Rel v. Douglas County Civil Service Commission

The Douglas County Civil Service Commission appeals from a judgment reinstating Manuel Rel as sergeant in the county sheriff's department.

*765The question is whether the court properly applied the doctrine of equitable estoppel in returning Mr. Rel to the position he held for more than 3 years without complying with the requirements of RCW 41.14.080.1

The court found Mr. Rel was appointed as sergeant in April 1972, when the sheriff determined there was a need to delegate authority within his department. No examination was given, as was the custom in adjoining counties. The court further found…