Ex-lawmaker settles security deposit suit

BILLINGS – A Billings businessman and former state lawmaker sentenced to three days in jail last week for contempt of court has paid more than $9,000 to settle a dispute with a former tenant.

The Billings Gazette reports that 57-year-old Dennis Himmelberger on Friday said the payment he made does not mean he admits guilt.

The dispute dates back two years when 93-year-old Velda Desmul moved out of a rental property. After agreeing to return her $900 security deposit during a walk-through, the woman’s daughters said he billed her $600 for cleaning.

During legal maneuvers Himmelberger was jailed for failing to follow a judge’s order that he provide financial records.

Desmul’s attorney, Gene Jarussi, said the $9,000 includes attorney fees and costs.

Himmelberger is a former Republican lawmaker who served four terms in the state House of Representatives through 2010.