Maricopa County Settles First Case Over Abuses By Joe Arpaio and Andrew Thomas

While Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio continues to spend money on such things as giving Steven Seagal a tank and army to raid homes for his reality television program, county lawyers are trying to settle one of the many lawsuits over his abuse of his office. The latest payment of tax dollars went to retired county Superior Court Judge Kenneth Fields. We previously detailed the disgraceful actions taken by former County Attorney Andrew Thomas and Arpaio against judges who did not bend to their will.

While Thomas has been investigated for his unethical and unprofessional acts as county attorney, he has yet to be disbarred. Instead he made an unsuccessful run (with Arpaio’s support) for state attorney general.

The country has paid $100,000 to settle the case from retired county Superior Court Judge Kenneth Fields. By keeping the settlement at $100,000, the county was able to circumvent certain reporting and voting requirements. There are still numerous other lawsuits asking for millions for the abuses by Arpaio and Thomas. No wonder the state is having to charge people to see their loved ones in jail. Between casting reality shows and paying off victims of Arpaio, the county is likely to need every dime it can get.

Source: AZCentral