November 14, 2024, Oral Arguments
Sullivan, P.E. vs Baker Ranches, Inc.
Carson City – 10:30 a.m. – Panel B
Vaughn (Kenneth) vs. State
Carson City – 11:00 a.m. – Panel B
Sullivan, P.E. vs Baker Ranches, Inc.
Docket No. 86783
Carson City – 10:30 a.m. – Panel B
Respondent Baker Ranches has water rights in Baker Creek that flow through Great Basin National Park. The National Park Service (NPS) was issued a permit to access flow from Baker Creek. Afterwards, Baker Ranches asked Adam Sullivan, the State Engineer, to investigate an alleged violation of its rights by NPS. About one year prior, Baker Ranches had filed suit in federal court against NPS. The State Engineer issued a letter holding the alleged violation case in abeyance pending the conclusion of the federal litigation. The district court granted judicial review of the State Engineer’s decision, which the State Engineer appeals. The State Engineer also appeals the district court’s conclusions that the State Engineer did not have discretion to put the alleged violation investigation in abeyance and rely on the federal litigation.
Vaughn (Kenneth) vs. State
Docket No. 85629
Carson City – 11:00 a.m. – Full Court
Appellant Kenneth Vaughn was convicted of eight felonies and two gross misdemeanors related to offering false instruments for recording, simulating legal processes, and intimidating public officials. He was adjudicated as a habitual criminal and sentenced to 5-20 years in the aggregate. Vaughn now appeals his conviction and sentence, claiming his right to a speedy trial was violated, there was insufficient evidence to convict, he was prejudiced by witness testimony and a misleading jury instructions, his adjudication as a habitual criminal violated his constitutional rights, and the district court erred in rewarding restitution.