Jefferson prosecuting attorney retires after 34 years
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RIGBY — Jefferson County prosecuting attorney Robin Dunn is stepping down after 34 years of service.
Dunn said he’s accomplished all that he’s wanted to, and now it’s time for someone new with fresh ideas.
“I’ve served long enough. I’ve got 34 years in. I could have retired several years ago. This just felt like the logical break,” Dunn said.
Dunn had been on the receiving end of controversy during his time in office in 2014 and 2015 over various issues, including concerns his law firm was charging the county for his services. He was placed under investigation by the attorney general’s office, which didn’t find him at fault for anything. He was also subject to an unsuccessful recall election.
He said the allegations fueled his motivation for staying in office the last two years, and that he wanted to retire knowing his name was intact.
“That’s probably why I continued … to prove that there was no legitimate reason for people to attempt what they did, that their allegations were unfounded,” Dunn said.
Dunn said he will continue to practice law beyond his retirement from this position, but does not plan to return to county law.
The position for Jefferson County prosecuting attorney has moved from part-time hours to full time. The elected candidate will start full time effective January 2017, said Dunn.
The commissioners made this decision based upon statistical information and the growth of Jefferson County. Dunn said he’s advocated for full time funding for years and said the county is comparable to similar sized counties with full-time prosecutors.
The candidates
Three candidates are in the running to be the next prosecuting attorney: Ashley Graham, Steven Dalling and Paul Butikofer.
Ashley Graham
Graham is a Rigby native and has worked as a deputy prosecuting attorney in Bannock County for the last five and a half years.
During her time in Bannock County, she served on the Veteran’s Treatment Court and Domestic Violence Treatment Court. She has also provided training to law enforcement all over southeastern Idaho.
Graham said she’s excited to bring the spirit of service to the office.
“I am excited to bring honesty, integrity, trustworthiness, respect and accountability to the Jefferson County Prosecutor’s Office,” Graham said.
Steven Dalling
Dalling was born and raised in southeast Idaho.
Dalling has a private civil practice and works as a county deputy prosecutor dealing with felonies and juvenile matters.
His experience includes a clerkship for District Court Judge Gregory Moeller, as well as internships for the Bonneville County prosecutor’s office, District Court Judge Brent Moss and Congressman Mike Simpson.
Dalling said he’s already been serving the county for two years and would like to continue his service as the Jefferson County prosecutor.
“There needs to be a smooth transition away from the prior prosecutor without compromising all the pending cases,” Dalling said. “I can do that while also making the necessary changes to restore public confidence in the office.”
Paul Butikofer
Butikofer is a Rigby local and has been an attorney for 20 years. He has experience in public defense, criminal prosecution and civil matters.
A release from Butikofer reports this is the second time Butikofer is in the running for this position. Twelve years ago he ran for prosecuting attorney but had to withdraw his name from candidacy when he was called into active military duty.
“My level of experience is something I believe sets me apart from other candidates who may come forward. I have the depth of legal knowledge needed to run an efficient office that properly represents the residents and protects our communities,” Butikofer said.