Matter George W. Reese v. William M. Lombard

[47 A.D.2d 327 Page 328] Petitioners are five deputy sheriffs of Monroe County. On December 28, 1973 the outgoing Sheriff promoted petitioner Sexstone to lieutenant and the other four petitioners to sergeant. In addition, a sixth employee was promoted to Assistant Chief Deputy and a seventh employee to lieutenant. Respondent Lombard became Sheriff on January 1, 1974 and he demoted the seven appointees to their former ranks. The latter two accepted that demotion. The five petitioners seek reinstatement and back pay. Various other county officials are joined with Sheriff Lombard as respondents but they do not contest petitioners' claims.