DUVAL COUNTY, Fla. — The chief judge of Florida's 4th Circuit Court has rescinded an order that many called an attack on the First Amendment.
Chief Judge Mark Mahon on Wednesday morning rescinded an administrative orderthat banned photography of secured areas at the Duval County courthouse and demonstrations that disrupt or interfere with court business or JSO officers.
Mahon issued an order 12 days ago in response to two incidents involving Michale Hoffman from the group Photography Is Not a Crime, or PINAC.
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That order banned people from saying anything bad about a judge or the court process while on court property.
A few days later, Mahon threw out that order and issued a new one changing the limitations on what people can say.
PINAC has filed a federal lawsuit, but Carlos Miller with PINAC says the group's attorney will likely withdraw the lawsuit against Judge Mahon.
“Although I’m happy that the order has been rescinded, I have to ask what motivated Judge Mahon to issue it in the first place. His decision to rescind the order shows the power of the people,” Hoffman said.
WJAX
