Wash. Supreme Court published opinion — 989681.pdf

Citation: Wash. Supreme Court published opinion — 989681.pdf
Jurisdiction: Washington (state)
Source: Official source
Original Source: https://www.courts.wa.gov/opinions/pdf/989681.pdf ↗

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stabs, and throws members of the command staff under the bus.” Id. at 185. He

23
For the current opinion, go to https://www.lexisnexis.com/clients/wareports/.
In re Recall Charges Against Benton County Sheriff Gerald D. Hatcher,
No. 98968-1

also told Ms. Blatt that the sheriff makes comments that the officers need

counseling because they are “‘soft’” and “‘weak.’” Id. He also indicated that the

sheriff has threatened his job through restructuring.

Ms. Blatt’s investigation did not substantiate harassment or discrimination

on the basis of religion, but it did substantiate harassment and retaliation based on

union activity and affiliation. It concludes that Sheriff Hatcher has created “an

intimidating and hostile work environment . . . .” Id. at 196-97. This hostile work

environment was compounded by Sheriff Hatcher’s attempt to control the narrative

of the investigation through his wrongful conduct toward his employees. His

conduct was wrongful and affected and interfered with the performance of his

official duties.

As to ballot synopsis charge 3 specifically, Sergeant Erickson alleges that on

or about March 19, 2020,3 as discussed above, Sheriff Hatcher violated the Anti-

Discrimination Policy when he prevented two witnesses (Commander Law and

Commander Caughey) from interviewing with the investigator.

Under the policy,

Benton County does not tolerate any retaliation against any person for
opposing unlawful discrimination or harassment, making a
discrimination or harassment complaint, or participating in an
investigation or complaint proceeding. Prohibited conduct includes

3
The recall petition reads March 9, 2020, however, the record appears to indicate this occurred
on March 19, 2020. See CP at 72.