During a recent government meeting, a resident raised serious concerns regarding the handling of a tort claim involving the Du Bois County Sheriff’s Department. The individual detailed their experience after filing a claim related to the alleged theft of personal property from their vehicle while it was in the sheriff's custody.
The resident reported that after submitting their claim last November, they received no response for several months. It was only after contacting Commissioner Glassner that the claim was reviewed and subsequently sent to the insurance company, GIEDI. The initial denial cited insufficient filing time, which the resident contested. A second denial followed, stating that the insurance policy did not cover losses due to theft by an employee.
The resident expressed frustration over the lack of communication from the sheriff's department and the insurance company, describing their interactions as unprofessional. They claimed to have evidence, including photographs and bank statements, to support their assertion that money was in their possession when the vehicle was towed. The individual noted that this situation has led to significant financial hardship and damage to their reputation, stating that they have been waiting for nearly 18 months to recover their lost property.
Additionally, the resident highlighted a perceived pattern of misconduct within the sheriff's department, suggesting that their case is not an isolated incident. They urged the county to take responsibility for the situation, emphasizing the negative impact it has had on their life and business.
The meeting underscored the ongoing issues within the sheriff's department and raised questions about accountability and the treatment of residents' claims. The resident's plea for resolution reflects broader concerns about transparency and responsiveness in local law enforcement agencies.