On the day before early voting began in Arizona, Obama’s Department of Justice decided to pursue charges against Sheriff Joe Arpaio, a widely known opponent of illegal immigration.
This is nothing short of stunning.
The Associated Press reports, via NBC News:
Feds to Pursue Contempt Charges Against Sheriff Joe ArpaioProsecutors said Tuesday they will charge Sheriff Joe Arpaio with criminal contempt-of-court for defying a judge’s orders to end his signature immigration patrols in Arizona, exposing the 84-year-old lawman to the possibility of jail time and clouding his political future as he seeks a seventh term.The announcement in federal court sets in motion criminal proceedings against the sheriff less than a month before Election Day and comes as he has taken on a prominent role on the national political stage in 2016, appearing alongside Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump on several occasions.Arpaio has acknowledged violating the order to stop the immigration patrols but insists his disobedience wasn’t intentional.U.S. District Judge Murray Snow previously recommended criminal contempt charges against Arpaio but left it up to federal prosecutors to actually bring the case.Prosecutor John Keller said in court that the government will bring a misdemeanor contempt charge, with the next step being a court filing, possibly in the next day, that’s akin to a criminal complaint.Arpaio could face up to six months in jail if convicted of misdemeanor contempt.
The best part of the report comes at the end…
“No one is above the law, and today’s announcement in court epitomizes the strength of the judicial system,” Democratic opponent Paul Penzone said.
No one is above the law? You could’ve fooled us.
Here’s a video report from ABC 15 News in Arizona:
Sean Davis of The Federalist noted the irony on Twitter:
The politicization of our federal government is now complete and the message being sent is loud and clear. Anyone who’s part of the leftist coalition gets a pass. Anyone who isn’t is fair game.
Featured image via YouTube.
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