Sobriety program sexual harassment victim sues former deputy, sheriff, Cass County in federal court

Federal Lawsuit Against Former Deputy and County Officials

A woman who participated in a Cass County sobriety program has filed a federal lawsuit against former deputy Darin Viken, Sheriff Jesse Jahner, and Cass County. The complaint describes Viken as a "sexual predator" who subjected the plaintiff to repeated sexual intimidation, abuse, and assault.

Allegations and Legal Claims

According to the lawsuit, the assaults occurred while the plaintiff was required to report to the sobriety program under supervision. The suit asserts that Viken misused his position to manipulate and threaten the woman, violating her civil rights. It also accuses the sheriff and county of negligence, claiming they failed to act despite reported warning signs about Viken’s conduct.

Institutional Responsibility

Court documents reportedly state that Cass County officials either ignored or inadequately addressed earlier complaints, allowing Viken to maintain access to vulnerable participants. The plaintiff seeks compensatory and punitive damages for trauma, emotional distress, and violations of constitutional protections.

Case Status

The case has been filed in U.S. District Court for North Dakota. As of the complaint’s filing, neither Cass County nor Sheriff Jahner had publicly commented on the allegations. No criminal charges related to this case have yet been announced.

“The complaint calls Darin Viken a ‘sexual predator’ who inflicted sexual intimidation, abuse, and assault on the plaintiff.”

Author’s summary: A woman from Cass County accused a former deputy of sexual abuse and sued both the sheriff and county for neglecting warnings and failing to protect her rights.

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InForum InForum — 2025-11-26

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