Former Sheriff Jerry Hatcher faced multiple allegations of misconduct, including intimidation, retaliation, and creating a hostile work environment. In 2021, seven current and former employees filed a $22 million lawsuit against Benton County, claiming the county failed to protect them from Hatcher’s actions. The lawsuit alleged violations of First Amendment rights, defamation, invasion of privacy, and retaliation. Additionally, Hatcher was accused of attempting to tamper with evidence by instructing a commander to redistribute ammunition that was potential evidence in a case. These actions led to his recall from office in November 2021. ([tri-cityherald.com](https://www.tri-cityherald.com/news/politics-government/article283973728.html?utm_source=openai), [caselaw.findlaw.com](https://caselaw.findlaw.com/court/wa-supreme-court/2106661.html?utm_source=openai))
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