Mistrial after minor mechanical malfunction at courthouse

Mistrial after minor mechanical malfunction at courthouse

A repeat, two-day air-conditioning issue at the State Office Building and Bennington Courthouse led to an evacuation and an eventual mistrial in a double kidnapping case Wednesday.

UPPJ flunks courthouse legal obligations

The Union Parish Police Jury “UPPJ” is required by law toprovide and bear the expense for a suitable building and requisitefurniture for District and Circuit Courts. R.S. 33:4713(A). The Parishis responsible for security provided in the courthouse; however,judges are authorized to implement rules of decorum and conductwithin their courtroom and judicial offices. The Parish shall alsoprovide a good and sufficient courthouse, with rooms for jurors…