Attorney General parries criticism of ties to Scruggs
Hood said in a statement, “The federal government is handling these cases. The district attorneys of the state of Mississippi are, in essence, independent prosecutors, and my office has made available to them every resource we possess should they decide to pursue state charges.
“But given the Republican Party’s sudden pronouncement in this matter, the question must be asked: Has this entire sad and disappointing chapter in Mississippi history dissolved into ruinous partisan politics? For the sake of our citizens, I hope not.”
Although Mississippi law has no mechanism for appointing an independent counsel, Jim Herring, chairman of the Mississippi Republican Party, believes such a law should be adopted.
Clarion Ledger
3/18/8