Lawsuit accuses Hildale officials of misconduct, retaliation

Two former city officials in Hildale have filed a $20 million lawsuit against the city and several of its leaders, claiming they were forced out of their jobs after raising concerns about cor­ruption and a hostile work environment.

A daytime view of Hildale, Utah, via Wikimedia Commons.

According to a report from KSL.com, former City Man­ager Eric Duthie and for­mer City Recorder Sirrene Barlow filed the complaint in Washington County District Court on July 26. The lawsuit names Mayor Donia Jessop, City Council member Jvar Dutson and City Attorney Shawn Guz­man as defendants.

The complaint alleges that city officials engaged in unethical and potentially illegal behavior, including self-dealing through no-bid contracts and misuse of public office to benefit friends or associates. Duth­ie and Barlow claim they were retaliated against for calling attention to these practices.

KSL reports that the lawsuit describes “a toxic workplace environment” in which city leaders ignored or contributed to harass­ment and intimidation. The suit also references dealings that extend into St. George, suggesting the impact of the alleged misconduct may go beyond Hildale’s borders.

As of July 31, no official response has been issued by the city or the individuals named in the lawsuit, according to St. George News.

The case comes as Hil­dale continues efforts to reestablish public trust and institutional stability fol­lowing decades of control by leaders tied to the Funda­mentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The lawsuit claims that transparency and account­ability remain elusive.

Both Duthie and Barlow are seeking a combined $20.25 million in damages. The court filing demands a jury trial.

KSL.com first reported the story on July 26, 2025. Additional details were confirmed by St. George News and filings made in Washington County Dis­trict Court.