Kings County Supreme Court, Criminal Term

"Jury duty experience: People here very friendly. However there are some things I wish I knew before I came for jury duty. Checking in you go through the metal detector. There are signs saying no food and drink - however you CAN bring food and drink - just no drink in a glass container. During the juror instructions we were told we could bring lunch back to the jury 'lounge' (don't get excited, it is just another room with rows of chairs) - though most stayed out for lunch. It is recommended you bring water or something to drink at minimum. There is NO vending machine. There may be a place to fill water bottles but I did not see anything. You are sitting around a lot so bring a book or something to read. You can use electronics in the lounge room. Some people had laptops and were able to work. There is a room next to the lounge with booth desks. It was a very hot day and the aircon inside was refreshing to start with but cold quickly after. Bring a layer! Lastly if you want to watch TV on your phone or device please use headphones!"

"After uncovering new information, it has become apparent that there may have been a significant conflict of interest influencing Judge Dena Douglas's decision in the case of Barry Wells, who was charged with the murder of his wife, Tonie Nicole Lopez. It has come to light that Judge Douglas “allegedly” may have been friends with Barry Wells' mother, raising serious doubts about the impartiality of the judicial process. If true, such personal connections undermine the integrity of the legal system and call into question the fairness of the outcome. Moreover, if these allegations are true, Judge Douglas's failure to recuse herself from the case, despite the obvious conflict of interest, likely constitutes a violation of the New York State Rules of Judicial Conduct, specifically Rule 2.11, which requires judges to disqualify themselves in proceedings where their impartiality might reasonably be questioned. If she allowed personal relationships to influence her decision-making, as alleged, Judge Douglas has eroded public trust in the judiciary and compromised the pursuit of justice for Tony Wells and her loved ones. This revelation reinforces the urgency for a thorough investigation into this matter by the appropriate authorities. It underscores the critical need for transparency, accountability, and adherence to ethical standards within our legal institutions. The public deserves assurance that justice is administered fairly, without bias or undue influence."

"I am deeply disappointed by the decision made by Judge Dena Douglas in the case of Barry Wells, who was charged with the murder of his wife. Despite overwhelming evidence and a protective order in place, Judge Douglas shockingly dropped the murder charge and allowed Wells to walk free with just time served. This decision not only undermines justice but also fails to prioritize the safety of victims. It is alarming that despite the existence of a protective order, which suggests serious concerns about the victim's safety, the necessary actions to protect her were not taken by law enforcement. Such failures in the justice system only perpetuate further harm and injustice. This case highlights the urgent need for accountability and reform within our legal institutions to ensure that victims are heard, protected, and given the justice they deserve."

"What a disgrace Judge Dena Douglas is as a human let alone as a judge! She put a killer, a murderer back on our streets of NYC. What exactly does she stand for if she allows men who kill their wives to be let back out of jail after only serving 7 years?!!! She sent a message into our society and our justice system when she had the power to keep TONIE WELLS killer behind bars but chose against it. Did Tonie’s life not mean anything? I’m so saddened by this as a woman, as a mother and as a wife. That this is what our justice system believes when it comes to the value of human life. I pray Justice will be served for Tonie someday, unfortunately it was not through our Justice system. But god will have vengeance on that judge and on Barry wells as well!"

"Judge Dena Douglas needs to be removed as judge. She uses her personal bias and connections to her own personal benefit. She advocates for domestic violence awareness but releases criminals/murderers back into NYC. She puts the victims families in danger. I do not recommend this court. Tonie Wells' murderer will be released due to HER BEING FRIENDS WITH HIS MOTHER! Misconduct deserves removal. Disgusting behavior at this court. What kind of professionalism is this!?"