Media inquiries should be directed to:
David R. Irvine
Attorney for the petitioners
cell.801.949.6693 / ph.801.579.0802 / drirvine@aol.com
Alan L. Smith
Attorney for the petitioners
801.262.0555 / alanakaed@aol.com
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Media Advisory – Election Law Violation Petition filed with Lt. Governor’s office for investigation of AG John Swallow on Thursday, March 7
Who: David R. Irvine, Attorney
Alan L. Smith, Attorney
Crystal Young-Otterstrom, Petitioner
What: Petitioner Crystal Young-Otterstrom and her attorneys will file an election law violation petition at the Lt. Governor’s office that requests an investigation into John Swallow’s election activities and seeks statutory remedies for any violations found. The petitioners are seeking a civil remedy that, by statute, should proceed on a parallel track with any criminal proceedings currently being conducted.
According to state law, Utah election code violations are to be filed with, and initially investigated by, the Lt. Governor’s office. The petition lists 12 counts of potential election code violations, including failure to disclose certain financial information, using public funds for political purposes, and using campaign contributions for personal use.
Filing false disclosure statements is a violation of election code, and the legislature has provided a citizen administrative remedy for those violations. The process begins with a complaint to be filed with the Lt. Governor. After the Lt. Governor determines whether or not the complaint has substance, it is directed to the Attorney General’s office for investigation and prosecution in District Court. Under state law, if the District Court finds that a candidate has violated relevant election law, the statutory remedy is removal from office.
When: Thursday, March 7, 1:00 p.m.
Where: Lt. Governor’s Office, Utah State Capitol, Suite 220
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Alliance for a Better Utah | 801.557.1532 | www.betterutah.org
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The Alliance for a Better UTAH is a year-round, multi-issue education and advocacy organization providing resources, commentary, and action on important public policy matters.
