JAILER RESIGNS AFTER HE FAILED DRUG SCREENING

A Cape Girardeau County Sheriff's deputy resigned Wednesday after being suspended for failure to pass a drug screening.

Sheriff John Jordan said the deputy, a jailer, was suspended indefinitely Tuesday. The deputy then resigned Wednesday afternoon.

Jordan declined to identify the jailer, but the Southeast Missourian learned he is Adam Young. Young had been with the department since 1993.

Jordan said that after a reliable source informed him of possible substance abuse by the deputy, the sheriff ordered the deputy submit to a drug screening.

The deputy agreed. When results from the test returned positive, a second test was ordered. The results from that screening, which was more reliable, also showed positive for use of a controlled substance.

Young has consulted with attorney Allen Moss, who said Young is considering filing a federal suit against the department on privacy grounds.

The Cape County Sheriff's Department doesn't have a written policy concerning drug testing.

Jordan said a St. Louis firm is drafting a policy for the department. He added that federal law requires businesses and agencies whose employees respond to emergencies to have drug screening policies by Jan. 1.

Jordan said he isn't aware of any potential legal challenge, but added the department will fight any that arise.

"Any employee who works here has got to remember they are 'at will' employees," Jordan said. "They serve at the will and pleasure of the sheriff."