Jonathan Bleiweiss Jeopardizes Pending Criminal Cases, May Have Abused Homeless

The work and reputation of Jonathan Bleiweiss, the Broward Country deputy who allegedly forced himself on at least eight undocumented Latino immigrants, are being increasingly called into question. Prosecutors are now evaluating 15 pending criminal cases that may have hinged upon testimony from Bleiweiss - including a case of attempted murder, two cases of battery on a law enforcement officer, an armed robbery and several arrests related charges of driving under the influence. Lawyers say the cases are likely to “fall apart” if they are to rely on his word. 

Additionally, reports are trickling in that Bleiweiss, in addition to allegedly preying on illegal immigrants, may also have physically abused the homeless. His lawyer calls these rumors ridiculous and chalks them up to people discriminating Bleiweiss for being gay. Yeah? Not for the whole fondling-frightened-and-humiliated-young-men-while-they-tearfully-begged-him-to-stop thing? Those vicious omophobes! 

Says the lawyer:

He’s an open target now, especially as a law enforcement officer and as an openly gay deputy. Where were all these people before? You have to be suspicious of their motivations and biases. You have a good, tough officer, and naturally people are not going to like him.

Let’s assume the people coming forward against Bleiweiss aren’t lying. As a lawyer, wouldn’t Bleiweiss’ attorney be aware that it is not inconceivable that, once one victim comes forward to tell his story, others might take courage and follow suit? Of course, there is a chance that eight different undocumented, heterosexual young Latinos are ok and comfortable with coming forward and discussing in great detail how an American law enforcement officer went down on the them during a traffic stop in order to stick it to the man. Or something. 

Prosecutors are already expressing worry about whether the victims will be willing to testify in court although they are hoping that the prospect of obtaining a “U visa” will help convince them to participate. They are also asking anyone else with information on alleged police misconduct to come forward. 

Accused Broward deputy’s cases now in jeopardy [The Miami Herald]