When you are in such disgrace that everyone is calling for your head, make your swearing-in a private event that occurs when the courthouse is closed to the public.

The swearing-in ceremony for embattled Durham District Attorney Mike Nifong apparently took place inside the Durham County Courthouse this morning while the press and other observers stood outside on the courthouse steps.

The ceremony was scheduled for 8 a.m. But the courthouse doesnÂ’t normally open until 8:30 a.m., and a sheriffÂ’s deputy told reporters and others that the doors would remain locked until then.

Nifong, who kept a low profile for the first 27 years of his career as a prosecutor in Durham, is now nationally known for his involvement in the sexual assault case against three former Duke University lacrosse players. The players deny accusations that they assaulted an escort service dancer at a party.

The swearing-in ceremony comes a week after the State Bar accused Nifong of ethics violations for his early public statements about the Duke lacrosse case. The agency regulates and licenses lawyers.

Nifong, appointed Durham District Attorney by Gov. Mike Easley in 2005, was elected to a four-year term in November.

So much for open government -- but then again, Nifong has made the wrong move and set a new low for prosecutorial conduct, so why should we be surprised?

Posted by: Greg at 06:44 AM | No Comments | Add Comment
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