Constable Accused of Sexual Harassment

TYLER — A Smith County constable is accused of sexual harassment. Precinct 5 Constable Dennis Taylor allegedly harassed a deputy and then fired her when his advances were reportedly refused. According to KETK, a 12-page complaint was filed in U.S. District Court in Tyler. Deputy Wendy Savering was hired in 2005 by Taylor and was soon assigned to the post of school resource officer for the Lindale ISD. She was named Officer of the Year in 2007 and was officially recognized by the school district in 2010 for her work.

The complaint alleges that when her divorce was finalized in December 2008, within three days, Taylor asked her out. Savering alleges that when it became clear that she was not interested in a relationship, Taylor began criticizing her work. Savering also claims that when an initial suit for harassment was filed, she was fired. Savering’s attorney claims, “When she refused to date Constable Taylor, he made her life — work life — as miserable as he could and ultimately terminated her. My client is seeking reinstatement; she would like to have her job back.” Repeated phone calls from KETK to Taylor’s lawyer were not returned. The case is set for mediation in November.