Yellowstone County Attorney Controversy

One of the most-commented stories

I've seen on The Billings Gazette

online version, has been about our

Yellowstone County Attorney,

Dennis Paxinos. Here's the link;

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http://www.billingsgazette.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/article_711acb44-1b45-11df-8e43-001cc4c03286.html

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I have given this a lot of thought, more than I usually give to something like this.

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On one hand, he was accused, of sexual harrassment by a former employee. It was investigated by the County, and found to be without merit.

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Is that the end of the story? No. His alleged victim decided to sue, and the County refused to release details of the case until The Billings Gazette got a court order.

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Paxinos admitted having inappropriate contact with the allleged victim, seven years ago, after hours, in their office. He says it was consensual. She disagrees. And after all, he was her Boss.

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But she continued working for him. For years afterwards.

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So now what?

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Do the Yellowstone County Taxpayers deserve another lawsuit?

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Does the alleged victim deserve a day in court?

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Does this accusation diminish Paxinos' ability to be our County Attorney?

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Does the fact that he admitted being inappropriate seven years ago diminish his ability also?

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These are a lot of questions.

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First, I believe that if his alleged victim wants to take the risks, personal, and financial, of going after Paxinos in Court, it is certainly her right.

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Second, Dennis Paxinos isn't Yellowstone County's 'Father', or 'Husband', he's the County Attorney. He prosecutes criminals. Having poor judgement that particular day doesn't disqualify him from putting people behind bars.

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What's the solution?

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Let the voters decide.

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In our Republic, we elect people to represent us, for a period of time. If we don't like the job they're doing, we can put up another candidate, and let the voters decide. If you believe in America, you have to believe in the will of the people.

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So, the County Attorneys term is up Dec. 31st.

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He has filed to run for another term, and I really don't remember the last time he had an opponent. In my opinion, we need to have an election. The qualifications are that you have to be a licensed attorney, with 5 years experience, and the filing fee of $534.00. The job won't pay as much as an attorney can make in a good, private practice though, but it's a living wage for them.

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An election would clear the air. It would either vindicate Paxinos, or it would replace him.

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The deadline is March 15th, at Duane Winslows office in the courthouse.

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How about it? Any takers?