Commissioner Victor Thomas cut off the microphone of Commissioner Grace Ann Blake at the Commission’s work session on Monday. Thomas had no legal authority for his actions.
By cutting off Blake’s mike, Thomas acted in his capacity as the Commission’s parliamentarian. Thus, his actions should constitute malfeasance in office by an elected official. This is a crime under Louisiana law.
Additionally, Thomas’ action represents a violation of Blake’s rights to communicate at a Commission meeting. This action is a violation of Blake’s federal civil rights and it is a basis for litigation against Thomas by Blake.
Frazier’s rulings on when commissioners are entitled to legal representation at the parish expense have been inconsistent to say the least. One wonders if her judgments have been based on race and/or the party of the Commissioners subject to legal action.