The state ignored or was unaware of allegations of jailhouse rape, brutal beatings and corrupt acts by sheriffs and their deputies, even when there was ample evidence to examine.
Powerful figures in Mississippi, including the attorney general, two judges and a future congressman, learned how a sheriff lied to spy on his girlfriend. They all kept his secret.
Alex Villanueva’s combative approach has antagonized many officials and spurred an extraordinary ballot measure that would allow county leaders to oust him.