RICHLAND, Wash. (AP) — Voters in a county in southeastern Washington will decide whether to remove Benton County Sheriff Jerry Hatcher from office. The Tri-City Herald reports 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 told the Tri-City Herald that he supports and accepts the will of the people, but 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.
Sheriff recall effort collects enough signatures for ballot
