Judge: No guns for Sheriff Buncich
NWI Times
Feb 8, 2017
HAMMOND — Lake County Sheriff John Buncich will have to carry on without his side arms.
U.S. District Court Magistrate Judge Paul R. Cherry denied Wednesday a request by the county's top law enforcement officer for the return of his personal firearms.
Cherry made Buncich surrender them as a condition of releasing him on bond following a federal grand jury indictment alleging the sheriff solicited and received campaign contributions from towing firms in return for business from county police.
Buncich is pleading not guilty to the fraud and bribery counts.
Bryan M. Truitt, who is defending Buncich, argued late last month that Buncich, who has served 40 years in law enforcement and has won election as sheriff four times since 1994, "needs his firearms to carry out his employment."
The U.S. attorney's office stated earlier this month the sheriff hadn't been seen using a gun before his indictment and doesn't need one now. Truitt responded last week the sheriff was carrying concealed weapons.
The judge didn't offer a reason for his decision, which could remain in place until Buncich goes to trial, which could be as early as April 10.
Truitt said Wednesday, "We obviously disagree but respect the judge's decision. We feel a sheriff needs his gun. This isn't Mayberry."
Truitt also requested Wednesday the court order the U.S. attorney's office to provide the sheriff with copies of documents the FBI seized during a raid Nov. 10 of the sheriff's office and home in Crown Point.
Truitt argues the government's refusal to turn over the papers in question, "is making it impossible for (Buncich) to timely prepare and file campaign disclosure forms, income taxes and provide helpful evidence to his attorneys."
Truitt states the government also has yet to identify all of their witnesses against Buncich or release to the defense approximately 45 video and audio discs of evidence.
The judge hasn't ruled on this defense motion.
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