In June 2017, former deputy sheriff Mark Stacey filed a civil lawsuit against Sheriff Donald Keeler Jr. and the Addison County Sheriff’s Department, alleging wrongful termination. Stacey claimed he was fired in July 2016 after expressing interest in running for sheriff during a confidential Leicester selectboard meeting. He alleged that his termination violated his right to free speech under the U.S. and Vermont Constitutions. Keeler contended that Stacey was a part-time employee serving at his pleasure and denied any wrongdoing.
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