Could Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio finally face justice? The Justice Department is moving ahead with criminal contempt charges against the racist Arizona sheriff over his racial profiling. Now:
Arpaio has not yet officially been charged. U.S. District Judge Susan Bolton asked the federal government to write an order to show cause, by Wednesday, for her to sign. That will serve as a charging document for the case to go forward against Arpaio only. [...]
DOJ attorney John Keller said the government will continue to investigate additional allegations of Arpaio and three aides for concealing evidence — and therefore obstruction of justice — but will not proceed with the prosecution at this time, because they believe the statute of limitations has run out.
Bolton is not sure, and asked for a pause on the statute-of-limitations clock for all sides to discuss that issue.
Arpaio faces a strong challenge this Election Day from former Phoenix police sergeant Paul Penzone, and while federal charges brought by the Obama administration may rally Arpaio’s base, it’s unlikely to help beyond that.
Help send Sheriff Joe packing by giving $3 to Paul Penzone.
Sheriff Joe Arpaio has abused, profiled and dehumanized communities of color in Arizona for 23 years. If you live in Arizona, click here to make phone calls to kick him out of office.