Teising fights to keep lawyer in $820K backpay, defamation lawsuit against Wabash Township

In court Monday, former trustee also looks to oust a township attorney from case. Plus, more redistricting drama unfolds.

• Support for today’s edition comes from Bharatiya Temple & Cultural Center of Greater Lafayette, hosting another year of its India Food Fest on Saturday, Aug. 23. Spend the evening taking a culinary journey across India trying out a variety of dishes. There is everything from street food to fusion to drinks and desserts. Entry to the event is free and food dishes range from only $3 to $8. The event begins at 5 p.m. and goes until sold out of food. To see a full menu and purchase pre-sale ticket packages visit www.indiafest.btccgl.org.

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TEISING FIGHTS TO KEEP LAWYER IN $820K BACKPAY, DEFAMATION LAWSUIT AGAINST WABASH TOWNSHIP

Appearing in the courtroom via a Zoom video call Monday morning, Jennifer Teising, ousted Wabash Township trustee, argued that her attorney shouldn’t be allowed to bail on her lawsuit accusing township officials of defamation and conspiracy, as she seeks as much as $820,000 in backpay three years after she was forced out.

Teising also told Tippecanoe Circuit Court Sean Persin she planned to file a formal complaint to remove an attorney Wabash Township officials initially brought into the civil case, saying her connections after hiring him several years ago during her tumultuous time as trustee posed ethical conflicts.

Jennifer Teising, appearing via Zoom during a 2021 Wabash Township Board meeting. (File photo: Dave Bangert)

Thomas Little, a Frankfort-based attorney, filed notice in July that he intended to withdraw as Teising’s attorney in the civil case against Wabash Township. Little didn’t offer a reason in his filing with the court.

On Monday, Teising told Persin that Little was trying to protect himself and his firm from potential malpractice allegations he received after filing the complaint against Wabash Township elected and appointed officials. Teising said Little understood her case and that she didn’t want to start from scratch, if she didn’t have to.