A judge has dismissed one count in a federal lawsuit by a former Sophia police officer who says he was fired because he’s black.
U.S. District Judge Irene Berger says Damon McDowell failed to prove his former boss deliberately spoiled evidence.
She says McDowell lacks the hard evidence to support his claim. Berger also says that altering a document with a handwritten note isn’t the same as destroying evidence.
Attorney Maria Hughes said Wednesday she will file a motion for reconsideration. Hughes says the underlying case is “very much alive,” with depositions under way.
Police Chief Tomi Peck says she fired McDowell after he left a Beckley restaurant without paying his bill.
McDowell claims he’s the victim of racial harassment and a conspiracy cooked up to force him to resign.
Local News
Judge dismisses one count in ex-cop's suit
- Local News
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Raleigh officials consider creating juvenile drug court
With drug addiction starting at a younger and younger age, officials from the West Virginia Division of Probation Services are encouraging Raleigh County leaders to establish a Juvenile Drug Court to help deter the number of youth addicts.
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Beckley to celebrate Founder's Day
The Raleigh County Historical Society will celebrate Gen. Alfred Beckley’s life during the fifth annual Founder’s Day celebration Sunday at 1 p.m. at Wildwood House Museum.
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Fayette County wreck claims one man's life
An unidentified man was killed Tuesday and a Fayette County man was injured in a crash on W.Va. 61 in Fayette County.
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Search underway for missing Beckley inmate
West Virginia State Police were searching Tuesday afternoon for a man who escaped from Beckley Correctional Facility Monday night.
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Commission moves to replace administrator
Another step was taken Tuesday in quest of a new Raleigh County administrator to succeed the ailing John Humphrey.
- Vehicle accident leads to arrest of intoxicated driver
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Coots named Raleigh 2013 Teacher of the Year
For her “superior ability to inspire love of learning in students of all backgrounds and abilities,” the Raleigh County Board of Education recognized Independence Middle School teacher Natalie Coots as the 2013 Teacher of the Year Tuesday evening.
- Community calendar — Wednesday, May 22, 2013
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Students barred from grad ceremony
About 20 Wayne High School students are barred from the school’s graduation ceremony because of a senior prank that damaged the building.
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