Thursday, October 22, 2009

More Developments in the Heather Ellis Walmart Trial – She Faces 15 Years for Cutting Line

(Photo)

Heather Ellis, arm-in-arm with her mother, Hester Ellis, exits the Stoddard County Justice Center Wednesday afternoon following a pre-trial hearing in a case that has gained national attention.

Staff photos by Corey Noles

Case garners national attention, support from ACLU, NAACP and SCLC

A hearing in Bloomfield Wednesday afternoon brought out protestors including members of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).

The case against Heather Renae Ellis of Kennett has garnered national attention from such groups as she tells her side of a story stemming from a Jan. 6, 2007 incident at the Kennett Walmart.

(Photo)

Heather Ellis (second from left with head bowed), gathered with supporters in a circle of prayer following Wednesday's court proceedings. About a dozen people representing family, friends, ACLU members and representatives of the NAACP, were present in the Stoddard County courtroom for Ellis' pre-trial proceeding. Leading the group prayer, at left, is Rev. Dwight Montgomery of Memphis, with the Southern Christian Leadership Conference

As soon as court began, Judge Joe Satterfield made it clear that he would not tolerate any bad behavior in his courtroom.

"I know emotions have been high in this case," he said. "However, any outbursts will be dealt with swiftly."

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