Probe Clears Sheriff, DA of Bryant Leaks

An investigation requested by Kobe Bryant’s defense team has cleared the Eagle County sheriff and district attorney of leaking details about the sexual assault case to the media.

Sheriff Joe Hoy said he had no doubt his office would be cleared.

“We just do not spread leaks or allow leaks to happen,” he said.

District Attorney Mark Hurlbert did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Defense attorney Pamela Mackey did not return a call.

Bryant is charged with sexually assaulting a 19-year-old employee of the ritzy Lodge & Spa at Cordillera on June 30. He has said the two had consensual sex.

Free on $250,000 bond, the Los Angeles Lakers’ star faces an Oct. 9 preliminary hearing to determine whether he will stand trial.

A number of print and broadcast media stories have detailed the investigation and quoted anonymous sources. County Court Judge Frederick Gannett, who had already issued a gag order in the case, ordered the investigation after Bryant’s defense complained.

While Pitkin County investigators have cleared authorities in Eagle County, it remained unclear who is leaking details to the media.

“The sheriff has made it absolutely clear to his employees what the rules are,” said Jack Ingstad, Eagle County manager.

Bryant faces up to four years to life in prison if convicted or 20 years to life on probation. He also could face a fine of up to $750,000.