Sheriff Norris revokes cross-deputization of Cd’A, Rathdrum police chiefs

COEUR d’ALENE — Kootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris has revoked the special deputy status of Coeur d’Alene Police Chief Lee White, Capt. Dave Hagar and Rathdrum Police Chief Daniel Haley, according to public records obtained by The Press.

White alleges Norris revoked the status of the three officers because of their involvement in an investigation into Norris’ actions during the Feb. 22 legislative town hall, where the sheriff tried to pull a woman from her seat and then directed security personnel to remove her from the Coeur d’Alene High School auditorium. 

In Idaho, peace officers have policing authority only within their political subdivisions, with some exceptions. County sheriffs can cross-deputize peace officers from other agencies, granting them authority to operate throughout the county. 

“It sounds like the sheriff did this because apparently he was mad that he was listed as a suspect in the town hall report, even though that’s not factual at all,” White told The Press Wednesday night.  

Whether other Coeur d’Alene and Rathdrum police officers retain their cross-deputation is unclear, White said.  

This is a developing story.