Full Breakdown
Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill’s Felony Indictment Dismissed
7/23/2026, 4:16:11 AM
Core Event: Special Prosecutor Nolle Prosses All Charges
On July 22, 2026, retired judge Laurie White, acting as special prosecutor, entered a nolle prosequi on all 16 felony counts against Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill, ending the case that began with a grand-jury indictment in Orleans Parish.
Background & Context
The dispute stemmed from a state law that eliminated an elected clerk position held by exoneree Calvin Duncan and merged it with another clerk’s office. Republican leaders said the consolidation would improve efficiency; New Orleans officials opposed it. On May 13, Murrill sent letters to Mayor Helena Moreno and other city officials warning they could lose their offices for violating the new “usurper” law. City leaders later called the letters threatening. A New Orleans grand jury returned a 16-count indictment on July 2, charging Murrill with malfeasance in office and public intimidation.
Timeline
- May 13 – Murrill’s letters are sent.
- July 2 – Grand jury indicts Murrill on 16 felony counts; Louisiana Supreme Court issues an emergency stay.
- July 21 – Mayor Moreno, five City Council members, and District Attorney Jason Williams request dismissal.
- July 22 – White files a nolle prosequi on all counts.
Key Figures & Groups
- Liz Murrill – Republican Louisiana Attorney General.
- Laurie White – Retired judge appointed special prosecutor.
- Jeff Landry – Republican Governor of Louisiana.
- Helena Moreno – Democratic Mayor of New Orleans.
- Jason Williams – Orleans Parish District Attorney.
- Clay Higgins – Republican U.S. Representative who asked the DOJ to review the grand-jury process.
Data & Statistics
- 16 felony counts: eight for malfeasance, eight for intimidation.
- Eight alleged victims: Mayor Moreno, five City Council members, District Attorney Williams.
Official Statements & Responses
- Laurie White said she acted “in accordance with the law” and warned that “extraordinary interference” was “truly unfortunate.”
- Jeff Landry pledged a swift pardon for Murrill and called the grand jury a “kangaroo court.”
- Clay Higgins wrote to the DOJ requesting a “deeper look” into the grand-jury process.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Extraordinary interference in this situation has been truly unfortunate, and we should all hope that it doesn’t set a precedent,” — Laurie White
- “I performed my responsibilities as an appointed prosecutor in accordance with the law,” — Laurie White
- “What I did was not a crime, it was never a crime,” — Liz Murrill
- “Based on letters received from alleged victims in the case, as special prosecutor I have nolle prossed all 16 counts,” — Laurie White
- “This case should have NEVER been started because there was NO crime. This outcome will not deter my efforts to get to the bottom of this,” — Liz Murrill
What’s Next
Murrill announced she will inquire into White’s actions and the grand jury’s conduct. Governor Landry reiterated his intention to pardon Murrill if any future prosecution arises. State police continue to cooperate with the governor’s office, while Rep. Higgins awaits a DOJ response to his request for a federal review.
