Earlier version of this story provided a misleading impression that chairwoman’s services was improper.
Author Archives: Charles Maldonado
Charles Maldonado is the editor of The Lens. He previously worked as The Lens' government accountability reporter, covering local politics and criminal justice. Prior to joining The Lens, he worked for Gambit, New Orleans
Posted inGovernment & Politics
Civil Service Commission abruptly changes city hiring practices without explanation
In addition to the lack of discussion on changes, members won’t even confirm how they voted.
Posted inGovernment & Politics, Investigations
Politically connected company would benefit from state Amendment 3
After the Supreme Court in January struck down a New Orleans ordinance that allowed tax-collection contractors to charge a 10 percent fee on past-due bills, it called into question a similar statewide law — both written by collections contractor Archon Information Systems. The Louisiana Municipal Association is lobbying for the passage of an amendment Tuesday that would make the arrangement unambiguously legal. A subsidiary of the Municipal Association benefits financially from a deal with Archon, and the company is bankrolling the association’s political-action committee and has sponsored the association’s events.
Posted inCriminal Justice
Mayor, sheriff quietly end much-criticized per diem method for paying for prisoners
City says in January, it started paying Gusman a flat amount, though such an arrangement could run afoul of decades-old federal court order.
Posted inGovernment & Politics
Citing his extensive judicial experience, Paul Sens waves off accusations of nepotism, impropriety
As a municipal judge, Sens said he has a track record of moving cases through. Now he’s seeking a seat in Criminal District Court.
Posted inGovernment & Politics
Byron Williams would set goal of being one of Criminal District Court’s most efficient judges
He would inherit one of the city’s most backlogged dockets.
Posted inCriminal Justice, Government & Politics
Marie Williams says she’d straighten out dysfunctional courtroom if elected criminal judge
She put herself in the spotlight by recording a meeting with Judge Frank Marullo in which she says he offered her a job to get out of the race.
Posted inCriminal Justice, Government & Politics
Frank Marullo wants to extend his 40-year run as judge, but he may be too old to take office
If elected to another term, he said he would lobby to loosen mandatory minimum sentencing.
Posted inCriminal Justice, Government & Politics
Graham Bosworth says he’d modernize criminal court by setting up online calendar, allowing email motions
Bosworth is challenging Marullo, Louisiana’s longest-serving judge, as well as attorney Marie Williams.
Posted inGovernment & Politics
Landrieu proposes 6 percent increase to city budget; addresses consent decrees
NOPD to see 150 more officers, raises for all officers; city workers to get paid maternity leave.