MEDIA Advisory

media_advisory_cardell_hayes_section_h_2016-12-05.pdf
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Media Advisory
Criminal District Court for the Parish of Orleans
Robert Kazik, Judicial Administrator
(504) 658-9103
 
 
Released: November 30, 2016
 
 
State of Louisiana Cardell Hayes Trial                                     Case Number: 528-975, Section H
Honorable Camille Buras, Judge Presiding                                           Courtroom: 8, Grand Hall
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  1. Members of the media will access the building through the main courthouse entrance on Tulane Avenue with proper press credentials visible for inspection.  Press credentials must be worn while in the building.  This access does not exempt members of the media from normal security procedures.
  2. The Court has granted members of the media the provisional use of portable communication devices, laptop computers and iPads subject to the following conditions:
    1. The devices are placed in silent mode,
    2. The user steps into the hall to speak in a non-disruptive manner,
    3. They are not disruptive or distracting to others,
    4. The camera/video/audio functions are not used,
    5. The media will access the internet through their own means.
  3. No cameras are allowed in the courthouse.  Camera functions on cell phones or other electronic devices may not be used.
  4. The Court has reserved four (4) marked rows of seating for members of the media who have registered with the Judicial Administrator and who are wearing proper press credentials visible for inspection.  These rows are available on a first-come first-served basis. 
  5. An “overflow” location with contemporaneous audio feed from Section H’s courtroom may be provided for media but is subject to space and technical limitations.  Video and audio recordings shall be prohibited in this “overflow” area and all previously mentioned prohibitions apply as well.  Signage of this “overflow” location will be posted once determined.
  6. Pursuant to the Louisiana Supreme Code of Judicial Conduct – Canon 3 (9):
                                a. A trial judge should prohibit broadcasting, televising, recording, or taking photographs in the courtroom and areas immediately                                               adjacent thereto at least during sessions of court or recesses between sessions.
  1. Pursuant to the Court En Banc, photographs or video recordings of any of the interiors of the courthouse, including the grand hall, is strictly prohibited.
  2. During the trial, prior to a witness taking the stand, the Court may instruct the gallery that the courtroom will be sealed until the witness is excused from the stand.  No one will be allowed to enter or leave the courtroom during the witness’s testimony. 
  3. At the conclusion of the day’s proceeding, and if the parties involved wish to preak with the media, parties have agreed to meet outside at the bottom of the steps at the main courthouse entrance.  No interviews are to be conducted in the interior of the courthouse.
  4. Media trucks may utilize the spots directly in front of the courthouse that are normally reserved for “Judge’s Only”.  Parking is prohibited on the courthouse lawn, sidewalks and in any areas reserved for handicapped and/or emergency vehicles.  In the event of inclement weather, media outlets may set up canopies on the courthouse lawn but not infringe on the public sidewalks or pathway leading to the front steps of the courthouse.
  5. Members of the media will refrain from speaking or attempting to make any contact with members of the jury venire at any time during the proceedings including jury selection.
  6. Should there be a visit to the crime scene, for the safety and privacy of our jurors, members of the media will refrain from filming any facial or identifying shots of the jurors.
  7. Any person in violation of these rules may be held in contempt of court, be subject to monetary sanctions and permanent prohibition from entry into the courtroom for the duration of the trial.