Investigators seek contempt hearing in CRCT case
A judge is scheduled to hear arguments Friday on whether to quash a subpoena filed in the Atlanta schools test-tampering investigation or hold a para-professional in contempt for refusing to comply.
Cynthia Harris, who works at White Elementary School, was subpoenaed last week to appear Friday morning before the governor's special investigators and be interviewed about the Criterion-Referenced Competency Tests. But her lawyer, Charles Thornton, filed a motion Thursday seeking to have the subpoena thrown out.
The governor's investigators promptly filed their own motion, which asks a judge to order Harris to show cause why she should not be held in contempt.
"Ms. Harris has refused to comply," said Atlanta lawyer Geremy Gregory, who works with the special investigators. "We're concerned about that, and that's why we filed the motion. "
Thornton did not return phone calls or e-mails seeking comment.
Fulton Superior Court Judge Craig Schwall will hear arguments.
Special investigators Mike Bowers, Bob Wilson and Richard Hyde were appointed to determine whether APS officials illicitly boosted scores on standardized tests. They also are working with Fulton District Attorney Paul Howard, who has said he may consider criminal charges if the evidence warrants.
Thornton's motion called the subpoena against Harris "unreasonable and oppressive" and said it violates her constitutional right against self-incrimination. It also said Harris "had no responsibilities for administering, checking or grading the tests which are the subject of this investigation."
About the Author
Bill Rankin has been an AJC reporter for more than 30 years. His father, Jim Rankin, worked as an editor for the newspaper for 26 years, retiring in 1986. Bill has primarily covered the state’s court system, doing all he can do to keep the scales of justice on an even keel. Since 2015, he has been the host of the newspaper’s Breakdown podcast.
