Re Harrison, sometimes doing the right thing is more important than political expediency.
Why is the governor and AG's involvement crazy? The Rhoden family massacre was a case in corrupt Applachia, murders committed by the offspring of a wealthy, powerful landowner. It took direct involvement of the AG, who was later governor, to make sure the case was thoroughly investigated and tried. There were no defense shenanigans like we've seen with other recent cases. A thorough investigation with clear, safe chain of custody, etc.
Sometimes those higher up the ladder, at the state police, AG level, are needed to make sure things go well. That's what AG's are for.