Apache County Officials Face RICO Charges in Harassment Case Against Reverend Joseph Lathus
In a remarkable legal battle unfolding in Apache County, Arizona, Reverend Joseph Lathus has brought serious charges against county officials, alleging a coordinated campaign of harassment and extortion designed to deprive him of his constitutional rights and undermine his significant efforts in community development. This case, drawing parallels to Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) violations, involves key figures such as County Commissioner Carey Dobson and County Attorney Michael Whiting.
### Background: Reverend Joseph Lathus's Efforts
Reverend Joseph Lathus, a resident and director of a nonprofit organization in the Concholakeland Unit 6 subdivision, has dedicated six years to improving the infrastructure of his community. His work focused on upgrading private roads, enhancing property values, and creating a safer environment for residents. Despite his positive contributions, Lathus claims he has faced relentless opposition and illegal actions from local officials.
Allegations of Harassment and Extortion
In his lawsuit filed in the United States District Court for the District of Arizona, Reverend Lathus outlines numerous instances of alleged harassment, entrapment, and legal missteps orchestrated by county officials:
1. Mischaracterization of Private Roads:
- Lathus legally recorded Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs) establishing the roads as private. Despite this, the Sheriff’s Office issued a citation for obstructing a public thoroughfare, ignoring the legal status of these roads. This citation came after the influence and directives of Commissioner Dobson and his associates.
2. Entrapment and Abuse of Power:
- Officials allegedly induced Lathus to erect fences and gates by allowing his property to be damaged by cattle, actions that were later criminalized. This entrapment showcases a pattern of abuse and manipulation aimed at creating legal challenges for Lathus.
3. Malicious Prosecution:
- Arbitrary citations and coordinated efforts among county officials to fabricate charges against Lathus suggest a deliberate attempt to harass and penalize him unjustly. This malicious prosecution demonstrates a significant misuse of legal authority.
4. Improper Legal Advice:
- Sheriff’s Office representatives advised Lathus to record the CC&Rs, which was outside their legal purview. The subsequent disregard of these CC&Rs by the same office further complicates the legal landscape, highlighting a possible conspiracy to entrap Lathus.
The RICO Framework
Reverend Lathus's lawsuit invokes the RICO Act, suggesting that the coordinated actions of Dobson, Whiting, and other officials amount to a pattern of racketeering activity. The RICO Act, established to combat organized crime, allows for the prosecution of individuals involved in ongoing criminal enterprises.
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Key Elements in This Case:
- Enterprise: The Apache County government, including the Board of Supervisors and the Sheriff’s Office, c
Is considered an enterprise if proven to be working together in an organized manner.
- Pattern of Racketeering Activity: Multiple instances of illegal actions, such as harassment, intimidation, and fraudulent practices, constitute a pattern.
- Racketeering Acts: Specific illegal acts, including extortion and fraud, are central to the charges.
### Federal Statutes Cited
The lawsuit references several federal statutes, including:
- **42 U.S.C. § 1983**: Deprivation of rights under the color of law.
- **42 U.S.C. § 1985(3)**: Conspiracy to interfere with civil rights.
- **18 U.S.C. § 241**: Conspiracy against rights.
### Implications and Next Steps
The allegations against Apache County officials paint a disturbing picture of potential misuse of power and coordinated harassment. Reverend Lathus's case not only seeks justice for himself but also aims to highlight broader issues of accountability and governance in local government.
If successful, this lawsuit could set a significant precedent for holding public officials accountable under RICO statutes for actions that undermine constitutional rights and personal property. The case is set to proceed with extensive legal scrutiny, and the outcomes could have far-reaching implications for the involved officials and the community at large.
### Conclusion
Reverend Joseph Lathus's battle against alleged corruption in Apache County represents a critical juncture in the fight for justice and transparency in local government. As the case unfolds, it underscores the importance of protecting individual rights against coordinated and unlawful actions by those in power. The invocation of RICO charges highlights the severity and complexity of the allegations, promising a closely watched legal confrontation with potential nationwide implications.
https://www.google.com/amp/s/dockets.justia.com/docket/arizona/azdce/3:2024cv08093/1377637%3famp
