Sheriff Everhart Discusses Qualified Immunity at Kenton Lions Club October Meeting

The Kenton Lions Club held its regular meeting on Wednesday, Oct. 1st, at the Kenton Elks.  The meeting was called to order at 6:26 pm by Lion President Brad Bailey with 19 members and 1 guest present. 

Guest Speaker for the evening was Hardin County Sheriff Keith Everhart, who spoke to members about governmental immunity.  He said that there is a “movement” by certain groups in Ohio to have a vote to amend Ohio’s Constitution to eliminate “Qualified Immunity”. 

Sheriff Everhart explained that Qualified Immunity protects employees of any governmental agency or volunteers of non-profit groups that are affiliated with a government agency from personal lawsuits, if those individuals follow the policies, procedures and the law in dealing with the public.  He added, for example, Sheriff Deputies or Police Officers can still be held accountable for actions not within the policies and procedures set by Law Enforcement Agencies. 

He pointed out that proponents in favor of the constitution change will promote it as a way to keep police officers from “doing whatever” they want.  However, Sheriff Everhart noted that the elimination of the Qualified Immunity will make it even more difficult to get more people in Law Enforcement Jobs or Fire and Rescue.  He emphasized that Law Enforcement is not above the law and officers and deputies are held accountable and can be fired if laws, policies and procedures are broken.

Lion President Brad read a thank you from the Hardin County Agricultural Society – Junior Fair Board for our donation towards ribbons and awards.

Lion Jack Elsasser moved to accept the treasurer and secretary’s reports.  After a 2nd by Lion Jason, members voted.  Motion Passed. 

Roadside Clean-up – Lion Bill Keller set the date of Oct. 12th at 2:00 behind Hillcrest Lanes. 

Christmas Parade, Nov. 25th:  Lion Judd Robinson sent emails to all the bands asking for their participation.

Submitted by Lion Rick Collins