HASTINGS, Mich. — Barry County Sheriff Dar Leaf, went public with his opinion on removal of Owosso barber Karl Manke's license as penalty for opening his shop in defiance of the governor's executive orders.
"The 77 year old barber was hurting financially and needed to start working." Sheriff Leaf said on his Facebook page, calling Manke "The Bootleg Barber".
The sheriff goes on to quote Michigan's constitution and U.S. codes, stating he believes the barber is in the right, based on the ruling by Shiawassee County's Courts in Manke's favor.
Leaf warns the state government of Manke's possible rights to join many in filing lawsuits against Governor Whitmer, adding that this could cost thousands in taxpayer money.
Manke is not the only Michigan business owner facing penalties for opening. One Montcalm business owner was forced to open to fulfill her insurance claim. Multiple medical facilities and patients are also suing Governor Whitmer, claiming the shutdown of non-essential care lead to life-threatening complications.
"Now it's up to the judges," Sheriff Leaf says, adding that the removal of Manke's license falls under property rights.