ELMA, Wash. (AP) — An Elma, Wash., man who opened a medical marijuana dispensary in Grays Harbor County has filed a multimillion-dollar federal claim, alleging that a male county sheriff’s deputy threatened him with jail to extort sexual favors.
The Daily World reports that Marcus Searls is seeking at least $15 million from the county and $1 million from the city of Elma. He also alleges mistreatment by an Elma officer.
Searls says he initially engaged in consensual sex with the deputy, a 24-year sheriff’s department veteran. He contends he was threatened with arrest over his marijuana activities when he tried to end the relationship.
Undersheriff Rick Scott tells KIRO-TV the deputy denies that any extortion took place. KING-TV reports the deputy is on paid administrative leave while Lewis County investigates the claim.
