Nelson County Sheriff and Chief Deputy Indicted Amid Abuse of Public Trust
LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WAVE) – Nelson County is grappling with a significant legal scandal as Sheriff Ramon Pineiroa and Chief Deputy Brandon Bryan were indicted on multiple criminal charges, including abuse of public trust, theft by deception, forgery, and official misconduct. These charges arise from allegations that Bryan sold seized vehicles to a friend, circumventing mandated public auctions.
Attorney Thomas Clay, representing whistleblower deputies Ian Justice and Will Purdom, asserts that Sheriff Pineiroa endorsed these unlawful sales. Kentucky law requires that forfeited property must undergo public auction, allowing community members the chance to bid. “It has to be a public auction,” Clay emphasized.
Tensions escalated when Justice and Purdom reportedly faced retaliation for their objections to these transactions. A scheduled meeting with Pineiroa was abruptly called off when the deputies arrived with legal representation, according to Clay. He alleges that the sheriff reacted angrily, locking the door and expressing hostility towards the deputies.
Following Justice’s disclosures to a Kentucky State Police detective, an investigation began, culminating in the recent indictments. “We didn’t anticipate the indictment would be returned this quickly,” Clay remarked, reflecting on the ongoing probe.
The community’s response has been one of dismay, with some residents expressing disappointment over the alleged misconduct. “Taking money from the community is not good,” lamented resident Samuel Johnson.
To ensure impartiality, Honorable Elise Spainhour has been appointed as the special judge, with Commonwealth’s Attorney Amanda Troutman serving as the special prosecutor, both reflecting a commitment to thorough and aggressive prosecution. As the legal proceedings unfold, Clay seeks vindication for his clients. Efforts to reach Sheriff Pineiroa and Chief Deputy Bryan for comments were unsuccessful.
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