Former deputy claims he was railroaded

SANDPOINT — A former Bonner County Sheriff’s deputy whose son was accidentally shocked by his Taser is seeking more than $500,000 in damages for wrongful termination.

Corey Cotter argues in a tort claim against the county that he was railroaded during an internal investigation into the April 26 incident. Cotter contends he was he “constructively discharged” in June when he declined to resign.

Cotter said in the tort that his 4-year-old son suffered a “brief shock” when he kicked at the Taser while he was “spark testing” it.

The electroshock device’s manufacturer recommends spark testing once every 24 hours to verify that it is working properly, according to Taser’s website.

Cotter said in the claim that he reported the incident to superiors and an administrative investigation was conducted. The internal investigation found that Cotter had violated more than a half-dozen department policies and codes of conduct concerning use of force, care of department property and insubordination.

But Cotter alleges in the tort claim Sheriff Daryl Wheeler and Lt. Bill McAuliffe conducted a negligent internal investigation that lacked objectivity and thoroughness. Cotter said his reputation has been damaged and his sacking is interfering with his efforts to gain another job in law enforcement.

The claim was filed on Nov. 24.

The county, by policy, does not comment on tort claims.

The county can either honor the claim or reject it. If the claim is denied, Cotter would have the option of filing a civil suit in 1st District Court.