Othello Community Hospital sued

Former employee claims wrongful termination

OTHELLO — A former Othello Community Hospital employee is suing the hospital for wrongful termination, according to documents filed in Adams County Superior Court on Aug. 25.

The hospital's board of commissioners planned to discuss the lawsuit in executive session today.

Former employee Sue Hobler-Inks audited Harry Geller, hospital administrator, in connection with her job duties, the lawsuit claims. At the time, Inks was working on a campaign for Bob Carlson, who sought a position on the board of commissioners, presenting a conflict of interest. The auditing activities "reflected poorly on Geller," according to the plaintiff's court documents.

"Inks participated in whistleblowing activities because of the conduct of Geller and hospital administration," the plaintiff alleged in the lawsuit. "In retaliation against her by Geller and the Hospital, Inks suffered an adverse employment action and was terminated."

The lawsuit claims her First Amendment rights to freedom of association and freedom of speech were violated. The lawsuit also alleges Hobler-Inks suffered economic damages.

— Staff report