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Thursday, March 10, 2005
Ind. Courts - Washington County prosecutors face hearing
"Washington prosecutors face hearing: Two allegedly took defendant's notes" is the headline to a story today in the Louisville Courier Journal. Some quotes:
A hearing starts today on accusations of misconduct against Washington County Prosecutor Cynthia Winkler and her top deputy, Blaine Goode.For background, see this Sept. 9, 2004 ILB entry.A complaint filed by the Indiana Supreme Court Disciplinary Commission accuses them of stealing notes written by a criminal defendant, then trying to cover it up.
The hearing officer's findings will go to the Indiana Supreme Court. If the accusations are upheld, Winkler and Goode could face sanctions ranging from a private reprimand to suspension or revocation of their licenses to practice law.
The disciplinary commission filed its complaint after a complaint from Lewis Steward, the man whose notes were taken.
Winkler and Goode, in court documents, admit taking the notes but deny trying to cover it up.
The complaint says their actions violated two Indiana Rules of Professional Conduct for attorneys, by violating the rights of Steward and by engaging in conduct prejudicial to the administration of justice.
The cover-up charges "add a different quality" to the case, said Donald Lundberg, the executive secretary of the disciplinary commission who signed the complaint. The alleged cover-up adds "a greater gravity to the case."
Posted by Marcia Oddi on March 10, 2005 07:53 AM
Posted to Indiana Courts