PORT TOWNSEND — Richard Brees, Republican candidate for sheriff, has filed a claim against Jefferson County asking for $5 million in damages for a March 16 arrest and events that followed.
The arrest on misdemeanor charges followed a dispute and altercation between Brees and his Embody Road neighbor, William Thayer, that landed Brees in jail for the night with a black eye.
Brees said that his arrest and other actions taken by the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office were influenced by his candidacy and a “vendetta attitude” of the Sheriff’s Office.
“It revolves around running for the office of sheriff,” Brees.
Sheriff Mike Brasfield declined to comment on Brees’ claim.
“Given the fact that Mr. Brees is a candidate in the upcoming sheriff race, any response would be awkward at best,” said Brasfield.
Found not guilty
A jury found Brees not guilty following a trial in Jefferson County District Court last month.
Brees was charged with fourth-degree assault and third-degree malicious mischief charges.
Thayer, who had Brees’ shoe print on the front of his T-shirt following the incident, claimed Brees had assaulted him without cause and damaged his metal fence.
Brees claimed he acted in self-defense and was arrested by sheriff’s deputies before being able to give his side of the story.
Damages claimed
Brees claims damages for false arrest, malicious prosecution, false imprisonment, conspiracy to violate civil rights, home invasion in violation of civil rights, slander/defamation, unlawful seizure of person and property, and intentional infliction of emotional distress.
“The claim is ongoing,” Brees said.
“We truly expect it to be expanded.”
