Judge Refuses to Force Shepard to Return $1.9 Million from WNMU Payout

A judge has decided not to make Joseph Shepard return his $1.9 million severance from WNMU while legal issues are sorted out

Judge Refuses to Force Shepard to Return $1.9 Million from WNMU Payout
Judge Refuses to Force Shepard to Return $1.9 Million from WNMU Payout

Grant County: A state judge recently ruled that Joseph Shepard, the outgoing president of Western New Mexico University, doesn’t have to return his $1.9 million severance just yet. The judge, Jarod K. Hofacket, said he wants to gather more information before making any decisions.

Shepard resigned after a state audit found he misused public funds. His severance package, approved by the university’s board, has raised eyebrows, especially since it includes a hefty payout and a high-salary position.

The Attorney General’s office is pushing back, claiming the deal violated the Open Meetings Act and is too generous. They filed a request to stop the payment, but it turns out the check was already cut before they could act.

Shepard’s lawyer argues that the agreement was valid and that the state hasn’t shown any real harm if the money isn’t returned right away. The judge emphasized the need for more evidence to figure out if the contract was even legal.

Both sides expressed their views after the hearing, with Shepard’s attorney feeling positive about the outcome, while the state was disappointed but still determined to challenge the payment. It looks like this case is just getting started!

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