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Full Video of Joint Press Conference:
The Story
SOUTH BEND, IN (Redress South Bend) — In an unusual bipartisan display, former Democratic Councilman Henry Davis Jr. and leaders of the St. Joseph County Republican Party held a joint press conference Tuesday morning to address growing concerns surrounding St. Joseph County Judge of Probate Court Jason Cichowicz. The gathering took place outside the Juvenile Justice Center as concerned community members watched in solidarity.
Davis, who served as the councilman for South Bend's 2nd district, delivered a pointed critique of Judge Jason Cichowicz' conduct, emphasizing the imperative for improved leadership. "I am looking for better leadership, because we deserve better leadership," Davis stated. He reaffirmed his Democratic allegiance but committed to supporting what he deemed as the community's best interest, including endorsing a challenger to the incumbent judge, Loris Zappia.
The crux of the conference stemmed from mounting criticism of the failed Bridge Link Program, an initiative associated with Judge Jason Cichowicz. Ben Horvath of Hoosier Conservative Voices highlighted the program's connection to a tragic outcome, which ended with the murder of 19 year old Isaiah Walton-Davis.
Jackie Horvath, St Joseph County Republican Party Chair, further underscored the nonpartisan nature of the press conference. She revealed that local GOP leadership has raised $3,500 towards the funeral expenses of Isaiah Walton-Davis, a gesture aimed at easing the burden on the Walton-Davis family. Horvath mentioned that they are still fundraising the remaining amount needed to cover the outstanding balance.
Horvath also called for Judge Jason Cichowicz' immediate resignation and the discontinuation of the Bridge Link Program, stressing that the appeal transcends political motives and focuses on human impacts. Horvath said: "the tragic consequences of this broken system are not political, they are human." This joint action against Judge Jason Cichowicz reflects a growing urgency among local leaders to enforce accountability, especially amidst rising public grievances.
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