RICHLAND, Wash. (AP) — Voters in southeastern Washington will decide whether to remove Benton County Sheriff Jerry Hatcher from office.
A recall petition was certified Thursday by Benton County Auditor Brenda Chilton. The question whether to oust Hatcher from his elected office will be on the Aug. 3 primary election ballot.
Hatcher has accused signature gatherers of misleading citizens.
Sgt. Jason Erickson started the recall effort accusing his boss of intimidating witnesses and public servants in investigations, retaliating against them, and tampering with and destroying evidence.
The Washington State Patrol is investigating. Hatcher has denied any wrongdoing.