Ex-cop files lawsuit to get job back

PERU, Ind. (WISH) - A former Peru police officer who was fired after using a stun gun on a nursing home resident with advance-stage Alzheimer's disease has filed an appeal to get his job back.

Our partners at the Kokomo Tribune say Gregory Martin was terminated in August after the nursing home incident in June.

Officials say Martin used a stun gun on 64-year-old James Howard five times, four of those being while he was on the ground. Officers say Howard was combative and would not obey their commands to get onto a stretcher at Miller's Merry Manor.

Peru Police Chief Steve Hoover recommended Martin be terminated after a two-week investigation of the incident. Hoover says Martin violated department code. The board listened to two days of testimony during the hearing before deciding to fire Martin.

Martin filed an appeal with Miami Superior Court 1 last month, claiming the findings were erroneous. According to court documents, Martin believes the court should reverse the board's decision and award back pay, wages, and benefits since he was fired.

A court date is currently pending.