The recent change in the forensic ruling in the death of Lester Isbill—from natural causes to homicide has drawn renewed attention to how criminal cases are evaluated and prosecuted. In that context, public statements by a husband-and-wife social media team claiming they have current District Attorney, Steve Hatchett, “on speed-dial” have raised additional questions.
There is no allegation that these claims are accurate or that any improper conduct has occurred. However, when individuals publicly brag/assert personal access to a sitting prosecutor while one being the subject of a felony criminal complaint as recently as 2013, a time when current DA Hatchett was the 'Chief Deputy DA' during the scandal filled tenure of former DA Steve Bebb--it can prompt broader concerns about the role that perceived influence may play in criminal prosecutions...Did the current DA drop the prosecution in 2013, essentially giving a them 'slap in the hand' and they are now showing how eternally (grateful and connected) they are to the DA?
Maintaining public confidence in the justice system requires not only fair outcomes, but assurance that prosecutorial decisions are insulated from real or perceived external pressure.
Given the heightened public interest following the revised forensic ruling, these statements may warrant closer examination to assess their accuracy and any implications for public confidence in the justice system.
