Former Cass County Deputy Faces 2027 Civil Trial

Lawsuit alleges sexual harassment and abuse of woman in sobriety program

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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A federal trial date has been set for October 2027 for former Cass County Deputy Darin Viken. Latisha Lenius claims Viken used his position of authority in the 24-7 sobriety program to sexually harass her, with multiple incidents of sexual intimidation, abuse, and assault between November 2023 and July 2024. Sheriff Jesse Jahner is also named in the federal lawsuit filed last November.

Why it matters

This case highlights issues of abuse of power and authority by law enforcement, as well as the challenges victims can face in seeking justice against those in positions of power. It also raises questions about oversight and accountability within county sheriff's departments.

The details

Lenius alleges that Viken, while working as a deputy overseeing the 24-7 sobriety program, used his position to sexually harass and assault her on multiple occasions over an 8-month period. Viken was terminated by Sheriff Jahner in July 2024 after admitting to harassing six women in the program, for which he received five days of home monitoring and a year of probation.

  • The alleged incidents occurred between November 2023 and July 2024.
  • Viken was terminated by Sheriff Jahner in July 2024.
  • The federal lawsuit was filed in November 2025.
  • The trial date has been set for October 2027.

The players

Darin Viken

A former Cass County deputy who is accused of sexually harassing and assaulting a woman in the 24-7 sobriety program he oversaw.

Latisha Lenius

The woman who has filed a federal lawsuit against Viken and Sheriff Jahner, alleging sexual harassment and abuse by Viken while she was in the sobriety program.

Sheriff Jesse Jahner

The Cass County sheriff who terminated Viken in July 2024 after he admitted to harassing six women in the sobriety program.

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What’s next

The judge will determine if the case can proceed to trial as scheduled in October 2027.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for stronger oversight and accountability measures within law enforcement agencies to prevent abuse of power and protect vulnerable individuals under their supervision.