Widow of slain Powell County police chief sues city, suspect

Widow of slain Powell County police chief sues city, suspect


The widow of a slain Powell County police chief is suing Clay City and the man charged with killing him.

Ruth Lacy, whose husband, Randy, was shot to death in June 2007, filed the lawsuit in Powell Circuit Court this month against the city and James Barnett, 37.

Barnett is charged with murder in Lacy's death, and prosecutors are seeking the death penalty.

The suit accuses the city of negligence, claiming that Lacy was forced to work extended hours without pay or training. It seeks unspecified damages.

Calls to Ruth Lacy's attorney, as well as the Clay City attorney and Barnett's lawyers in the criminal case, were not returned yesterday.

Because of publicity surrounding the case, Powell Circuit Judge Frank Fletcher has ordered Barnett's trial moved to Montgomery County.

Barnett's attorneys are seeking to stop prosecutors from seeking the death penalty. They contend that his IQ is below 70, which would make him ineligible for execution.

(source: Associated Press)