One of two people who believe they’re tackling free speech issues by trying to shoot cell phone videos inside courthouses wants a jury trial. A LaSalle County judge this afternoon denied 29-year old Jacob Farmer’s request to find that there was no proper basis to charge him with obstructing justice five months ago.
After denying the request, Judge H. Chris Ryan asked if Farmer wants a jury trial, a trial by judge, or to think about it. Farmer chose a jury trial and it’s scheduled for September 13th. Farmer is representing himself and is not in jail. He’s allowed to hire an attorney in the meantime if he wants.
Farmer and his 30-year old sister Angel are accused of interfering with security personnel at the LaSalle County courthouse on Etna Rd. At today’s hearing, Jacob Farmer questioned security officer James Knoblauch about just when he was arrested and what he did to be charged. He also asked about the policy banning the public from taking cell phones inside and an arm injury Angel Farmer allegedly inflicted.
No trial is scheduled in Angel Farmer’s case. She recently hired a lawyer after representing herself.
Jacob and Angel Farmer are known in online videos they post as Justice Jake and Accountability Angel.