Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office sued after on-duty deputy allegedly causes accident

GRETNA – A local law enforcement agency is being sued by a woman who claims she was injured in a car accident caused by an on-duty deputy.

Karen Angerdina, and husband Sal, filed suit against Westley West, Newell D. Normand, individually and in his capacity as Chief of Police and Sheriff of Jefferson Parish in the 24th Judicial District Court on Aug. 22.

Karen Angerdina claims she was driving east on Jefferson Highway in River Ridge on Aug. 31, 2012 when West, in his capacity as an on-duty deputy and driving a Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office vehicle, turned left directly in front of her causing her car to strike his. The plaintiff alleges that she sustained painful and serious injuries and property and economic damages.

The defendant is accused of failing to maintain control of vehicle, failing to keep a proper lookout, driving in a careless and reckless manner, failing to see what should have been seen, failing to keep a proper distance between the vehicles and executing an illegal and improper left turn from the right travel lane.

An unspecified amount in damages is sought for pain and suffering, permanent damage, loss of enjoyment of life, medical expenses, property damage loss of consortium and economic damages.

The Angerdinas are represented by attorney Pierre F. Gaudin of Gretna.

The case has been assigned to Division L Judge Donald A. Rowan.

Case no. 730-227.