Preliminary investigation into Jefferson County officials under way

The Idaho Attorney General’s Office has launched a preliminary investigation into Jefferson County Prosecutor Robin Dunn and the Jefferson County Board of Commissioners.

A law passed by the 2014 Idaho Legislature gives the attorney general new authority to investigate public corruption involving elected county officials, said Todd Dvorak, spokesman for the attorney general’s office. The law took effect July 1.

Deputy Attorney General Paul R. Panther is investigating allegations by Jefferson County resident and activist Bruce Baxter.

According to an October letter from Panther to Baxter, which Local News 8 obtained Friday, Baxter alleged Dunn and the commissioners used or approved county funds to be used for “private purposes.”

After the preliminary investigation, the attorney general can make a decision on whether additional action is necessary.

Some Jefferson County residents launched a recall effort against Dunn in September.