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New prosecutor lined up in Jenson case

Posted at 6:29 PM, Aug 05, 2013
and last updated 2013-08-05 20:29:56-04

SALT LAKE CITY — Utah County’s acting attorney could be the new prosecutor in the case against Marc Sessions Jenson.

Jenson claimed attorneys with the attorney general John Swallow’s office threatened him and his family.

Jenson is currently serving prison time on securities fraud charges.

Jenson has accused Swallow and former Utah Attorney General Mark Shurtleffof a “shakedown” of gifts, trips and cash as his case was pending. Swallow has not denied taking trips to a posh resort on
Jenson’s dime, but recently said some of the receipts offered as proof were forged.

Because Swallow was the deputy attorney under Shurtleff at the time, Jenson’s lawyer says, the case against Jenson should be dropped.

The AG’s office has agreed to take a step back and allow Tim Taylor, Utah County’s attorney to step in.

“I don’t think I’ve ever met Mr. Shurtleff or Mr. Swallow,” Taylor said. “No, the only thing I’ve seen is on the news.”

While Jenson’s attorney isn’t questioning Taylor’s qualifications, he thinks the case is already tainted.

“I would look for him to approach this case with a fresh set of eyes,” said Marcus Mumford, Jenson’s attorney.

Mumford is also going to ask the judge to reconsider the decision of appointing Taylor. That hearing is scheduled for Sept. 20.