Edwards’ and Gonzalez appeal heats up

It was a packed courtroom Monday afternoon at the Richard J. Hughes Justice Complex in Trenton as the appellate court heard arguments in the case against Trenton At-Large councilwomen Jasi Edwards; Yazminelly Gonzalez; Joshua L. Baker; City Clerk Brandon Garcia; and Mercer County Clerk Paula Sollami-Covello. Former West Ward Councilwoman turned school board candidate, Robin Vaughn, along with Mary Horne, Evangeline Ugorji, and Taiwanda Terry-Wilson filed a lawsuit against the current council women citing their ineligibility to hold office. 

The suit is calling for the removal of Gonzalez and Edwards from city council. Gonzalez is accused of not being a resident of the City of Trenton at least one year prior to the election, while Edwards is accused of having criminal convictions for shoplifting in Pennsylvania, deeming her unqualified for her seat on council due to dishonesty.

“I want to ensure that those who are eligible to run for seats in the city are eligible. Our lawyer has presented our facts, and we will see how it goes,” said Terry-Wilson when we reached out to her for a statement. 

The NJ Appellate Court Case (Docket# A-002619-22) was open to the public and a decision is expected to be made from the court in a month. Trenton Journal will keep you up to date as the case unfolds.