​I am issuing this statement to address claims that have recently been circulated concerning my background and candidacy.  A text blast was sent out to voters in my area; it did not have the required disclosure regarding who paid for it. It came from supporters of my opponent.

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I do not believe in running a negative campaign; however, the false accusations made against me require a response.

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The statements reference a 2013 article published in the Glendale Star and a more recent article published by the Arizona Daily Independent.

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2013 Glendale Star Article

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The 2013 Glendale Star article arose during a period when complaints were filed against me by individuals with whom I had prior professional disagreements.  One of those individuals was a former constable who had lost an election and believed I was responsible for the outcome.  Another individual involved was his friend, who filed numerous complaints against constables.  According to public records, this friend was later declared a vexatious litigant by Maricopa County.

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The complaints referenced in the article were reviewed by the Arizona Attorney General's Office.  I was ultimately cleared of ALL allegations.

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Arizona Daily Independent Article

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The Arizona Daily Independent recently published an article that referenced the earlier Glendale Star story. I was not contacted for comment before that article was published and therefore was not given an opportunity to provide my perspective or respond to its contents.

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Election Challenge

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The article also references a legal challenge involving my opponent.

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My challenge was based on valid concerns regarding petition signatures and required election filings.  Among the issues raised were:

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• Questions regarding the validity of certain petition signatures based on affidavits obtained from voters.  30 to 40 percent of the signatures were collected in a fraudulent manner.  Circulators told voters they could sign for anyone registered in the household even though they did not have permission to do so.  

• Questions regarding information disclosed on the candidate's Financial Disclosure Statement and other required election documents.  Feria signed under perjury that the FDS was accurate and complete.  It was not, she did not disclose her licenses as a Legal Document preparer or Notary.  She did not disclose the businesses that she owns or has an interest in.  She failed to disclose her positions in government commission groups.  There was only one item on the document, a gift from a lobbyist.  Because of her position as an Arizona licensed document preparer, perjury on a legal document is unacceptable.

 

The legal action was ultimately withdrawn after I was unable to secure legal representation.  Several attorneys I consulted declined representation because of potential conflicts of interest with Feria’s boyfriend/domestic partner.  Without counsel and facing litigation on an expedited election schedule, I decided it was appropriate to withdraw the case.

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The withdrawal of the lawsuit was not a judicial determination on the merits of the issues that were raised by me.

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Closing

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After more than twenty years of public service, I RETIRED as the Constable for the Manistee Justice Precinct.  Throughout my career,  I gained the experience, knowledge, and integrity necessary to serve as your Justice of the Peace.

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In addition to my service as Constable, I served as a Hearing Officer and continue to serve in leadership roles within the justice system, instructing constables and marshals in civil law and procedures.  I have served for several years—and currently serve as Chairman of the Board of the National Constables' and Marshals' Association.

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The trust placed in me by constables and marshals from across the nation reflects the reputation I have earned through decades of professional service, leadership, and integrity.

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Anyone who has questions about my record is welcome to contact me directly:

Phone: 623-910-4100

Email: LennieMcCloskey4JP@gmail.com