Federal Lawsuit Update in Grantville Georgia

A lawsuit filed by Mr. Pickron against Grantville Mayor Richard Proctor and Grantville Police Officer Willie Norris was filed in the Coweta County Superior Court on June 06, 2024 (SUV2024000655). The case was removed by the Defendants to the Federal Court Newnan District (3:24-cv-00152-TCB). 

The lawsuit currently sits awaiting Honorable Timothy C. Batten’s decision on a Summary Judgment Motion filed by the Defense. Mr. Pickron’s response to Defendants Summary Judgement Motion gained a reply from Attorney Tracy Glanton. At the commencement of this suit, Mayor Richard Proctor stated that they have retained Tracy Glanton, and she is the same attorney that crucified a previous suit brought by Grantville resident Robert Royce. Tracy Glanton is with Atlanta law firm Elarbee, Thompson, Sapp, Wilson, LLP. This is the same firm that defended Mr. Royce’s previous suit against the city for voting to indict him for filing to many open records requests. 

According to the Defendants, the Plaintiff is not afforded the right to freedom of the Press. In a reply to response through Glanton it says, “he has not proffered any evidence that he is the “press,” or that he was otherwise excepted from the permit requirements." Does this mean that NO ONE may photograph or film in public in Grantville without providing the city with press credentials. Does everyone have to stop by city hall and prove one is not a production company before filming or photographing public areas in Grantville, Georgia. 

Officer Norris issued Mr. Pickron a citation for exercising the fundamental rights everyone in America is guaranteed. When Mr. Pickron quotes caselaw to support such activity, the Defense objects. Defendants object to Plaintiffs “fact” on the grounds that it is not supported. The First Amendment protects the right to gather information about what public officials do on public property, and specifically, a right to record matters of public interest. See Blackston v. Alabama , 30 F.3d 117, 120 (11th Cir. 1994).

It appears that if anyone wants to photograph or film public officials in Grantville, you may need a permit. This is what looks to be a portion of the argument the Defendants are using to curtail and chill people’s First Amendment rights. 

We will be releasing all documents and information related to this suit soon. Until then, you can find the public records through PACER .