The Supreme Court is considering a dispute over the use of race to redraw political districts. Alabama told the justices in arguments Wednesday that it had no choice but to concentrate black voters in some legislative districts, making the neighboring seats more white and apt to elect Republicans. African-Americans challenging the state's Republican-drawn maps argue that black voters should have been somewhat dispersed to increase their influence in elections.
Troy Highway Murder
Montgomery Police are investigating a homicide from last night at a location on the Troy Highway. Police and Fire Medics were called to the 4000 block of Troy Highway around 7:25 p.m. where they discovered 33-year-old Trevis Green with a fatal gunshot wound. Details about the shooting have not been released. Authorities say no arrests have been made. They are asking anyone with information on the murder to call them at 625-2831, the Secret Witness Line a 262-4000 or CrimeStoppers at 215-STOP.
Lengthy Sentences
The United States District Court for the Middle District of Alabama concluded sentencing Wednesday for eight individuals arrested during last year's dog fighting raid. The sentences ranged from six months to eight years with an additional two to three year term of supervised released for each defendant. U.S. Attorney for Alabama's Middle District, George Beck says this is the second largest dog fighting case in United States History. This case also brought forth a change in existing federal law, it is now a felony to attend a dog fighting event, which is punishable by up to one year in prison.
Superintendent Promotions
Two well-regarded school superintendents in the state have accepted administrative posts with the Alabama Department of Education. Hoover Schools Superintendent Andy Craig and Elmore County Schools Superintendent Jeff Langham will now become the Deputy Superintendent for Administrative and Financial Services and the Assistant Superintendent for External and Governmental Affairs, respectively. Both men are projected to start January 1st.