Colorado DA admits to mishandling cases, could be suspended

The Denver Post reports that a southern Colorado district attorney has admitted to mishandling more than a dozen criminal cases and will spend the next two years under close supervision.

In a report Thursday, the Post said Frank Ruybalid could be suspended from practicing law for six months if he doesn’t stick to an agreement reached this month with the state’s Attorney Regulations Counsel.

In 2013, the counsel filed a complaint against Ruybalid after the collapse of murder, assault, child abuse and other cases in his district of Las Animas and Huerfano counties because of allegations prosecutors failed to provide evidence to defense attorneys.

Ruybalid, who did not return calls from the Post and The Associated Press seeking comment, admitted as part of the agreement to mishandling evidence.