The Hutchinson News is reporting that Michele White, of New Braunfels, Texas, filed the federal lawsuit last week in U.S. District Court in Topeka, acting as her own attorney. The suit centers on a July 2024 traffic stop by Jackson County Deputy Kyle Scott on U.S. 75 Highway near 179th Road, within the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation reservation.
According to the report, White's complaint alleges Scott had no reasonable suspicion to pull her over, then arrested her in connection with driving under the influence after she passed a breathalyzer test with no alcohol present. The complaint further alleges that while White was handcuffed in the patrol car, Scott intentionally brushed his arm against her breast rather than have a female officer assist her.
A urine test later showed no illegal substances in White's system. Two charges filed against her were dismissed in May 2025 after a magistrate judge ruled Scott's stop had violated her rights.
The lawsuit names Jackson County, Sheriff Timothy Morse, Scott, and Assistant County Attorney Amy Medeiros, along with two additional deputies added as defendants this month.
White is seeking $3 million in punitive damages and $2.5 million in actual and compensatory damages.
