MD Official's Enemies List Sought by ACLU

He's already been indicted for misconduct in office

BALTIMORE – Determined to finally shine light on the full extent of Anne Arundel County Executive John Leopold's "enemies list," the American Civil Liberties Union of Maryland today filed a Maryland Public Information Act lawsuit charging that information was improperly collected and retained on Leopold's perceived political rivals, employees, and community members and then that information was improperly withheld when requested by individuals who had reason to believe they were targeted. The lawsuit, filed against Leopold as well as the County Executive's Office and the County Police Department, asks the Circuit Court of Anne Arundel County to order that all responsive records be produced.

"The facts are clear that Anne Arundel County Executive Leopold ordered his executive detail and other county employees to try to dig up dirt on those he perceived as political rivals, as well as women who complained that he harassed or discriminated against them," said Deborah Jeon, Legal Director for the ACLU of Maryland. "Now, the time has come for Mr. Leopold and the County to come clean about how, why, and against whom these illegal activities were carried out. Full disclosure and accountability are important not just to achieve justice for the victims in this case, but also to send a strong message to other elected leaders that this illegal use of law enforcement for personal gain will not be tolerated."