Settlement resolves discrimination allegations
information released
Chelan County Sheriff Mike Morrison reports a settlement has been reached in the lawsuit filed by former Sheriff’s Deputy Aaron Shepard alleging discrimination prior to 2023.
In an effort to facilitate a resolution and allow the Sheriff’s Office to move forward, the County and its risk pool, of which it is a member, made an economic decision to settle the case. In exchange for releasing all claims, Mr. Shepard and his attorneys will receive $250,000 from the County’s risk pool.
It is important to note that both the County and the Sheriff’s Office did not admit fault through this settlement. We are hopeful that this resolution will allow the Sheriff’s Office to continue building on the exceptional progress that has been made over the past couple of years. This decision ensures that the matter can be put behind us and focus can remain on the important work of serving our communities.
The Sheriff’s Office extends its gratitude to all parties involved for their patience and professionalism throughout this process. We also wish to acknowledge Mr. Shepard for his dedicated service during his tenure from 2013 to 2022. We wish him and his family nothing but success in future endeavors.
In closing, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to fulfilling the mission of the Sheriff’s Office. The resources entrusted to us will remain focused on ensuring we stay a steadfast ally to the safety and security of all citizens while standing as an adversary to those who would threaten either.
Our vision also remains clear: a community where safety, justice, and security are ensured for all through an unwavering commitment to service. This vision is embodied in our motto, “Of the People, For the People.”
