New Judge Assigned to McBride Residency Lawsuit

New Judge Assigned to McBride Residency Lawsuit Date: 04/03/25

Author: Logan Foster

South Bend, IN – On April 3, 2025, the Honorable Mark P. Telloyan was randomly selected as the new judge in the Sharon McBride residency lawsuit. This development comes after three previous judges recused themselves from the case within a short span of 66 days, each citing conflicts of interest.

The case, Brian S. Collier v. Sharon McBride, has garnered significant public attention due to its implications for South Bend's local government. Collier, a resident of South Bend’s 3rd Common Council District, alleges that Sharon McBride, who holds the districts council seat, has failed to meet residency requirements established by Indiana law and municipal codes.

---

Four Judges

Initially, the case was overseen by the Honorable Andre Gammage, followed by Judge John Broden and later the Honorable William Wilson. Judge Broden and Hon. Gammage recused themselves citing their personal or professional ties to McBride. While Judge Wilson’s recusal was prompted after the plaintiff highlighted his long-standing affiliation with the law firm representing McBride, where he worked for over 14 years. The appointment of Judge Telloyan represents the fourth and hopefully the final Judge assigned to this contentious case.

---

The Lawsuit

At the heart of the lawsuit is an allegation that Sharon McBride has lived outside the 3rd District since 2020, a violation of South Bend Municipal Code, Indiana election laws, and constitutional requirements. Collier claims that McBride has resided in the neighboring 2nd District at the home of her mother, Delores Walker.

Court filings include detailed evidence, such as water usage reports, trash collection logs, and deposition transcripts where McBride admitted to her extended stay outside the 3rd District. Despite owning a property within the district, McBride cited uninhabitable conditions caused by black mold as the reason for her absence, claiming it was unsafe for residential living.

McBride’s public defense attempts to argue that she's still connected to the district without actually living in the district. (contrary to the residency requirements in the Indiana Code) According to her attorney, she frequently visits the residence, collects mail, and inspects the property. However, local residents question whether these actions fulfill the spirit of the residency requirements. Public records show minimal utility usage at the property, raising doubts about regular, if any, habitation.

---

The Path Ahead

Judge Telloyan now faces the task of navigating not only the legal intricacies of the case but also its broader impact on community trust. With public enthusiasm for accountability at an all-time high, the case is seen as a litmus test for ethical governance in South Bend.

---

Updates

Redress South Bend has been following the Sharon McBride controversy and developments closely, we will update you as we have more information relating to this story. Be sure to check www.RedressSouthBend.com regularly for updates!