Protesters Stay Strong but Silent

 

 

Lynn Bledsoe

Gimlet Managing Editor

 

Protesters gathered outside the courthouse in Brownsville on Thursday, August 14 to stage a silent protest. Protesters stated they were tired of things being swept under the rug in Edmonson County. Protesters voiced frustration that bail decisions seemed to be biased. They felt a $2,500 bond for an alleged child sexual predator was too low. Candi Alford held a sign that implied- $25,000 for marijuana versus $2,500 for crimes against children. Christie Baker, the main person who started the protest, was not in attendance due to a work schedule conflict.  Nick Sanders co-sponsor was on hand and said the bonds set were backwards. Someone accused of harming a child should be under a higher bond than someone who was accused of marijuana possession.

Protesters also felt that coverage of a recent incident was not publicized. They believe the protest will demonstrate to the judicial system that residents expect change in how things are handled and will draw more attention to the issues.

 

 

Lastly, protesters wanted to remind the community that support exists for victims in the county. Sara Hennion said that anyone harming a child—physically, mentally, or through lewd images—must face consequences.

Protesters hope that raising awareness will encourage others to speak out and spark meaningful change.

There were quite a few law enforcement officers on hand as rumors of out-of-town protesters attending had been circulated. No one other than residents attended and it was a peaceful and quiet protest.

 

 

The protest coincided with the arraignment hearing of Tyler Skaggs, who faces 11 counts of a class B felony for Promoting a Sexual Performance by a minor less than 16 years of age. Skaggs was indicted by a grand jury on or about July 24, 2025. An indictment is a formal charge and should not be considered as evidence of guilt, and all persons charged with a crime are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.