Legion case appears headed to court

POST FALLS - It appears that a lawsuit alleging Post Falls American Legion officers haven't maintained open books, wrongfully suspended some members and ran an illegal election is headed to court.

In a prepared statement issued on Friday, Commander John Dunlap said the issue will not be mediated and denied any wrongdoing.

"The issues that have been put forth are unfounded, which will be addressed in a forthcoming response to the court regarding their claims," Dunlap wrote. "I want the membership to know that I will not be contesting this matter in the media, but rather will be responding to the complaint with legal counsel and due process."

Dunlap hasn't commented on the suit, based on advice from attorneys, until Friday.

The complaint filed in June in First District Court names 15 members as plaintiffs, which Dunlap calls a "small and disgruntled group."

The plaintiffs said they are unsure if there has been unwise spending at the organization, but when they aren't shown the financials it raises a red flag. They also allege that the election in April lacked oversight.

Post Falls has the largest American Legion post in the state with more than 600 members. It will host the state convention starting on Friday.