Dundy County Attorney faces recall effort

BENKELMAN, Neb. — Dundy County attorney Gary Burke has been accused of incompetency as a criminal prosecutor and may face a recall election.

Burke said he is disappointed that a resident would choose to use a recall effort rather than coming into his office to discuss her concerns.

The Benkelman Post and News-Chronicle reports that Monica Petersen has until Aug. 21 to procure the valid signatures of at least 200 registered voters, the equivalent of 35 percent of total votes cast for the county attorney's office in the last general election. If Petersen receives enough signatures, the county commissioners will need to set a special election giving voters the opportunity to retain or recall Burke.

The Post reports that Petersen's statement of reason(s) for the recall reads: Burke is incompetent as a criminal prosecutor and has failed to fulfill his obligation to go justice in Dundy County. He fails to protect women and children, is unreliable and has no ties to the community. People who commit felonies and high misdemeanors have no fear of being brought to justice in the court system in Dundy County.

Burke responded in a statement of defense: "It is disappointing that a resident of Dundy County would choose to use a recall effort as opposed to simply coming in my office to discuss her needs and concerns.

“As to the allegations made, I am unable to respond to unsubstantiated rumors or social media drivel concerning my performance as county attorney."