Source: Fox News
Summary
American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and Prison Law Office (PLO) were contacted by Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes’ chief deputy, Daniel Barr, for legal recruitment help. Barr, who previously worked with both groups, sought candidates for Arizona Department of Corrections roles. The groups advocate for reducing incarceration and police funding, while Mayes supports law enforcement. Emails show Barr repeatedly asked for recommendations, and the PLO and ACLU responded. Mayes’ campaign denied any conflict, highlighting her support for police funding.
Our Reading
As expected, the matter has reached another stage.
Barr asked the ACLU and PLO for help hiring lawyers.
Both groups have sued Arizona’s prisons before.
They promised to find candidates for the job.
Mayes’ office hired someone with left-leaning views.
Author: Evan Null
Arizona Attorney General’s Office and Left-Wing Groups
The Arizona Attorney General’s Office, led by Kris Mayes, has been involved in a series of interactions with left-wing legal groups, including the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and the Prison Law Office (PLO). These groups have a history of opposing Arizona’s prison conditions and advocating for criminal justice reform. Mayes’ chief deputy, Daniel Barr, sought their help in recruiting attorneys for the Arizona Department of Corrections, Rehabilitation and Reentry (ADCRR). The emails show that Barr reached out to the groups multiple times, asking for recommendations for legal roles within the AG’s office.
History of Legal Disputes
Barr had a prior history of working with the ACLU and PLO in legal cases, including a federal case that found Arizona’s prison conditions to be constitutionally inadequate. The ACLU has long advocated for reducing incarceration rates and cutting jail populations by 50%, while the PLO focuses on improving prison conditions and reducing the number of people in custody. These positions contrast with Mayes’ public stance on law enforcement and criminal justice, which emphasizes support for police and border security.
Recruitment Efforts and Responses
During 2023, Barr repeatedly reached out to the ACLU and PLO for help filling legal roles within the ADCRR. He asked for recommendations for attorneys and later for the position of ADCRR general counsel. The groups responded, with one suggesting a candidate who had experience suing the ADCRR. Despite these efforts, the ADCRR eventually hired Ashley Oddo, who had no direct ties to the ACLU or PLO. Oddo had previously supported criminal justice reforms, including addressing systemic racism in policing and pardoning nonviolent drug offenders.
Contrasting Views on Policing and Incarceration
The ACLU and PLO have taken strong stances against police funding and incarceration, advocating for defunding police departments and reducing prison populations. The ACLU has published articles and campaigns promoting the idea that defunding police can lead to safer communities. The PLO has also supported reducing incarceration through litigation and community-based alternatives. These positions are in direct contrast to Mayes’ public support for law enforcement and her campaign’s emphasis on fighting drug cartels and protecting public safety.
Public Statements and Campaign Responses
Mayes’ campaign has denied any conflict of interest, highlighting her support for police funding and her efforts to combat drug trafficking. The campaign manager, Delaney Corcoran, emphasized that Mayes has consistently supported law enforcement and has taken action against drug cartels. Despite this, the emails obtained by Fox News show that Barr, one of Mayes’ top deputies, repeatedly sought help from groups that have historically opposed Arizona’s prison system and policing practices. The campaign has not directly addressed the implications of these interactions.
