In June 2008, Deputy Richard Sapcut investigated a reported dog fighting incident, leading to the indictment of Joe C. Lewis Jr. and Dalton Brewer on animal cruelty charges. The plaintiffs alleged that Sapcut conducted a poor investigation, fabricated evidence, and made defamatory statements to the press. The charges against Lewis were dismissed, and Brewer was acquitted. The plaintiffs filed a lawsuit claiming false arrest, malicious prosecution, and defamation. The court granted summary judgment in favor of the defendants, finding that Sapcut had probable cause and that his statements were protected by qualified privilege. ([casetext.com](https://casetext.com/case/lewis-v-laurel-cnty-sheriffs-dept-richard-sapcut?utm_source=openai))
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