News

Actions

Sheriff Joe lawsuit update: Arpaio pleads not guilty to criminal contempt of court

Posted at 2:54 PM, Oct 28, 2016
and last updated 2016-10-28 19:35:50-04

Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio has signaled he intends to fight a criminal contempt of court case.

Friday, Arpaio's legal team entered a plea of not guilty to the charge that he willingly violated a judge's order in connection with a racial profiling case.

Earlier this month, federal authorities announced their intention to proceed with the contempt case, a move that was made final when U.S. District Court Judge Susan Bolton signed the order to show cause this week.

FULL COVERAGE: Lawsuit against Sheriff Joe Arpaio

Authorities have set a Nov. 3 date for a status conference-- just five days before voters head to the polls, where he is up for re-election.

In Friday's court filing, Arpaio waived his right to an appearance for arraignment.