by Jim Crews, Stevensville
During the recent recall effort of Mayor Dewey regarding his unauthorized signing of contracts, a formal complaint was filed against the Mayor with the Commissioner of Political Practices for various reasons.
The Commissioner of Political Practices examined Mayor Dewey’s actions and apparently issued a “sufficient evidence” Finding and Decision justifying a civil fine or civil prosecution of Brandon Dewey. (Reference Page 12 and 13 of Crews v. Dewey COPP 2020-CFP-008)
“Because of the nature of the violation, this matter is referred to the County Attorney of Lewis and Clark County for his consideration as to prosecution.”
At this point, it is my understanding that should the County Attorney waive the right to prosecute, the Matter returns to the Commissioner of Political Practices.
Further action is apparently pending as this case has not been closed.
The document may be found on the MT Commissioner of Political Practices Web site, under
https://politicalpractices.mt.gov/Home/Decisions-and-Advisory-Opinions/Campaign-Finance-Decisions
Look at the 2020 decisions.