Judge expected to rule today on Cass County Attorney’s fate

A ruling is expected today in the trial of a top western Iowa law enforcement official, just as a trial of another top official begins. A written ruling from Judge Robert Hutchinson is expected to be released this afternoon in the case against Cass County Attorney James Barry, who is accused of plea bargaining speeding tickets into non-moving violations, in exchange for charitable contributions to the Sheriff’s department. Barry admitted last week that the practice had taken place, but said he saw nothing wrong with it. Seven Atlantic residents, using a little know provision of state law, filed a civil suit seeking to remove Barry and Cass County Sheriff Larry Jones from office for misconduct, following a recent investigation by the State Auditor’s office. Jones is accused of mismanagement of the Sheriff’s drug fund, allowing his son to use a county credit card, and improper handling of evidence seized during raids or by forfeiture. His trial begins this afternoon at 1:30.