Charges Dismissed Against Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill

A special prosecutor has dismissed the felony criminal charges against Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill. She was previously indicted over allegations of threatening New Orleans officials.

Background on the Case

The charges against Murrill emerged from a Republican-led court overhaul in New Orleans, a predominantly Democratic city. The indictment process faced immediate challenges when the Louisiana Supreme Court criticized the local court for procedural missteps.

Involvement of Local Authorities

The dismissal was influenced by a letter from prominent New Orleans figures, including District Attorney Jason Williams, Mayor Helena Moreno, and City Council members, urging the special prosecutor Laurie White to drop the case. White acknowledged this correspondence as part of her legal duties before dismissing the charges.

“What I did was not a crime, it was never a crime,” Murrill stated, labeling the prosecution as malicious.

Political Tensions

The situation highlights ongoing friction between Louisiana’s Republican leadership and Democratic officials. Republican Governor Jeff Landry supported Murrill, assuring her reputation would remain intact and calling for investigations into the indictment’s circumstances.

Accusations and Legal Responses

In May, Murrill was accused by Mayor Moreno and others of making threats against officials. The 16-count indictment by a grand jury charged Murrill with intimidation and malfeasance.

Political tensions peaked over a legislative change abolishing a court clerk’s office held by an exoneree, Calvin Duncan. Murrill warned local officials of potential dismissal under state laws prohibiting support for unauthorized officeholders.

I didn’t write that law. The Legislature wrote that law. I just explained it to them. Murrill maintained her stance, asserting the legal advisement was not criminal.

Concluding Remarks

Despite the use of strong language in communications, New Orleans officials stated they were not truly intimidated and continued their roles without concern. The dismissal of charges marks a significant moment amid persistent political conflict in Louisiana.

Jack Brook of the Associated Press contributed to this report.