Chief deputy district attorney Nelson abruptly resigns

A veteran Clark County prosecutor has abruptly resigned.

Clark County spokesman Dan Kulin confirmed Thursday that Chief Deputy District Attorney Roy Nelson was no longer with the office.

Sources said Nelson resigned Nov. 10 "in lieu of termination."

Nelson, 36, who joined the district attorney's office in 2001, headed the gun crimes unit. He prosecuted several murder cases and was one of two prosecutors who handled criminal cases against boxer Floyd Mayweather, Jr.

Nelson declined to comment Thursday.

Kulin said it would be inappropriate to discuss specifics of Nelson's resignation.

Las Vegas police Lt. Dave Logue, who runs the Criminal Intelligence Section that has investigated lawyers in the past, declined to comment Thursday, saying Nelson's departure was a "personnel matter within the district attorney's office." District Attorney David Roger declined to discuss the resignation.

Nelson's sudden departure created a buzz at the Regional Justice Center, where he made regular court appearances. Fellow prosecutors and defense lawyers who frequently sparred with him said they were surprised by his resignation.

"He was a well-respected prosecutor and well-liked by everyone in the courthouse," said longtime defense lawyer Thomas Pitaro, who had gone toe-to-toe with Nelson in court.

Contact reporter Jeff German at jgerman@reviewjournal.com or 702-380-8135.