In February 2015, while off duty, Deputy Heather Cogar and a friend drove around town wearing masks, leading to a traffic stop by Deputy Michael Sanchez. This incident resulted in an internal affairs investigation, and Sheriff Jeff Dawsy terminated Cogar for policy violations, including untruthfulness and conduct unbecoming. Cogar appealed and was reinstated. In December 2016, Cogar was arrested for domestic battery against her then-boyfriend, a fellow deputy. Sheriff Dawsy terminated her again for alleged misconduct. Cogar appealed, and the board recommended reinstatement, finding the allegations unsubstantiated. Sheriff Mike Prendergast, who had recently assumed office, reinstated Cogar but demoted her to a dispatcher role, resulting in lower pay and loss of sworn officer status. Cogar filed a lawsuit alleging gender discrimination, but the jury found no adverse employment action. ([casetext.com](https://casetext.com/case/cogar-v-citrus-cnty-sheriffs-office?utm_source=openai))
[Return to blog post](https://watchaudits.com/heather-cogar-citrus-county-sheriffs-office/)
.
