Fired Prineville Police manager sues city, former chief Larry Seymour for $1.5 million, alleges illegal conduct

(Update: Adding city statement on lawsuit)

PRINEVILLE, Ore. (KTVZ) -- A recently fired administrative services manager for the Prineville Police Department filed a $1.5 million lawsuit Friday against against the city and former police chief Larry Seymour, who recently resigned after a months-long investigation. Nikki Hepworth alleges she was forced out for reporting illegal discrimination against and harassment of an officer.

In her lawsuit, Hepworth claims the city and Seymour retaliated against her and pushed her out after she reported illegal conduct by Seymour and former Captain Rob Gray, who also resigned after the investigation.

The city has been mum about the reasons for the investigation and the pair's recent departure, but a news release sent by Hepworth's Eugene attorney, Jennifer Middleton, claims "Seymour and Gray were placed on administrative leave in July 2023 as a result of the City’s investigation into Hepworth’s reports, and they both resigned last month after negotiations with the City."

Hepworth alleges in her lawsuit that she reported to City Manager Steve Forrester that Chief Seymour and Captain Gray were harassing and demeaning a police officer, Lindsay Ward, who was on light duty due to an injury sustained in a use of force incident.

"Discriminating against someone because of their use of the workers compensation system is unlawful in Oregon," states the news release, which continues in full below:

"As soon as Hepworth blew the whistle, both the Chief and the City Manager retaliated by pushing Hepworth to resign. Hepworth persisted and demanded that the City investigate Chief Seymour.

"An independent investigator hired by the City to look into Hepworth’s report found evidence that Chief Seymour and Captain Gray were both “untruthful.” The City placed both on administrative leave and later negotiated resignations for them. After the two resigned, the City terminated Hepworth.

Hepworth said, “No one should have to fear harassment and retaliation when coming forward and doing the right thing for the right reason.”

She is seeking $1.5 million in damages. A copy of her complaint, filed Friday in Crook County Circuit Court, is attached.

We reached out to the city immediately for comment, and here is the city's statement:

"The City is aware of the allegations raised in the lawsuit and will be addressing them in accordance with the legal process. The City does not comment on pending litigation.

"The City of Prineville would like to thank the community for its patience over the previous months as we conducted thorough investigations regarding the Prineville Police Department concerning internal operations.

"While the City cannot currently disclose specific details about these investigations, we are focused on creating and maintaining a professional workplace conducive to the well-being of all employees while prioritizing the safety and well-being of the community.

"In early January, the City retained Jim Band, a respected leader in law enforcement with an impressive 25-year career, including 10 years as a police chief in Oregon (City). Mr. Band is actively involved in reviewing the Police Department's policies and protocols, providing suggestions for improvement, and contributing to assessing areas where positive changes can be made. Additionally, he will play an active role in the search for a new police chief to lead the department."