Lawmaker: Nikko Jenkins-prison probe requires subpoena power

Joe Jordan | Nebraska Watchdog

Accused mass murderer Nikko Jenkins’ controversial release from prison—the subject of a special report by Nebraska Watchdog— demands a wide ranging investigation complete with subpoena power, according to one key lawmaker.

State Sen. Steve Lathrop of Omaha is pushing for a special legislative committee to examine the Corrections Department’s handling of Jenkins’ case.

State Ombudsman Marshall Lux issued a scathing report earlier this month accusing corrections officials of dropping the ball by releasing Jenkins from prison without treating his mental problems.

In his report Lux also defended the state’s “good time” law.

Gov. Dave Heineman, who wants the law changed arguing it would keep inmates like Jenkins behind bars longer, has accused Lux of being “soft on crime.”

At the same time Heineman’s Correction’s Department disputes the Lux report’s “factual allegations” although prison officials, citing pending lawsuits, did not explain further.

According to Lathrop the Lux-Heineman duel “has created confusion among the public” regarding Jenkins’ release.

Lathrop is asking the Legislature’s Executive Board to approve a five-member panel armed with consultants, investigators and outside legal counsel.

The committee, which would hold hearings and if necessary force officials to testify, would issue its report and recommendations to the Legislature no later than December 15.

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