Louisiana Supreme Court Halts Case Against Attorney General Liz Murrill

The Louisiana Supreme Court has temporarily stopped the criminal proceedings against Attorney General Liz Murrill. The decision came shortly after her indictment on accusations of threatening New Orleans officials with employment termination.

The state’s highest court cited procedural errors by the local court and a special prosecutor. Reports also highlighted that a journalist was prevented from covering the grand jury’s actions.

The stay from the Supreme Court provides a temporary halt. Murrill, a Republican, plans to request a dismissal of the case. Tensions are evident between Republican state leaders and Democrats controlling the state’s largest city. Murrill described the situation as a “political witch hunt.”

Indictment Flaws

The New Orleans grand jury presented a 16-count indictment against Murrill. The charges included intimidation and malfeasance, with the court finding substantial irregularities.

“This indictment appears to turn the law on its head and flows from what appear to be extraordinary procedural defects and improprieties,” stated Justice Jay McCallum.

The conflict involved Laurie White, the special prosecutor. She faces a sexual harassment lawsuit being defended by Murrill’s office, posing a potential conflict of interest.

The intimidation charge required proof of “unlawful” threats, or those suggesting bodily harm or death. The court noted Murrill is likely to succeed in dismissing the case, emphasizing that proceeding would cause her irreparable harm.

The court’s decision was backed by four Republican justices and one Democrat, while one Democrat and an independent dissented. Justice John Guidry opposed the quick decision, noting concerns about due process and equal protection.

Controversial Court Changes

This case stems from significant political disputes in Louisiana. The state recently abolished the New Orleans criminal court clerk position, merging it with another role. This move occurred after Calvin Duncan, whose murder conviction was vacated, was elected to the criminal clerk office.

Despite Duncan’s inclusion in the National Registry of Exonerations, Murrill and other GOP officials have not recognized his innocence. The court mentioned that Duncan was previously represented by White, marking another conflict of interest.

Murrill cautioned New Orleans council members against supporting an unauthorized officeholder. She argued her actions were part of her duties.

Following the indictment, Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry, also a Republican, expressed his intention to pardon Murrill. The governor has called for an investigation into the grand jury’s actions, condemning the indictment as a “political witch hunt.”