Tri-State judge recuses herself, others could follow

CHATTANOOGA, TENNESSEE - The Hamilton County, Tennessee, judge assigned to hear lawsuits related to Tri-State Crematory has recused herself. Several other local judges could join her because of conflicts of interest. <br> <br> Circuit Court Judge Marie Williams excused herself from hearing civil suits against funeral homes and the operators of the north Georgia crematory where 339 corpses were discovered. Williams cited personal reasons, <br> <br> Fellow Circuit Court Judge Neil Thomas the third will replace her. <br> <br> Two other Circuit Court judges, Jackie Schulten and Sam Payne, have both previously noted their connections to the case. <br> <br> Schulten says she knew at least one person whose body was found on property in Noble, Georgia. Payne also an Episcopal priest has performed funeral services for some of those who have been reburied. <br> <br> If all local Circuit, Chancery and Criminal court judges recuse themselves, a judge from outside Hamilton County will be sought. <br> <br> Four new lawsuits were filed last week against Turner Funeral Home and the Tri-State Crematory operator Brent Marsh. Marsh also faces several lawsuits in Georgia and Alabama.

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