Dibartolo Faces Misconduct Claims

Already suspended without pay, Tom DiBartolo learned Thursday his job is in further jeopardy.

The Spokane County sheriff’s deputy charged with killing his wife was notified by the department’s Office of Professional Standards that he faces “additional allegations of misconduct.”

The new allegations could result in the 18-year deputy being fired, Sheriff John Goldman said.

“They involve rules and regulations, civil service laws and, of course, criminal laws,” said Goldman, who refused to elaborate.

DiBartolo, 42, is charged with first-degree murder in the shooting of his wife, Patty, 39.

The mother of five was shot in the back of the head Nov. 2 in the South Hill’s Lincoln Park. Detectives say DiBartolo murdered his wife, then shot himself in the side to try to cover up the crime.

DiBartolo, who blames the attack on robbers, has pleaded not guilty. He is free on bail until his June trial.

The allegations that DiBartolo violated professional standards resulted from an internal affairs investigation launched shortly after his arrest in January, Goldman said.

They have no bearing on the criminal case against the deputy.

DiBartolo has until 10 a.m. Monday to answer the charges that he violated the department’s policies.

, DataTimes