OPINION: Sheriff Norris: Resign

We, the undersigned, express our deep concern over the conduct you exhibited during the February 2025 Republican Town Hall at Coeur d’Alene High School, where citizen Teresa Borrenpohl was forcibly removed.

The incident, widely reported and documented, raises serious questions about your commitment to the Constitutional rights of all Kootenai County residents, and your ability to serve impartially and professionally in your elected role.

Ms. Borrenpohl, a member of the public attending a civic forum, was singled out and violently removed by LEAR Asset Management under circumstances that appear to violate both her First Amendment rights and the standards of respectful, community-centered policing.

Rather than de-escalate the situation or ensure a safe space for public discourse, you instead played an active role in escalating violence and suppressing speech. Worse, and contrary to all video footage recorded from this event, you claimed you did not instruct associates of LEAR to remove Ms. Borrenpohl.

Your behavior undermines public trust, erodes the integrity of our Sheriff’s Office, and reflects a troubling pattern of authoritarian-style law enforcement that does not reflect the values of this county or the principles of democratic governance. Law enforcement officers are sworn to protect the rights of all individuals — especially during public proceedings. Your actions demonstrated a failure to uphold that oath.

The Sheriff, like other elected officials, is supposed to represent everyone, not just his voters. The Sheriff must not serve as private security for any political party. 

For the good of our community, and to begin the process of restoring trust in the Kootenai County Sheriff's Office, we call on you, Sheriff Bob Norris, to step down from your position. Our constituents deserve leadership committed to impartiality, transparency, accountability and the Constitution.