stronger and her stick that much larger.

Of course, Willis is a long way from where she needs to be, but those who had originally feared she had overindicted the 19-defendant RICO case might now be a little less concerned and a little more impressed.

49 notes · View notes