By: CA Staff Writer | Feb 18, 2025
Clarksdale, MS – The City of Clarksdale has been granted a temporary restraining order (TRO) by the Chancery Court of Hinds County, Mississippi, against Delta Press Publishing Company, Inc. (operating as the Clarksdale Press Register), Emmerich Newspapers, Inc., and Floyd Ingram, the newspaper’s publisher. The order, issued by Chancellor Crystal Wise Martin, mandates the immediate removal of an editorial titled “Editorial: Secrecy and Deception Erode Public Trust” from the newspaper’s online platforms.
According to court documents, the city filed a verified petition accusing the publication of defamation against public officials. The petition alleges that the editorial contained statements made with actual malice, demonstrated a reckless disregard for the truth, and interfered with the city’s efforts to advocate for legislative initiatives during the current legislative cycle.
The court found that the city’s accusations were sufficient to justify a TRO, temporarily preventing public access to the editorial until a formal hearing is held. The city is required to post a $100 bond as security for any potential damages the defendants may incur if the TRO is later deemed improper.
A hearing for the city’s request for a preliminary injunction has been scheduled for February 27, 2025, at 9:30 a.m.
This case underscores ongoing tensions between City of Clarksdale and the Clarksdale Press Register over the boundaries of free speech and accountability in public discourse. At this time, neither the City of Clarksdale nor the Clarksdale Press Register has provided public comment.
City Attorney Melvin Miller presented the TRO application on behalf of the city, requesting the removal of the allegedly libelous editorial from the newspaper’s website and other online platforms. The court granted the request, requiring the removal of the editorial.
“The City touts this as a victory for truth. Not even newspapers can imply lies against city officials conducting city business and get away with it. For a TRO to be granted, there must be merit on the front end. A full hearing is scheduled for Thursday, February 27, 2025, in Hinds County Chancery Court,” (Miller said).
*To report a spelling or grammar error or inaccurate information, please email us at info@clarksdaleadvocate.com.
