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John is a former prosecutor who understands how the system works, making him an excellent choice if you need a criminal defense attorney. He will have a solid plan for you, especially if you are facing Nebraska DUI or Omaha DUI charges. He will be there for you anytime.
John has consistently achieved success at every level of the Nebraska legal system. Notably, as a criminal defense attorney, he secured a groundbreaking victory in 2015 before the Nebraska Supreme Court, which resulted in a landmark change to sentencing law and reduced his client's sentence by 10 years. John excels in DUI defense, particularly in Nebraska DUI cases, along with Domestic Violence, Drug Cases, and Child Neglect. His vast experience in all misdemeanor and felony cases, especially Omaha DUI situations, showcases his dedication and expertise in the courtroom, leading to countless victories.
AUGUST 14, 2026
HOLT COUNTY, NEBRASKA
JOHN ASHFORD DELIVERS A JURY TRIAL NOT GUILTY ON STALKING CHARGE
An Oneill man was found not guilty of stalking yesterday following a jury trial in Holt County Court, Case No. CR 26-6.
After hearing the evidence, the jury returned a verdict of not guilty. “This was our system working exactly as it should,” said John Ashford, counsel for Mr. Crist. “The State brought its case in good faith, the court oversaw a fair and orderly trial, and the jury gave the evidence its full and careful attention. Everyone involved approached this matter with professionalism and respect, and I’m grateful for that.”
“Cases like this are a reminder that the process itself deserves our confidence,” Mr. Ashford added. “The judge, the attorneys, and the jurors each did their part, and the result reflects the seriousness with which they took it. That’s a good day for the rule of law in Holt County.”
The defendant was grateful to have the support of Mr. Ashford and to have the matter behind him.
HOLT COUNTY COURTHOUSE
John’s great-grandfather, W. Otto Swanson, was regarded as one of the most influential Omahans of his era. In 1939, he helped more than 500 Jews escape Nazi Germany by securing their passage through Sweden to the United States. He also broke barriers in the 1930s by hiring minorities and Jewish employees at his Nebraska Clothing Company, at a time when many downtown businesses refused to do so.
John's Grandfather, Don Ashford, flew 60 missions over Germany in WWII including on D-Day for Nebraska's own Aksarben Knights.
John Ashford's father, Brad Ashford, served 16 years in the Nebraska Legislature and later in the US Congress. His contributions include the Qwest Center, saving Joslyn Castle, MECA, the Contagious Disease Center at Neb. Med., the runway refurbishment of Offut Air Force base, the deciding vote on the "blue dot", the first Brady Bill to pass a state legislature, and enumerable other contributions.
John's Uncle, Judge W. Mark Ashford served the County and District Courts in Nebraska. He founded the Douglas County Veterans Court. John worked with his Uncle to bring together stakeholders and successfully start and grow the first Veterans Court in Nebraska.