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Friday, March 29, 2024

Mercer County law officer sues Mercer Wrecker Service, alleging slander

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PRINCETON—A Mercer County deputy sheriff is suing an automotive business and its principal, alleging extreme and outrageous conduct, libel, and slander, which he says damaged his reputation.

John D. Gills of Rock filed a lawsuit Aug. 24 in Mercer Circuit Court against Michael Roles Sr. and Mercer Wrecker Service Inc. of Princeton, alleging deliberate, disruptive and defamatory public statements beginning in March.

The suit states Roles exploited his towing company business position to promote an agenda against Gills, posting flyers with photographs of the plaintiff and making derogatory statements about the deputy sheriff’s professional activities.

According to the complaint, Roles habitually frequented public places such as the supermarket, 911 center and fire department, stating Gills was a “dirty deputy,” warning citizens to “beware” and threatening to sue the plaintiff.

The plaintiff says Roles interfered with his job and alleges intentional infliction of emotional distress, humiliation, embarrassment and loss of dignity. The suit states he obtained a restraining order against the defendant June 15.

Gills seeks injunctive action for a permanent restraining order and public apology along with compensatory and punitive damages, pre- and post-judgment interest, attorney fees and costs. He is represented by attorney David Moye of Winfield. The case has been assigned to Circuit Judge Omar J. Aboulhosn.

Mercer Circuit Court case number 15-C-303-OA.

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