Protesters to "Occupy" Walton County Courthouse for Second Time

For the second time in the last two weeks, a small group of protestors plan to be outside of the Walton County court house Wednesday to protest alleged unfair practices in the court system.

"We plan to do this as often as possible, every two weeks is our goal," said Deborah Storm, who claims that a ruling that went against her by Alcovy Judicial Circuit Superior Court Judge Eugene Benton was biased. She also claims unfair practices in other instances that she terms "backwoods" type deals. "We believe there is too much who knows what is going on in Walton County and decisions are made that way about court cases before you even arrive for your hearing."

Storm filed a complaint in her case to the Judiciary Authority Committee in Georgia, but it was denied.

"They sent a letter back indicating that they reviewed the case and all I can do is appeal," she said, adding that her attorney has told her that in fact she can't appeal. "I did speak to someone in their office at the Authority and was advised that I can re-file a complaint against the Judge."

Benton was contacted for comment but his office said it really is not appropriate for him to comment publicly on any cases that come before him.

In the meantime, Storm has had some other people join the protest, including several from the Social Circle area. She said there are some 300 in their group now. She spoke to local law enforcement authorities prior to the protest and said she has been told that it is their right to voice their objections. Walton County Sheriff's Office Chief Deputy Keith Brooks confirmed that the first protest was a peaceful event.

"We knew they were there and it is their right to be - there were no problems," Brooks said.

Storm said she believes that even if it doesn't help her case, it will still have a positive effect.  

"Even if it doesn't help cases already heard, it can help those in the future," she said. "Judges will know we mean business and they are being watched. The public will also be made aware that there is a problem. Many will wonder why we are there and you never know- that one person who thought there were no answers, we may be able to help them in some way, direct them to appropriate source of help or just listen to their case inside the court if a hearing is scheduled and be a witness to any unfair court practices going on."