MT: Grow’s Rights Don’t Outweigh Duties

Nez Perce County Commission Chairman Mike Grow, pictured, showed up for work last week after he was charged with a violent felony. Like every other criminal defendant, Grow is presumed innocent — repeat, innocent — until proved guilty. But Grow’s constitutional rights as an individual do not parallel — nor do they outweigh — his obligation to serve the public interest. Valley County deputies arrested Grow April 14 at his Brammer Building office. The next day, he appeared before Magistrate Henry R. Boomer on a charge of sexually assaulting a woman April 3 inside a residence at Tamarack Resort near Donnelly. A preliminary hearing is set for May 10. Released on $15,000 bail, Grow attended the April 18 commissioners’ meeting. So far, he has declined to talk about his case, except to say he intends to remain in office/ Marty Trillhaase , Lewiston Tribune. More here.

Question: Should an elected official, like Nez Perce County Commissioner Mike Grow, continue in his job when he’s charged with sexual assault or any other violent crime?