Opinion ID: 1124360
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 11

Heading: Motion to disqualify the entire district attorney's office

Text: Rippo argues that the district court erred in failing to disqualify the entire prosecutor's office in light of Lukens and Lowry's misconduct preceding their disqualification and in light of Lukens' continued interest in the case after his disqualification. Rippo contends that although Lukens was disqualified, he was present in court for the opening statements, followed the order of the witnesses, and spoke with witness Diana Hunt during trial. We conclude that Rippo failed to make a showing of extreme circumstances warranting disqualification of the entire district attorney's office. See Collier v. Legakes, 98 Nev. 307, 309, 646 P.2d 1219, 1220 (1982) (disqualification of a prosecutor's office is warranted only in extreme circumstances). First, the fact that Lukens was present for opening statements and followed the order of the witnesses may show a continued interest in the trial, but it is not evidence of continued involvement. Second, although Lukens acknowledged that he had occasion to have discussions with [Hunt] this week, no evidence exists as to the content or nature of the conversations. Third, the judge admonished Lukens not to speak further with any witnesses, and no evidence has been presented that Lukens failed to abide by this order. The district court's disqualification of Lukens and Lowry was sufficient to ensure that Rippo received a fair trial. Thus, we conclude that the district court did not abuse its discretion in failing to disqualify the prosecutor's office.