The family of a North Dakota State College of Science student who became a police informant wants the North Dakota Supreme Court to reverse a district judge’s dismissal of a wrongful death lawsuit.
Andrew Sadek’s body was found in the Red River in July, 2014. He had a bullet in his head, and a backpack full of rocks tied around him. Sadek had been arrested on a drug crime, and was recruited to be a drug informant. He was reported missing May 1, 2014.
Sadek’s family claims Richland County and Sheriff’s Deputy Jason Weber did not properly train Sadek, and used threats, fraud and deceit. Attorney Tatum O’Brien told the Court Sadek could have been murdered, or committed suicide – but either way, Weber and the County are at fault.
"The only thing that's going on with Andrew Sadek at this time, the only evidence is, he's working directly with Weber," O'Brien told the Court. "And Weber tells him, 'Get the deal done by May first, or else.'"
O’Brien said an expert submitted a report claiming federal standards for informants were not followed in this case.
Attorney Corey Quinton represents the county and Weber. He told the Court there is no way to determine the facts surrounding Sadek’s death.
"The undisputed facts of this case are that we will never likely know what, when, where, how or why," Quinton said.
The High Court has taken the case under advisement. If the Court reverses the ruling, it would be remanded to the district court.
Investigators say the Sadek case is still open.