Nelson County sheriff, chief deputy accused of violating no-retaliation order tied to lawsuit

BARDSTOWN, Ky. (WDRB) -- Two Nelson County law enforcement officers were back in court Monday morning, facing allegations outlined in a whistleblower lawsuit.

According to prosecutors, Nelson County Sheriff Ramon Pineiroa and his chief deputy, Brandon Bryan, violated a no-retaliation order tied to the lawsuit.

Both Pineiroa and Bryan were indicted on criminal charges in March, including abuse of public trust and theft.

They're accused of selling three vehicles from a Nelson County evidence warehouse that had been seized by the sheriff's office, and retaliating against the detectives who reported the crimes.

Attorneys for Pineiroa and Bryan have dismissed the allegations as unfounded.

Each pleaded not guilty in their initial court appearances March 20, following the indictments. They were permitted to continue working, but a special judge issued strict conditions and a stern warning that there was "not going to be any kind of retaliatory action taken by any person" and warned against any punitive actions.

The judged also barred both Pineiroa and Bryan from contacting any victims listed in the indictment.

But they have since been accused of trying to harass one of the whistleblowers. In court Monday, prosecutors asked the judge to hold them in contempt.

The judge set a hearing on the matter for July 28.

Pineiroa announced his reelection campaign earlier this month.

Previous Coverage:

Nelson County Sheriff indicted on criminal charges announces re-election

Prosecutors asked to provide more details in indictment of Nelson County sheriff, chief deputy

Nelson County sheriff, chief deputy ordered to follow strict guidelines after indictment

Nelson County sheriff, chief deputy appear in court amid allegations of misconduct

Bardstown residents complain of latest corruption case after sheriff, chief deputy were indicted

Nelson County sheriff, chief deputy indicted on multiple charges