From Prescott Pulse:
We would like to thank AZ Senator Mark Finchem for adding some excellent points to our last article, the City of Prescott’s “So Far” Smoke Screen: Why their Press Release Falls Flat in the Hanna Case.
His detailed comments, shared in response to the ongoing discussion, add crucial legal clarity on government accountability, immunity limitations, and the risks of unlawful conduct in local governance.
As a refresher, our article argues that the City of Prescott’s December 9, 2025, press release prematurely and deceptively portrays the denials of preliminary temporary injunctions as decisive “overwhelming” victories, implying Sherrie Hanna’s lawsuits are doomed. These suits allege serious misconduct, including collusion, violations of open meeting laws, backroom deals, and conflicts of interest surrounding the May 20, 2025, appointment of Councilmember Patrick Grady. (See examples below)
In truth, these early rulings dealt with procedural matters and leave the core substantive claims entirely untouched. The heart of the case remains unlitigated: no full trial has occurred, no witnesses have been sworn in or cross-examined, and no external parties implicated in the alleged collusion have testified.
Senator Finchem’s input reinforces our call for scrutiny by clarifying Arizona law’s stance on official liability. As he aptly explains: “There is a larger issue at work here than who will occupy what seat. Arizona law does not protect elected officials from liability for illegal acts committed while in an official capacity. Protections like immunity apply only to lawful or discretionary actions within their authority, not to unlawful conduct.”
Continue reading: https://prescottpulse.substack.com/p/senator-mark-finchem-adds-great-points