On Monday, July 22, 2024, Greg P. Givens filed a petition for a writ of prohibition or in the alternative mandamus, procedendo, and/or quo warranto against Judge David Trouten in the Supreme Court of Ohio.
Givens, who is representing himself, outlined numerous allegations regarding his criminal case currently before Judge Trouten in Belmont County Court. Givens claims Trouten has violated his constitutional rights to a speedy trial, legal counsel, confrontation of evidence and witnesses, and due process.
The petition states Givens has been involved in case number 23-CR-B-0012-E in Belmont County for nearly 600 days. Givens argues this violates his right to a speedy trial under the Sixth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution and corresponding sections of the Ohio Constitution. He also alleges Trouten has denied him access to legal counsel, violating his right to representation.
Furthermore, Givens asserts Trouten has deprived him of the ability to confront witnesses and evidence presented against him. He notes Trouten has failed to provide the names of accusers from police reports. Givens also claims Trouten has violated his right to due process through delays, failure to rule on motions, and denial of habeas corpus petitions.
The petition raises additional concerns about Trouten denying Givens’ other constitutional rights, including self-incrimination, freedom of speech, and protection from cruel and unusual punishment. Givens indicates Trouten has subjected him to excessive bail and bond restrictions. He also argues Trouten has made false statements in court orders about Givens’ character.
Trouten now has the opportunity to respond to the allegations. As the case proceeds through the Supreme Court of Ohio, the Justice’s will evaluate whether Trouten’s handling of the criminal matter has overstepped judicial boundaries and violated Givens’ constitutional protections.
A copy of the original filing can be found here.
