After she realized some Lee County Sherrif's Office deputies were likely working outside their jurisdiction, Lee County District Attorney Jessica Ventiere said she had to address the issue carefully and methodically.
First, she had to gain a complete understanding of what was happening. Then, case by case, she had to go through arrests made outside of Lee County and in neighboring Russell County and dismiss cases.
Three deputies resigned and another was demoted after Ventiere brought the issue to the attention of the sheriff, the court and defense attorneys. However, now that her office had done its work, she had to pass the investigation on to higher powers.
"My inquiry into the issue is complete," Ventiere said. "Because of my extensive involvement in reviewing the impacted cases and ultimately reporting my findings to the Sheriff, court, and defense attorneys, I believe I would have a conflict of interest in taking any further action."
While Sheriff Jay Jones told 1819 News that no charges were pending, Ventiere told 1819 News that the Attorney General's Office was made aware of the case.
1819 News attempted to reach Attorney General Steve Marshall's Office for comment.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email erica.thomas@1819news.com.
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