Wednesday's opinion in Davidson v. State, by Texas Court of Appeals (Tyler) Chief Justice James Worthen joined by Justice Brian Hoyle, upholds the stalking conviction of animal rights activist Davidson for actions targeting Hicks.
Hicks owned dogs, and was also a "county extension agent [for Texas A&M]," whose job "entails advocating for agriculture, and his job duties include engaging with the public and encouraging members of the public regarding best agricultural practices, such as caring for animals. Davidson thought Hicks' dogs lacked adequate shelter in a severe winter storm, so she complained to the local police department. The department checked on the dogs several times, concluded that all was well, concluded Hicks wasn't violating the law, and "informed Appellant that Hicks was providing the dogs with adequate shelter."
But Davidson was apparently unsatisfied. She posted items on Facebook and sent private messages "comments, and private messages." She also apparently "drove past Hicks's residence and took photographs," as did other people. The police got 20 calls about Hicks, most apparently not from Davidson. "Hicks reported receiving an anonymous package in the mail that 'was a glitter bomb, like a prank package[ ]' that contained penis-shaped confetti and a card that said, 'you have a small penis.'" "Hicks told Smith [the Chief of Police of Crockett, the town where Hicks apparently lived -EV] that 'people were trying to contact his employer trying to get him fired.'"
