The Vindictive Prosecution of Joe Francis

The New York Times has finally picked up the story of the abusive prosecution of Joe Francis by Steve Meadows. The prosecutors conduct has been so egregious that even the right-wing pundits are supporting him. From the article:

His most vocal allies are not the Hollywood A-listers who have vacationed at his Mexico estate, but conservative radio hosts and their listeners, who suspect government shenanigans.

Mr. Francis’ high-profile and involvement in what some would consider a “seedy” business has made him an easy target for politicians looking to score cheap points. What is violating the constitution to a politician when it can score some votes?

Mayor Sullivan took exception and law enforcement officials cracked down on acts of lewd behavior, which interfered with the filming. Mr. Francis sued the officials, claiming violation of his First Amendment rights, and got them to settle and back down.

Steve Meadows, the Abe Weiss-like prosecutor, went even further than Mayor Sullivan to score votes. The New York Times article left out several pertinent facts related to the case:

Francis's Nevada attorney David R. Houston has filed a criminal referral to the Florida Attorney General, Florida Governor Charlie Crist and the Florida Bar asking that Prosecutor Meadows be investigated and prosecuted for criminal activity, based on his exhibition to Nightline reporter Martin Bashir and others of child pornography.
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Meadows, who faces reelection...
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Recently, Meadows made statements on a VH1 television program asserting Francis's guilt before Francis has even been tried, referring to evidence that has already been ruled inadmissible in the case.