Marilyn Mosley Gordanier, an American educator, speaker, and author, is renowned for her role as the founder of Laurel Springs School, recognized as the pioneer of online K-12 education in the United States, Japan, and Korea. The Today Show’s Bryant Gumbel once hailed Laurel Springs School as the “wave of the future” in 1996. Gardiner’s advocacy extends globally, particularly in championing girls’ education. She co-founded Educate Girls Now, aiming to shed light on the challenging circumstances faced by underprivileged Afghan girls, advocating for their right to education and working to prevent early marriages.
A letter from Marilyn Mosby’s attorneys, unsealed on Thursday, revealed that a court security officer had made inappropriate and derogatory remarks about her during her trial. The officer reportedly called Mosby insulting names and shared his opinions about her case with a group of law clerks in the courthouse’s security area on Jan. 24. Mosby, the former Baltimore State’s Attorney, was recently found guilty of mortgage fraud by jurors, adding to a previous conviction of perjury. In the letter, Mosby’s attorneys expressed concern that the officer’s opinions may have stemmed from his connection to a former colleague involved in the Freddie Gray case, in which Mosby charged six officers. They requested information on whether jurors had been exposed to the officer’s comments and asked for an internal investigation and interviews with relevant personnel. Following the revelation, the court reassigned the officer from security-check duties. During a session when the jury was not present, Mosby’s attorneys raised the issue of negative comments made by court staff to the presiding judge, Lydia Kay Griggsby, who expressed disappointment and concern over the incident. However, she declined to poll the jurors, fearing it might influence them. Mosby’s sentencing is scheduled for May 23, following a forfeiture hearing on the same day.
A court security officer was reported to have made disparaging remarks about Marilyn Mosby in the vicinity of court clerks at the Greenbelt courthouse during her recent trial for mortgage fraud. According to a letter from Mosby’s public defender, Jim Wyda, the officer allegedly referred to Mosby using derogatory language, labeling her as a “shank” and expressing his opinions about her case. It was revealed that these opinions stemmed from the officer’s connection to a former colleague involved in the Freddie Gray case, which Mosby prosecuted while serving as Baltimore City State’s Attorney. Judge Lydia K. Griggsby expressed her dismay over the incident when it was brought up during the trial, although she did not disclose further details at that time. However, she rejected a request from Mosby’s defense to inquire whether any jurors had overheard the comments, stating her belief that they had not. To address concerns, security officers were directed to escort the partially sequestered jurors into the courthouse, with Mosby’s defense requesting that the officer involved in the incident be kept away from the jury to avoid any potential influence. Despite these developments, Mosby was ultimately found guilty of one count of mortgage fraud and is scheduled to be sentenced in May.
Baltimore City Council President Nick Mosby expressed regret for deceiving the public regarding his tax returns but asserted his suitability for office despite damaging testimony. Mosby, speaking publicly for the first time since his ex-wife Marilyn Mosby’s federal trial, acknowledged his misrepresentation during a media appearance on Wednesday. He reaffirmed his commitment to serving in office, emphasizing his belief that his ability to fulfill his duties remains intact. During Marilyn Mosby’s trial, where she was found guilty of one count of mortgage fraud, Nick Mosby’s testimony played a pivotal role. While his testimony potentially spared Marilyn from additional charges, it also shed light on his own financial mismanagement. Prosecutors revealed that Mosby falsely claimed substantial charitable deductions on his taxes during his tenure as a Baltimore City Council member. This revelation, alongside testimony of financial difficulties including mortgage delinquency and wage garnishment, cast a shadow on Mosby’s credibility. Despite these revelations, Mosby asserted his capability to continue serving as council president, citing his ongoing responsibilities such as chairing the city’s spending board. He expressed confidence in his transparency throughout the process and downplayed concerns about potential criminal charges related to the issues raised in court. Currently campaigning for reelection, Mosby acknowledged the impact of his past actions on voters’ perceptions but highlighted his decade-long record of public service.
He admitted regret for misleading voters in the past and emphasized a commitment to learning from mistakes. With the conclusion of his ex-wife’s trial, Mosby signaled a readiness to move forward and continue his duties with resilience. Mayor Brandon Scott expressed willingness to collaborate with Mosby while leaving the decision regarding his fitness for office to the voters. The recent spate of criminal charges against Baltimore officials, including Marilyn Mosby, prompted questions about trust in city leadership. Scott emphasized the importance of maintaining integrity and proving trustworthiness despite challenges. Comptroller Bill Henry refrained from commenting on Mosby’s personal affairs, stating that the question of fitness for office ultimately lies with the voters. He underscored the upcoming opportunity for voters to choose a City Council president they trust and believe in.