Many aspects of Tennessee life are trying to morph back to normal this week, but our court system is not one of them.
Warren County Courthouse will remain closed the entire month of May, the Tennessee Supreme Court has announced.
A few court cases are being settled via video for inmates in jail. This is being done so inmates are not stuck in jail serving too much time for a minor infraction.
“We’re trying to be aware of the circumstances of our inmates,” said District Attorney General Lisa Zavogiannis.
Two inmates were released on time served last Wednesday when their cases were heard on Zoom by Circuit Court Judge Bart Stanley.
Zavogiannis and Circuit Court Clerk Casi Cantrell acknowledge there will be a logjam when court resumes, hopefully in June.
“There are going to be some very large dockets and I think it’s inevitable we’re going to have to add some extra court dates,” Cantrell said.
Courthouse offices remain open for phone calls Monday thru Friday from 8 a.m. to noon. Call 473-2373.
While coronavirus has altered many aspects of life, Cantrell said it won’t get you out of jury duty. She said she expects current jurors to have their time extended since they have been unable to serve during the closure.
As for action last week in Circuit Court, Judge Stanley ruled on the following cases:
Robbie A. Bates was ordered to serve 60 days of a two-year sentence for unauthorized use of another person’s vehicle and vandalism. He was ordered to make $1,600 restitution.
Matthew Justin Collins was released on 56 days time served for violation of probation.
Brandi D. Hill was released on 154 days time served for introduction of contraband into a penal institution and evading arrest.
Dustin Arthur Goodine-McCarty was ordered to serve 180 days of a one-year sentence as a range one offender for evading arrest, possession of meth and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was fined $750.
Daniel Matthew Muncey was given an eight-year sentence and fined $2,000 for delivery of ecstasy and attempt to introduce contraband into a penal institution.
Tammy Star Murphy was ordered to serve 90 days of a three-year sentence for introduction of contraband into a penal institution. She can be furloughed to adult recovery court.
