Nevada Commission on Ethics approves written opinion in case 22-051C involving Joseph Rodriguez

The Nevada Commission on Ethics on the record approved a written opinion in ethics complaint case number 22-051C concerning Joseph Rodriguez, identified in the agenda as a trustee of the West Oak County School District and as a lieutenant with the State Fire Marshal Division.

Vice Chair Dufferin presided over the matter after Chair Wallen recused from the review-panel role. Commissioner Yan disclosed that he is a partner at the law firm representing Rodriguez and said his private commitments could reasonably affect his independence; Yan stated he would abstain from participation, citing the applicable NRS provision. Deputy Attorney General St. Jules acknowledged the disclosure.

Commissioner Lowery moved to approve the written order and to instruct commission counsel to finalize the opinion in legal form and to serve it on all parties. Commissioner Gruenewald seconded the motion. With the participating commissioners present, the motion carried unanimously.

The Commission record indicates that members of the original review panel who are no longer sitting (identified in the record as Wallin, Tauer and Sheets) did not participate in this consideration, as permitted under NRS provisions governing recusals and panel composition. The approved order will be finalized by commission counsel and served according to standard procedures.

The Commission did not receive oral comment from Rodriguez or counsel in the meeting; the order and related documents are published as part of the public record.