(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — A former employee has filed a federal lawsuit against Lake County Coroner Jennifer Banek for allegedly putting him on a “do not hire” list — all because of a dog.
The dispute goes back a few years. After Banek defeated then-Coroner Howard Cooper in the 2020 election, Jason Patt retired from his role as chief deputy coroner. He brought the office K9, Bones, with him.
In a lawsuit filed last week, Patt said Banek was furious over Bones’ retirement.
“Bones spent every hour of the day with Jason, went with him on all assignments and also stayed at his house,” said attorney Paul Vickrey, who represents Patt. “The dog became very attached to my client.”
Vickrey told WBBM that Patt tried to spend less time with the dog, so as to ease any transition.
“Unfortunately, that didn’t work out so well,” Vickrey said. “The dog became very stressed and engaged in destructive behavior.”
Bones was diagnosed with separation anxiety, and according to the lawsuit, that diagnosis led the State’s Attorney’s Office to side with Patt in refusing to return the dog.
WBBM has reached out to Banek’s office for comment.
It took a Freedom of Information Request, Patt claims, to learn that Banek made deliberate and false statements about him to potential employers, including that he often didn’t show up to work, had affairs and general problems with conduct.
“We believe it’s completely wrong that his career path would be derailed by vindictiveness,” Vickrey said.
The suit seeks compensation, punitive damages and to restore Patt’s reputation.
Related
Related
Listen to WBBM Newsradio now on Audacy!
Sign up and follow WBBM Newsradio
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram