FARGO (KFGO-AM) - Two Richland County, ND deputies being sued for allegedly violating the civil rights of three men during a traffic stop are personally defending their actions.
Deputies Dan Wise and Steve Gjerdevig say they drew their guns and shouted at the men because they assumed the men were attempting to flee -- and possibly imposed a danger to the deputies, or the public.
In sworn affidavits filed in federal court, the deputies acknowledged using strong language and curse words during the incident, but say they felt it was necessary to get the men to cooperate. Wise and Gjerdevig say they occasionally pointed a gun at the men "until the situation calmed down," but did not physically strike them.
The lawsuit seeks unspecified damages for medical expenses, mental anguish, pain and suffering.
All charges were eventually dropped except a $15.00 speeding ticket against the driver.