Henry County Sheriff Rich McNamee appeared before the Board of Supervisors this week to renew a request for outside legal counsel ahead of an upcoming Iowa Law Enforcement Academy (ILEA) hearing—calling the situation unique and unlike anything he’s encountered in his career.
“Two weeks ago, I was here asking for outside counsel,” McNamee reminded the board. “This is a unique situation. Yes, I’m being called as a witness—Current Chief Deputy Bell and retired Chief Deputy, Chad Doak, as well. But this is an Iowa Law Enforcement Academy hearing. It’s the first one I’ve heard of in my career.”
McNamee explained that the process began with a deposition in April that lasted roughly two and a half hours. At that time, he said he hadn’t realized he would not have legal representation during the proceeding, prompting his request for formal counsel moving forward.
County Attorney Darin Stater is expected to be present at the upcoming July hearing.
Chairman Marc Lindeen noted the matter warranted broader discussion and said he would direct the issue to be added to next week’s agenda. Supervisor Chad White also expressed that Supervisor Steve Detrick, who was not present, should weigh in as well.
McNamee confirmed he would return for that meeting, hoping for a decision on whether the board will authorize his request for legal representation during the ILEA process.