RAW FILE: Letter from the attorney of Vanessa Jones to Hattiesburg | News

KIM T. CHAZE

Attorney at Law

7 Surrey Lane 603-292-6385 Durham, NH 03824 kchaze@comcast.net  

September 25, 2012

Hattiesburg City Council City Hall 200 Forrest Street Hattiesburg, MS 39401

Mr. Johnny L. DuPree Mayor, City of Hattiesburg City Hall 200 Forrest Street Hattiesburg, MS 39401

Re: Position/Objection/Grievance of Judge Vanessa Jones

Dear Mayor and Council:

Although Judge Jones' position should be clear, we wish to accentuate that she is not resigning her position as Municipal Court Judge. She is not voluntarily leaving her position. She is clearly the victim of discriminatory and retaliatory conduct. She has honorably and faithfully served the City of Hattiesburg for many years.

She is the Senior Municipal Court Judge. There is no justification for her termination. She has complained about mistreatment of her. Now, she is being retaliated against. Furthermore, she is being replaced by a Caucasian male who has no judicial experience whatsoever. The alleged vacancy has not even been advertised or placed in a competitive environment. Mr. Evans, a friend of the Mayor's, was simply given the position. This itself is indicative of discrimination.

It is particularly egregious in light of the fact that, previously, it has been acknowledged by the Mayor, the Council, and members of the Judiciary and the legal Bar that three Judges are needed --not merely one. This maneuver of only utilizing one Judge, instead of three, jeopardizes the rights of many. It is senseless, illogical, and dangerous.

The foregoing is wrong on many levels. This includes: constitutional, contractual, and civil wrongs. Moreover, it is wrong on its face. It is replete with discrimination and retaliation. It also triggers Due Process violations.

September 25, 2012

Kindly consider this letter as Judge Jones' objection to her mistreatment as well as her grievance regarding it. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Sincerely,

KIM 1. CHAZE

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