Claim Filed Against Pend Oreille County

Tue., Jan. 11, 2000

From Staff Reports

A Newport-area couple is seeking more than $1.7 million from Pend Oreille County for alleged police misconduct in a January 1997 raid that resulted in their conviction for cruelty to animals in their dog-breeding kennel.

Jeanette and Swen Bergman recently dropped their appeal of the convictions in exchange for reductions in their sentences. Although the settlement may have resolved issues pertaining to the convictions, the Bergmans now contend they were improperly deprived of property and privacy.

The Bergmans say in a claim for damages, which could open the door to a lawsuit if rejected, that they are entitled to $210,000 for loss of dogs, crates, food, collars, leashes and the use of cash that was temporarily seized as evidence.

They also contend the county should pay $105,000 for their young son’s emotional suffering and loss of privacy. For their own emotional suffering, loss of privacy and damage to their reputation, the Bergmans are demanding $1.45 million.

Prosecutor Tom Metzger declined to comment on the claim, which he sent to the county’s insurance carrier for review.

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