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November 15, 2009

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Civil Service Commission delays reconsideration of officers’ firing

Friday, March 26, 1999 | 9:42 a.m.

The city wants to fire officers Lynn Drake and Mark Markiewicz, who have been on restricted duty for about two years when an amendment to the federal Brady Bill took effect. That law makes it illegal for anyone convicted of domestic violence charges to carry a firearm.

City Attorney Patricia Lynch on Thursday argued the commission lacks authority to reject the layoffs. And she said the city would go to court to force the layoffs if the commission didn't reverse its stance.

Commissioners have said the law has been declared unconstitutional by a federal court in Washington, D.C.

But Nevada U.S. Attorney Kathryn Landreth believes otherwise.

"I must tell you that I don't believe the law is unconstitutional," she told commissioners. "We do not believe the D.C. Court of Appeals is binding ... We are actively pursuing cases on this law."

Landreth was invited by city officials to make a presentation to the commission.

Commissioners unanimously agreed to put off any decision until a special meeting May 6.

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