COJ #166 - Stand Your Ground (But Only If We Like You): When the Attorney General Picks and Chooses
Tue Feb 03 2026
Today we need to address alarming developments in press freedom as independent journalists, including Don Lemon, face federal charges for violating the FACE Act of 1994.
Then Liz reintroduces a case we covered on True Sunlight #134 involving Anijah Yarnell, who claimed self-defense after shooting Michael Pennington in 2020. However, South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson unusually appealed the decision—contrasting sharply with Wilson's public opposition to charge others like Weldon Boyd and Bradley Williams.
Then we’re sharing an excerpt from Liz and Mandy’s recent appearance on Laura Richard’s Crime Analyst Podcast (Episode 303). Richards, Matney, and Farrell emphasize the critical role of independent journalism and sustained public pressure in preventing cases from being swept away.
☕ Cups Up! ⚖️
Episode References
Crime Analyst Ep 303 On YouTube
Crime Analyst Ep. 303 Audio: Mica Francis: Analyzing the Federal Charges Against John Paul Miller with Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell
“Journalist Don Lemon charged with federal civil rights crimes after covering anti-ICE church protest” - AP News, Updated Jan 30, 2026 📰
“Horry County murder case ruled Stand Your Ground being appealed. What we know” - Myrtle Beach Sun News, Jan 13, 2026 📰
“Man charged in shooting outside Columbia Planned Parenthood files ‘stand your ground’ defense” - WIS10, Jan 29, 2026 📰
Stay Tuned, Stay Pesky and Stay in the Sunlight...☀️
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*The views expressed on the Cup of Justice episodes do not constitute legal advice. Listeners desiring legal advice for any particular legal matter are urged to consult an attorney of their choosing who can provide legal advice based upon a full understanding of the facts and circumstances of their claim. The views expressed on the Cup of Justice episodes also do not express the views or opinions of Bland Richter, LLP, or its attorneys.
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Today we need to address alarming developments in press freedom as independent journalists, including Don Lemon, face federal charges for violating the FACE Act of 1994. Then Liz reintroduces a case we covered on True Sunlight #134 involving Anijah Yarnell, who claimed self-defense after shooting Michael Pennington in 2020. However, South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson unusually appealed the decision—contrasting sharply with Wilson's public opposition to charge others like Weldon Boyd and Bradley Williams. Then we’re sharing an excerpt from Liz and Mandy’s recent appearance on Laura Richard’s Crime Analyst Podcast (Episode 303). Richards, Matney, and Farrell emphasize the critical role of independent journalism and sustained public pressure in preventing cases from being swept away. ☕ Cups Up! ⚖️ Episode References Crime Analyst Ep 303 On YouTube Crime Analyst Ep. 303 Audio: Mica Francis: Analyzing the Federal Charges Against John Paul Miller with Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell “Journalist Don Lemon charged with federal civil rights crimes after covering anti-ICE church protest” - AP News, Updated Jan 30, 2026 📰 “Horry County murder case ruled Stand Your Ground being appealed. What we know” - Myrtle Beach Sun News, Jan 13, 2026 📰 “Man charged in shooting outside Columbia Planned Parenthood files ‘stand your ground’ defense” - WIS10, Jan 29, 2026 📰 Stay Tuned, Stay Pesky and Stay in the Sunlight...☀️ Premium Members also get access to all new bonus episodes, video episodes, case files, live trial coverage and exclusive live experiences with our hosts. CLICK HERE to learn more and join with Promo Code "COJ25" for your first month free! https://bit.ly/3BdUtOE. Luna Shark Merch With a Mission shop at lunasharkmerch.com/ Support Our Show, Sponsors and Mission: https://lunasharkmedia.com/support/ Quince - Hungry Root - Bombas Amazon Shop: https://amzn.to/4cJ0eVn Find us on social media: https://www.facebook.com/cupofjustice/ | https://www.instagram.com/cojpod/ Mandy Matney on Instagram | Liz Farrell on Instagram | Eric Bland on Instagram YouTube | TIKTOK *** Alert: If you ever notice audio errors in the pod, email info@lunasharkmedia.com and we'll send fun merch to the first listener that finds something that needs to be adjusted! *** *The views expressed on the Cup of Justice episodes do not constitute legal advice. Listeners desiring legal advice for any particular legal matter are urged to consult an attorney of their choosing who can provide legal advice based upon a full understanding of the facts and circumstances of their claim. The views expressed on the Cup of Justice episodes also do not express the views or opinions of Bland Richter, LLP, or its attorneys. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices