The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has upheld U.S. District Judge Gloria Navarro’s decision to dismiss charges against Cliven Bundy, confirming Judge Navarro’s conclusion that the federal government improperly withheld evidence that could have aided Mr. Bundy’s defense. Judge Navarro labeled the prosecution’s behavior flagrant misconduct.
Today, the Las Vegas Review Journal opinion page included this indictment of the lead prosecutor in the travesty:
“Steven Myhre, the prosecutor in charge of the case and acting head of the Nevada U.S. attorney’s office at the time, appeared more interested in pursuing a vindictive political prosecution against Mr. Bundy and his allies than in operating within the bounds of judicial protocol. Mr. Bundy’s fight — and the support he received in some quarters — was an embarrassment to federal agencies.”
The paper labeled the ruling “another judicial beat down” for the Government.
Fortunately for the public, Myhre is no longer running the office. The new U.S. Attorney, Nicholas Trutanich seems to be several cuts above his predecessor.
