UPDATE: Clark County sheriff’s commander speaks after ‘won’t help Democrats’ post

Sheriff’s commander: ‘I will not obey orders that are unlawful’

LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — Sheriff’s Commander John Bunnell said he will not obey orders from Clark County Sheriff Joe Lombardo if those orders violate the Constitution. Bunnell made the comments in a Facebook post after Lombardo issued an order directing deputies to arrest people who violate the county’s mask mandate.

“I will not obey orders that are unlawful. I will not enforce unconstitutional edicts,” Bunnell wrote. “I will not violate my oath to protect the Constitution.”

Lombardo did not immediately respond to a request for comment, but Sheriff’s Office spokesman Dan Kulin confirmed that Bunnell made the Facebook post.

Bunnell’s comments come as Clark County is experiencing a surge in coronavirus cases. The county has reported more than 30,000 cases and over 600 deaths. The mask mandate is one of several measures that have been put in place to try to slow the spread of the virus.

Bunnell’s comments have been praised by some and criticized by others. Some people have accused Bunnell of being a “rogue cop” who is defying the orders of his superior. Others have praised Bunnell for standing up for his beliefs and for protecting the Constitution.

It is unclear what will happen to Bunnell now that he has made these comments. It is possible that he could be fired or disciplined. It is also possible that his comments will have no impact on his job. This is still a developing story and more updates will be given as they become available.

Background on the mask mandate

The Clark County mask mandate was issued on June 24, 2020. The mandate requires people to wear masks in all indoor public places, including businesses, government buildings, and schools. The mandate does not apply to people who are under the age of 2, people who have a medical condition that prevents them from wearing a mask, and people who are eating or drinking.

The mask mandate has been controversial since it was issued. Some people have argued that the mandate is an infringement on their freedom. Others have argued that the mandate is necessary to protect public health.

The mask mandate has been challenged in court. A group of business owners filed a lawsuit against the county, arguing that the mandate is unconstitutional. The lawsuit is still pending.

Sheriff Lombardo’s response to Bunnell’s comments

Clark County Sheriff Joe Lombardo said he was “disappointed” by Bunnell’s comments. Lombardo said that he believes that the mask mandate is a legal order and that deputies are obligated to enforce it.

“I will not tolerate any insubordination or dereliction of duty,” Lombardo said. “I will take appropriate action to address this matter.”

It is unclear what action Lombardo will take against Bunnell. It is possible that he could be fired or suspended. It is also possible that Lombardo will take no action at all.

Conclusion

The situation in Clark County is still developing. It is unclear what will happen to Bunnell or to the mask mandate. This is a story that will continue to be followed closely.