The recall case involving Carl Benjamin Nett has entered a new phase following the filing of a detailed Bill of Particulars in the Loudoun County Circuit Court. The filing outlines specific allegations supporting the recall petition brought by the Qualified Voters of Purcellville and clarifies the conduct at issue as the case moves toward trial.
The recall petition was filed earlier this year by registered Purcellville voters, alleging misconduct and malfeasance by Nett in his role as vice mayor and purcellville police officer. Under Virginia law, a recall proceeding is a civil action that allows voters to seek removal of an elected official for alleged misconduct, neglect of duty, or misuse of office.
As part of the recall process, the court ordered the Attorney for the Commonwealth to provide greater factual detail supporting the allegations through a Bill of Particulars.
In response, Special Prosecutor Eric L. Olsen filed a Bill of Particulars outlining seven categories of alleged misconduct. According to the filing, the allegations span Nett’s conduct both as a former employee of the Purcellville Police Department and as a sitting member of the Purcellville Town Council.
The allegations include claims that Nett:
•Improperly received financial benefits through false sick leave claims
•Used his council position to seek personal financial gain or advancement within the police department
•Retaliated against the police department and its leadership following his termination
•Violated Virginia’s Freedom of Information Act
•Failed to follow town procedures, hiring rules, and procurement policies
•Violated Virginia’s Conflict of Interest Act
•Engaged in malfeasance in office, including attempting to suppress a consultant’s favorable evaluation of the police department
The Bill of Particulars aims to provide specific details so that the court can ascertain whether the recall petition meets the legal requirements.
Separate from the recall case, Nett was previously arrested alongside Town Manager Kwasi Fraser on felony charges related to bid rigging and conspiracy. Those criminal matters are proceeding on a separate track and are not decided as part of the recall action.
The Loudoun County Circuit Court has now scheduled the recall case to proceed as a jury hearing, set for March 2, March 3, and March 4. During that proceeding, a jury will hear evidence and determine whether the statutory grounds for recall under Virginia law have been met.
For ongoing coverage, filings, and court updates, stay tuned to Purcellville News.
