D.A. Collin Sims Appointed to Examine Indictment of A.G. Murrill

Press Release from District Attorney Collin Sims 

The integrity of our criminal justice system depends upon the public having faith and confidence in the grand jury process. Grand juries perform a vital function, and their work must be conducted with independence, fairness, and fidelity to the law.

The Louisiana Supreme Court has appointed me to examine the circumstances surrounding the decision to pursue the indictment of Attorney General Liz Murrill, including whether the process was proper and whether any criminal or ethical violations occurred in the pursuit of that indictment.

The grand jury is a powerful tool in our system of justice that can investigate and, where appropriate, return an indictment. Protecting public confidence in that institution means ensuring both that its independence is respected and that legitimate concerns about the integrity of the process are examined carefully. An important part of this review is to determine, based on the facts and the law, whether the grand jury was properly used and to confirm or dispel any concerns that it may have been misused.

I intend to follow the facts and the law wherever they lead, without prejudgment or outside influence. At the conclusion of this work, any findings or actions that may properly be made public will be addressed consistent with the law and obligations of this appointment.

Click here for a wdsu.com article that provides background.