Stanton County Sheriff Calls Federal Lawsuit 'Frivolous' and 'Unfounded'

Sheriff Mike Unger denies allegations of misconduct and abuse of power ahead of upcoming primary election

Apr. 9, 2026 at 12:51am

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An extreme close-up of a sheriff's badge reflecting a harsh, direct flash of light, creating a stark, gritty visual that conceptually represents the investigative nature of the allegations against the Stanton County Sheriff's Office.A federal lawsuit alleges misconduct and abuse of power within the Stanton County Sheriff's Office, raising questions about the integrity of local law enforcement leadership.Stanton Today

A federal lawsuit has been filed against Stanton County Sheriff Mike Unger, Chief Deputy Aaron Kleensang, and Stanton County itself, with the plaintiff accusing Unger and Kleensang of abusing their positions at the sheriff's office and endangering lives. Unger has called the lawsuit 'frivolous, unfounded and political,' denying claims that he plans to become a deputy under Kleensang if he is elected as the next sheriff.

Why it matters

The lawsuit raises serious allegations of misconduct and abuse of power against the long-serving Stanton County Sheriff, just weeks before a primary election where Kleensang, a current deputy, is running to succeed Unger. The outcome of this lawsuit and the election could have significant implications for the leadership and operations of the Stanton County Sheriff's Office.

The details

The lawsuit, filed by Matthew Heimann, a local grain farmer, claims that Unger and Kleensang have misused county resources to further Kleensang's campaign for sheriff, including the use of a county building, official uniforms and badges. It also alleges that Unger has exploited an emergency medical services stipend program to 'enrich himself' by inserting himself into calls to receive the stipend. Additionally, the lawsuit claims Unger's actions have degraded the county's emergency response capabilities and forced volunteer EMTs to leave the Stanton Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department.

  • The lawsuit was filed in federal court on Tuesday, April 7, 2026.
  • The primary election for the Stanton County Sheriff position is scheduled for May 12, 2026.

The players

Sheriff Mike Unger

The long-serving Stanton County Sheriff who has been in office for over 30 years and is not seeking re-election.

Chief Deputy Aaron Kleensang

A current member of the Stanton County Sheriff's Office who is running to succeed Unger as the next Stanton County Sheriff.

Matthew Heimann

A local grain farmer in Stanton County who is the plaintiff in the federal lawsuit against Unger, Kleensang, and Stanton County.

Pascal Vantilborgh

A current or former member of the Stanton County Sheriff's Office who is also running for the sheriff position.

Tyler Evans

A current or former member of the Stanton County Sheriff's Office who is also running for the sheriff position.

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What they’re saying

“Just today, a Stanton citizen told one of my deputies we need to get off the highways and the drugs on Hwy 275 are just passing through and not our problem. He further stated we should just go to games and events where we are seen. Well, Mr. Citizen, I hope none of your three children are ever hit by a drunk or drug-impaired driver. In Stanton County, we will continue to do our sworn job as long as I'm the sheriff.”

— Sheriff Mike Unger

What’s next

The judge in the federal lawsuit will determine whether to allow the case to proceed to a jury trial, where the plaintiff is seeking compensatory and punitive damages, as well as the repayment of any allegedly misused funds.

The takeaway

This lawsuit highlights the contentious political dynamics within the Stanton County Sheriff's Office, with allegations of misconduct and abuse of power just weeks before a primary election that will determine the next sheriff. The outcome could have significant implications for the leadership and operations of the department, as well as public trust in local law enforcement.