The issue focused on whether public comment would be permitted in court and was held by Justice Court Judge Tom Lawless, who made the decision.

Tull's lawyer told court that law enforcement officials were aware of Tull's relationship with criminal justice officers and believed he had become an illegal alien. Tull has been charged with felonies after having previously used city police to obtain legal status.

Omili said his client is also being sued for civil rights violations in federal court. He said O'