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By Peter Roper, The Pueblo Chieftain, Colo. |
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McClatchy-Tribune Information Services |
Oct. 30--Pueblo County government's insurance company -- County Technical Services Inc. -- will pay the $316,000 that a federal district court jury awarded to a former county sheriff's deputy, agreeing with Tommie McLallen that he was fired by Sheriff Kirk Taylor for trying to organize a union among the county deputies.
County Attorney Dan Kogovsek said the insurance company will cover whatever payment or settlement is made to McLallen.
Last Friday, the jury awarded the former sheriff's sergeant $97,000 for emotional pain and suffering, $127,000 in back pay and benefits, and $87,000 for future pay and benefits. He was fired by Taylor in 2009.
The county pays CTS $142,000 a year for an indemnity insurance policy to cover lawsuits and settlements. Kogovsek said the insurer was in charge of defending the county and Taylor against the McLallen lawsuit.
"The insurance company makes all the decisions on litigation and settlements," Kogovsek said Monday.
proper@chieftain.com
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