On Friday, November 1, 2024, WLOX reported that Mississippi Judge Randi P. Mueller recused herself from a legal case involving a Biloxi couple’s effort to establish a bed and breakfast due to a potential ethical violation. The controversy arose after a package was sent to her home address, which allegedly aimed to influence her decision in the ongoing case.
Dan and Heidi Hoye, who relocated from Wisconsin to Biloxi three years ago, purchased a property on Glenn Swetman Street with the intention of converting it into a bed and breakfast. In October 2023, the City of Biloxi granted a zoning change that permitted the couple to operate their business. Shortly thereafter, an appeal was filed, challenging the city’s decision.
During a court hearing on June 6, 2024, Judge Mueller indicated that a ruling would be made later in the summer. However, in July, it was revealed that she had received a package at her home, which led to concerns about her impartiality. According to the Hoyes, they were informed that the package did not originate from them or their legal team. WLOX News also confirmed with the appellants’ attorney, Matthew McDade, that neither he nor his clients sent any material to the judge.
The court order obtained by WLOX News indicated that on July 9, Judge Mueller received a package intended to influence the court’s ruling. Following this incident, a hearing was held on July 16 to discuss the matter with attorneys involved in the case. On July 22, Judge Mueller issued an order recusing herself, stating that the origins of the package did not appear to be linked to any party involved in the case.
The package’s source has been speculated to be linked to the West Biloxi Development Alliance, a group formed by local residents Jared Fusco and Wendy Lally. Fusco expressed concerns about the use of their group’s name in connection with the package, stating that they had not sent anything to the judge and sought clarity on the matter.
After Judge Mueller recused herself, the contents of the package were sealed. WLOX News has since requested that the judge unseal the packet, but no response has been received to date.
As the situation unfolds, the Hoyes continue to face challenges in their bid to open the bed and breakfast, drawing support from local residents who share their frustrations. Community members have voiced concerns over longstanding opposition to change in the neighborhood, with some emphasizing Biloxi’s tourism and hospitality focus as a reason to support the couple’s venture.
In August 2024, Judge Lawrence Bourgeois, Jr. was assigned to the case following Judge Mueller’s recusal. As of now, no timeline has been provided for when he will deliver a decision regarding the appeal.
Source: WLOX
