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Lear Asset Management Officers Accused of Assaulting Attendees, Dragging Woman from Event
Police in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho have recommended multiple criminal charges against five private security guards who forcibly removed a woman from a public political event earlier this year. The incident, which drew national attention after video footage of the altercation went viral, occurred at a Kootenai County Republican Central Committee town hall held at Coeur d’Alene High School in February.
According to police reports released this week, the guards—contracted by California-based private security firm Lear Asset Management—were not wearing uniforms or badges that identified them as security personnel, violating city regulations. The footage shows the guards dragging Teresa Borrenpohl across the floor by her arms and legs after she shouted critical comments during the event. Police say these actions may constitute battery and false imprisonment.
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The guards involved have been identified as Paul Trouette, Alexander Trouette, Christofer Berg, Russell Dunne, and Jesse Jones. All five are considered suspects in the incident. A sixth person, Michael Keller, who was not employed by Lear but helped remove Borrenpohl, also faces charges for battery and for allegedly bringing a firearm onto school grounds.
What Led to the Altercation
The incident began when Borrenpohl, seated in the audience, loudly interrupted the event by asking, “Is this a town hall or a lecture?” Her question came as several lawmakers were speaking. Sheriff Bob Norris, who was attending the event, then approached Borrenpohl and told her to leave or be removed. When she refused, Norris physically grabbed her arm in an attempt to pull her from her chair.
Video shows Borrenpohl saying, “Please don’t touch me,” to which Norris responded, “Do you want pepper spray? Let’s go,” before signaling to the private security guards. The men, dressed in black jackets and tactical-style pants with no identifying markings, then advanced on Borrenpohl. As Norris stood by with his phone in hand, the guards pulled her to the floor and dragged her toward the exit while she screamed, “Who are these men?” and “Who are these guys?” at the surrounding attendees.
Police say several other individuals sitting near Borrenpohl were also touched or restrained by the guards. None of the men identified themselves, and none wore visible credentials, raising questions about the legality of their actions and their presence at a public event on school property.
Legal Fallout and Ongoing Investigations
Police have recommended that multiple charges be filed against the Lear Asset Management security team, including battery and false imprisonment. Alexander Trouette is the only individual listed as an accessory rather than a direct participant, as no video evidence shows him physically engaging with attendees.
Michael Keller, who intervened and pushed Borrenpohl’s friend during the commotion, also faces potential battery charges, as well as a weapons charge for allegedly carrying a firearm on school grounds.
Meanwhile, Sheriff Bob Norris is not considered a suspect in the case, though he is listed as an “involved party.” Investigators say Norris declined to be interviewed and is currently under review by an unnamed agency to determine whether he violated any official policies during the incident. His attorney, Kinzo Mihara, has not commented on the investigation.
Deputy Prosecutor Ryan Hunter confirmed that he received the full police investigation report and is currently reviewing the case. No timeline has been given for when formal charges might be filed.
Security Violations and City Response
One of the most concerning elements of the incident, according to investigators, was that none of the Lear Asset Management guards were identifiable as security. Coeur d’Alene city code requires that private security officers wear clearly marked uniforms and badges while performing duties. Because of this violation, the city has revoked Lear’s license to operate within its limits.
The incident has raised broader questions about the role of private security at public political events and the potential for escalation when untrained or unaccountable individuals take enforcement actions. Lear Asset Management, founded in 2012 and previously known for participating in high-profile marijuana grow raids in California, has not responded to media requests for comment.
Public Reaction and Next Steps
Footage of the altercation sparked outrage online and within the local community, prompting protests and renewed calls for accountability from elected officials and law enforcement agencies. Civil rights advocates have criticized the use of unmarked private security at a public event and questioned whether proper training or oversight was in place.
The town hall, which was intended to be a discussion between citizens and elected representatives, ended in chaos, leaving residents unsettled and demanding answers. With charges still pending and an internal investigation underway, community leaders are watching closely to see how the city responds—and whether anyone will be held legally accountable for what took place that night.
