In a shocking display of power, Jeff Davis County officials have driven the Big Bend Times and its publisher out of the area. This successful media outlet, which recently brought in over $17,000 in monthly revenue, was forced to relocate due to a relentless campaign of harassment and intimidation by those in power, raising serious concerns about government overreach and the suppression of free press in the region.
Under the leadership of media scholar David Flash, the Big Bend Times had proven that local journalism could be economically sustainable while holding officials accountable. However, instead of supporting this crucial role, county officials appeared intent on silencing the publication through a series of aggressive actions.
Campaign of Intimidation
The harassment began with Lisa Denissen, an assistant in the County Attorney’s office, who confronted and publicly shamed a reporter at an Alpine bakery, allegedly using confidential information accessed illegally. This led to a criminal complaint citing violations of Texas Government Code Section 552.352. But this was just the beginning.
Deputy King Merritt escalated the situation by pulling over the publisher near the Big Bend Times office, issuing a questionable ticket, and threatening arrest without reasonable cause. According to statements from the Sheriff’s Office, County Judge Curtis Evans ordered the publisher’s removal from the courthouse, with deputies threatening arrest without legal grounds.
Further, Judge Mary Ann Luedecke attempted to detain the publisher for photographing a sign outside her office, raising serious questions about overreach and the abuse of authority. Her actions, including an illegal detention attempt, highlighted the extent to which officials were willing to go to suppress journalistic activities.
Forced to Relocate but Not Silenced
Faced with this concerted harassment, Big Bend Times has relocated its operations to Central Texas and Europe, where Flash is also working on expanding into the European online publication market. Despite being pushed out of Jeff Davis County, the publication remains the dominant media outlet for the region and continues its commitment to covering local issues. While the area may not currently operate as a safe, democratically run community, Big Bend Times aims to use its reporting to shine a light on and address the corruption.
A Loss for the Community
By forcing out one of its most successful businesses, Jeff Davis County has not only lost a significant economic contributor but has also shown a disregard for the principles of a free press. Big Bend Times’ continued operations, even after being forced out, underscore the resilience of independent journalism and its vital role in maintaining democratic accountability.
This ongoing effort to cover and expose corruption in Jeff Davis County serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of a strong, independent Fourth Estate. It also highlights the dangers when government officials attempt to silence those who work to keep them accountable.
Texas Reporter 