James E. Simon is a public servant, working both as an assistant district attorney in the 15th Judicial District and as legal counsel for the Lafayette Parish School Board, but he says that doesn't mean he has to talk, especially to the media.
James E. Simon is a public servant, working both as an assistant district attorney in the 15th Judicial District and as legal counsel for the Lafayette Parish School Board, but he says that doesn't mean he has to talk, especially to the media.
James Simon
During Wednesday's school board meeting, The IND approached Simon with a simple question: Had he spoken with District Attorney Mike Harson about a letter recently submitted to Harson's office by former state Rep. Rickey Hardy pertaining to the excessive absences of school board members Tommy Angelle, Greg Awbrey, Tehmi Chassion and Rae Trahan.
Though Wednesday evening was this reporter's first-ever encounter with Simon, here's how the school board attorney/ADA - both public institutions - responded: "I don't know how many times I have to tell you this, I don't talk to the media."
Simon turned and angrily walked away.
We have since filed a public records request with the school system since Simon also refused to share his email address.