Malcom Tanner witness intimidation case Texas consumer protection

• Chasyte Rhea obtained a witness protection order against Malcom Tanner after alleging intimidation tactics.
• The state has accused Tanner of violating Texas consumer protection laws by promising free homes in exchange for participation.
• Rhea testified that she was followed by Tanner's associates and had her tires slashed on multiple occasions.

A former member of the Melanated People of Power, Chasyte Rhea, has obtained a witness protection order against the group's leader, Malcom Tanner. The order was granted by Texas District Court Judge Alan Nicholas after a two-hour virtual hearing. According to Assistant Attorney General Lauren McGee, Rhea fears for her well-being due to intimidation tactics employed by Tanner and his associates. This includes being followed by Vernetta Carey and Diondra Norris, who work for Tanner, and having her tires slashed on multiple occasions. The state has accused Tanner of violating Texas consumer protection laws by promising free homes to people in exchange for their participation in the group's activities.

The case against Malcom Tanner involves allegations of witness intimidation, harassment, and threats made against Chasyte Rhea. The state has presented evidence that Tanner used social media platforms such as TikTok to promise free homes to people in Loving County, Texas. This is a key aspect of the case, as it relates to consumer protection laws in Texas. The state has accused Tanner of violating these laws by engaging in deceptive business practices and making false promises to potential participants. Lawyers representing clients in similar cases should be aware that using social media to promise free homes or other benefits can be a red flag for regulatory scrutiny and potential consumer protection law violations.

The granting of the witness protection order against Malcom Tanner is a significant development in this case. It highlights the importance of protecting witnesses from intimidation and harassment, particularly when they are cooperating with law enforcement or testifying against individuals accused of serious crimes. The case also underscores the need for vigilance in upholding consumer protection laws, which are designed to prevent deceptive business practices and protect consumers from false promises and scams. As this case continues to unfold, it will be essential for lawyers representing clients in similar cases to stay informed about the latest developments and take steps to ensure compliance with relevant regulations.

Lawyers representing clients in similar cases should be aware that using social media to promise free homes or other benefits can be a red flag for regulatory scrutiny and potential consumer protection law violations.

Source: Original reporting via Courthouse News Service