Once-fired Gary cop in trouble again
posttrib.suntimes.com

GARY — A year after the long-fought victory that returned Lindal Hairston to the Gary Police Department, he again faces disciplinary action that could cost him an unpaid suspension and loss of rank.

Hairston, of Hobart, was fired in February 2003 after a Lake Station teen complained Hairston threatened him at gunpoint during an off-duty confrontation that ended at the Lake Station Police Department.

The city settled a lawsuit Hairston filed challenging the dismissal by returning him to duty last year and agreeing to award him the rank of sergeant, even though he left as a patrolman.
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Then in January, a Gary businessman complained Hairston stopped his car early Dec. 22 outside his Glen Park business, threatened him and struck him more than once.

Russell Thomas, 50, who owns Prestige night club on Broadway, claims Hairston struck him in the head after handcuffing him, then swore at him and threatened him as he took him to the police station.

A verified complaint submitted to the Gary Police Civil Service Commission charges Hairston with violating seven commission rules, one city ordinance and one state law.

Charges include willful mistreatment, making a false report, mishandling evidence, neglect of duty and failure to comply with a proper order from a superior officer.

At this rate the new assault will get him a promotion to LT.