Journalists should be free to cover local news without fear of retaliation—but in Jeff Davis County, that freedom is under attack. David Flash, publisher of Big Bend Times, is facing politically motivated charges after his reporting raised questions about the actions of local officials.

Big Bend Times has reported across the tri-county area (Jeff Davis, Brewster, and Presidio counties). Only Jeff Davis County has repeatedly threatened its publisher with arrest.

The Facts:
Justice of the Peace Mary Ann Luedecke refused to recuse herself from overseeing Flash’s traffic citation—even though she had previously accused him of "terrorizing" her. If she truly believed she was a victim, why would she insist on staying on his case?
Jeff Davis County is the only county in the region that has repeatedly threatened Flash with arrest. His publication has covered Brewster and Presidio counties without issue, but Jeff Davis County has made threats multiple times.
Other justices of the peace in the region provided clear, professional answers when Flash contacted their offices. Only Luedecke’s office failed to respond professionally, gave contradictory answers, and resorted to threats.
Now, the Texas Attorney General’s Office is involved—on behalf of Jeff Davis County. Rather than ensuring accountability, the OAG is being used to advance a case that appears to be retaliatory and politically motivated.
This prosecution is a massive waste of taxpayer dollars.The case requires a prosecutor from Austin and a judge from San Antonio—forcing them to drive hundreds of miles for each hearing.
With legal fees, travel costs, court expenses, and potential appeals, the prosecution could cost taxpayers $50,000 to $100,000 or more—just to punish a journalist for doing his job.
Jeff Davis County’s Misplaced Priorities
This case raises serious concerns about how county officials are spending public funds.

Instead of focusing on real community needs, Jeff Davis County is spending tens of thousands of taxpayer dollars to prosecute a journalist for covering local news.
Meanwhile, officials refuse to explain other questionable spending—such as the purchase of a $70,000 taxpayer-funded truck for the Justice of the Peace, even though JPs in Brewster and Presidio counties use their personal vehicles for official duties.
Our Demand:
We, the undersigned, call on:

✅ The Texas Attorney General’s Office to carefully review this case, recognize its retaliatory nature, and drop the charges.
✅ Jeff Davis County to end its ongoing abuse of power and stop using the legal system to target journalists.
✅ State and county officials to refocus resources on real community needs, not politically motivated prosecutions.

Why This Matters:
Local journalism holds officials accountable. If Jeff Davis County gets away with targeting a journalist for asking questions, who will they go after next?

Sign this petition to protect press freedom, stop the abuse of power, and demand transparency in Jeff Davis County!