Candidate hit with state’s largest fine for violations

Monday, June 29, 2009 | 4:52 p.m.

Archive of Sun politics stories

CARSON CITY – A judge has issued a $54,303 judgment against a political candidate who failed to file campaign contribution and expenditure reports – the largest penalty ever imposed in Nevada for such violations.

Carson City District Judge James Russell granted a summary judgment against Independent American Party candidate Zachary Michael Triggs, who was a candidate for Washoe County clerk in 2002, said Secretary of State Ross Miller.

Triggs failed to file three campaign contribution and expenditure reports during the campaign.

Miller said it’s believed to be the biggest penalty over imposed in Nevada. The largest previous penalty was $37,000.

“There is no excuse for non-compliance,” Miller said.

Triggs was ordered to pay $15,000 in civil penalties for failing to file the reports, $33,369 in attorneys’ fees and $5,934 in interest.

Triggs, who could not be reached for comment, got 20 percent of the vote, losing to Republican Amy Harvey.

Discussion: 1 comment so far…

By Johnathan_Abbinett

7/2/09 at 4:37 p.m.

Suggest removal

The Independent American Party (IAP) has the coolest name in the minds of many of our less informed citizens - but, be forewarned people - you really need to check these people out before you just check their box on your voter registration form because it sounds "Independent" and "American" - you'll be shocked who is really behind this minor political party!

I'm happy to hear that this guy got hit hard for not even respecting established campaign rules and the law - KUDOS to SOS Ross Miller!