Protesters Disrupt Dolton Village Board Meeting
A fiery protest erupted at the Dolton village board meeting, causing chaos and disrupting the proceedings. The protest centered around Fenia Dukes, the mayor’s ex-assistant, who made disturbing allegations against Trustee Andrew Holmes. The tension was palpable as residents voiced their support for Dukes and demanded justice for her alleged ordeal.
Fiery Protest Unfolds
The Monday village board meeting in Dolton, the first of the new year, was marred by a heated protest that could not be ignored. Mayor Tiffany Henyard attempted to cancel the meeting, citing credible threats against elected officials, but her efforts were in vain. The focus of the protest was on Fenia Dukes, a former assistant to the mayor, who claimed she was assaulted by Trustee Andrew Holmes during a taxpayer-funded trip to Las Vegas in May 2023.
Allegations and Lawsuit
Fenia Dukes, who worked for Mayor Henyard for six months, filed a civil lawsuit against Trustee Holmes, accusing him of assault and nonconsensual dissemination of private sexual images. The lawsuit further alleged that Mayor Henyard placed Dukes on unpaid leave and ultimately terminated her to conceal the incident. Despite Dukes’ claims, the Clark County District Attorney’s Office declined to pursue criminal charges against Holmes.
Support and Solidarity
Amid the turmoil, Thornton Township resident Vivian Allen expressed unwavering support for Dukes, emphasizing the importance of fighting for justice. Dukes, visibly moved by the outpouring of solidarity, thanked the community for standing by her side during this challenging time. Despite the obstacles she faced, Dukes remained resilient and determined to seek accountability for the alleged misconduct she endured.
Expert Denials and Board Response
In response to the allegations, Trustee Holmes maintained a stance of “no comment,” while Mayor Henyard’s attorney vehemently denied all accusations leveled against her. Additionally, Mayor Pro-Tem Jason House clarified that the board had not received any evidence of credible threats against elected officials, refuting claims of imminent danger.
As the community grapples with the fallout of the protest and the disturbing allegations at hand, the Dolton village board continues to navigate a tumultuous period marked by controversy and division. The quest for truth and justice remains paramount as residents seek closure and accountability in the wake of these troubling events.
