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The Public Has a Right to Know Whether Government Agencies Followed the Law Before Taking Someone’s Freedom.

- by Michael Phillips - Leave a Comment

Los Angeles and San Diego officials are withholding public records related to the prosecution of Giselle Farias Smiel, raising concerns about transparency and due process. Despite legal obligations under the California Public Records Act, agencies have issued denials and delays, undermining public trust and accountability in the justice system.

The Public Has a Right to Know Whether Government Agencies Followed the Law Before Taking Someone’s Freedom. Read More
Ada Accommodations / Beyond Barriers and Disability Rights / California / California Watch / Civil Rights / Civil Rights / Constitutional Law / Constitutional Rights / Court Reform / Crime & Violence / Disability / Disability Rights / Disability Rights / Due Process Denied / Family Court / Legal Reform / Misconduct / San Marcos Abduction Attempt / The Smiel Series

Inside People v. Smiel: When Process Becomes the Story

- by Michael Phillips - Leave a Comment

Giselle Smiel faces five felonies, including kidnapping, for picking up her crying child at a San Diego school. Her defense argues there was no force or substantial movement, pointing to lack of evidence and jurisdictional issues. Advocates highlight constitutional violations and ADA neglect in her arrest, seeking dismissal of charges and oversight on family-court mechanisms in criminal cases.

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Ada Accommodations / Beyond Barriers and Disability Rights / California / California Watch / Civil Rights / Disability / Disability Rights / Disability Rights / Discrimination / Domestic Violence / Family Court / Misconduct / Rights and Freedoms / San Marcos Abduction Attempt

They Locked Her Down, Then Shut Her Up: How San Diego Jails Punish Disabled Survivors

- by Michael Phillips - 2 Comments.

Giselle Smiel, a survivor of domestic violence, faced significant barriers to ADA Title II accommodations during her detention. Despite multiple requests, she lacked effective communication supports and experienced retaliation. The case highlights systemic failures in recognizing invisible disabilities and ensuring compliance, ultimately underscoring the need for accountability in custody settings.

They Locked Her Down, Then Shut Her Up: How San Diego Jails Punish Disabled Survivors Read More