Editorial: Landreth’s tenure marked by success

Thursday, March 29, 2001 | 9:12 a.m.

Now that there is a new party in control of the White House, political appointees, including federal prosecutors, have been submitting their resignations at the request of the Bush administration. As expected, last week Kathryn Landreth announced her resignation as U.S. attorney for Nevada. Landreth's achievements during her seven-plus years as the top federal prosecutor in the state are noteworthy.

Among her successes, Landreth worked hard to stem organized crime in the valley and cracked down on illegal telemarketers. Landreth's office also sought to uphold federal laws that aren't always on the beaten path for federal prosecutors. For instance, she fought on behalf of federal environmental protection laws in the South Canyon Road dispute in Elko County. In addition, she prosecuted hate-crime violations, obtaining a guilty plea from former Metro Police Officer Christopher Brady in the murder of Daniel Mendoza and securing guilty pleas from five white supremacists who admitted they tried to burn down a Jewish temple in Reno.

U.S. attorneys have enormous power at their disposal -- authority that has been abused before -- so it's critical they maintain a healthy respect for the rights of individuals. Landreth demonstrated an appreciation for this important tenet in our justice system. It also is encouraging that Sen. John Ensign, R-Nev., has recommended that the interim U.S. attorney be Howard Zlotnick, a seasoned prosecutor who is the first assistant in Landreth's office. Whoever is permanently tapped to head the office, it is hoped that Landreth's work is carried on.