Butte man sues county over broken arm

By The Standard Staff - 08/14/2008

A Butte man claims the police broke his arm during a 2006 arrest and is suing Butte-Silver Bow County for damages.

Ryan Maloney filed a 2-page complaint in Butte District Court last month against the county alleging police broke his arm while forcing him into a patrol car during an arrest in August 2006. Maloney is demanding a jury trial and an unspecified amount of monetary damages.

This incident allegedly happened while Maloney was arrested Aug. 12, 2006, on a suspected driving under the influence, court records said. Attorney Brendon Rohan, who is representing the county, denies in court papers filed Tuesday the allegation that police were responsible for Maloney’s injury.

Maloney is represented by attorney Monica Tranel of Butte. Tranel didn’t return a phone call Wednesday seeking comment.

Butte Sheriff John Walsh said he was aware of the allegations against the county, but wouldn’t comment on the specifics of the case since it is pending litigation.

The defense filed a motion this week requesting Maloney reveal to the county the nature and amount of damages he is seeking.

—Standard staff