EXECUTIVE ORDER NUMBER 07-82

STATE OF FLORIDA
OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
EXECUTIVE ORDER NUMBER 07-82
WHEREAS, the Honorable WILLIAM N. MEGGS, State Attorney for the Second Judicial Circuit of Florida, has advised Governor Charlie Crist that Eric William Thiele is under investigation for allegations of child pornography, a violation of the criminal laws of the State of Florida; and
WHEREAS, the Honorable WILLIAM N. MEGGS has also advised the Governor that Eric William Thiele is related to the Leon County Attorney who has a close working relationship with the state attorney’s office; and
WHEREAS, the Honorable WILLIAM N. MEGGS, to avoid any appearance of conflict of interest or impropriety, has voluntarily disqualified himself and has requested the executive assignment of another State Attorney with respect to the investigation and potential prosecution of this case and all related matters; and
WHEREAS, the Honorable JERRY M. BLAIR, State Attorney for the Third Judicial Circuit of Florida, has agreed to accept an executive assignment in this matter; and
WHEREAS, it is in the best interest of the State of Florida and of the ends of justice that the Honorable JERRY M. BLAIR be assigned to discharge the duties of the Honorable WILLIAM N. MEGGS, pursuant to Section 27.14, Florida Statutes;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, CHARLIE CRIST, Governor of Florida, in obedience to my solemn constitutional duty to "take care that the laws be faithfully executed," and
pursuant to the Constitution and laws of the State of Florida, issue the following Executive Order effective immediately:
Section 1.
The Honorable JERRY M. BLAIR, State Attorney for the Third Judicial Circuit of Florida, referred to as the "Assigned State Attorney," is assigned to discharge the duties of the Honorable WILLIAM N. MEGGS, State Attorney for the Second Judicial Circuit of Florida, as they relate to the investigation, potential prosecution and all matters related to Eric William Thiele.
Section 2.
The Assigned State Attorney or one or more Assistant State Attorneys and Investigators designated by the Assigned State Attorney, shall proceed immediately to the Second Judicial Circuit of Florida, and are vested with the authority to perform the duties prescribed above.
Section 3.
All residents of the Second Judicial Circuit are requested, and all public officials are directed, to cooperate and render whatever assistance is necessary to the Assigned State Attorney, so that justice may be served.
Section 4.
The period of this Executive Assignment shall be for one (1) year, to and including May 2, 2008.
Section 5.
The Assigned State Attorney shall notify the Governor on or before April 2, 2008, if additional time is required.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and have caused the Great Seal of the State of Florida to be affixed at Tallahassee, the Capitol, this 2nd day of May, 2007.
_____________________________
GOVERNOR
ATTEST:
______________________________
SECRETARY OF STATE