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County‑attorney investigators bill divides sheriffs, prosecutors and police over oversight and accountability
Summary
HB 1001 would let county attorneys appoint investigators with law‑enforcement authority (if certified or eligible). Proponents, including several county attorneys, said it bridges evidence gaps and augments small departments; sheriffs and police groups warned it risks conflicts, inconsistent oversight and liability. The bill drew wide testimony but no committee vote at this session.
Representative Bob Lynn introduced HB 1001 to authorize county attorneys, with county‑commissioner approval and available appropriations, to appoint investigators who possess or are eligible for police certification and statewide law‑enforcement authority. Proponents argued the change would let county attorneys retain investigators capable of closing evidentiary gaps and supporting prosecutions—particularly in smaller municipalities that lack experienced detectives.
Paul Halverson (Merrimack County Attorney) and other county…
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