SOUTH BEND - Superior Court Judge Christopher Wickham summarily dismissed James O'Hagan's lawsuit against Pacific County Prosecutor Mark McClain. O'Hagan claimed McClain's use of O'Hagan's booking photo alerting staff to the potentially dangerous O'Hagan constituted defamation. The action took place last Wednesday.
"When we were alerted by the Washington State Attorney General's Office and the Bar Association that Mr. O'Hagan's conduct caused them alarm and they wanted to warn us, I felt the least I could do was ensure our employees were aware of who he was and ensure they did not mistakenly let him into the office," Pacific County Prosecutor Mark McClain told the Herald.
"Obviously, this kind of security measure is done all over the country and it is unfortunate Mr. O'Hagan's rhetoric and approach has caused such widespread concern," McClain added. "I did what anyone in my position would have done and I appreciate that the case was dismissed, but I had no doubt that would be the result."
O'Hagan, a former candidate for a 19th Legislative District House seat, is currently facing theft-related felony charges stemming from a property dispute.