Who is Kootenai County Idaho Sheriff, Robert (Bob) Norris?
Controversy
Traffic stop pepper spray incident
In Norris's first month as the Kootenai County Sheriff, a viral video showed him pulling out pepper spray while talking to a man who was recording a traffic stop.[10] The video showed Brad Nelson, a citizen of Kootenai County, asking questions regarding a traffic stop. After Nelson got close enough so a Sheriff Lieutenant and Norris could hear his questions, Norris approached Nelson and asked him to step back. Nelson was apprehensive and told Norris to, "Shut the fuck up and get back to work."[11] Norris stepped closer, threatening to use his pepper spray, which ended the confrontation.
Norris later issued a press release in the Coeur d'Alene Press, stating, "The idea of local citizens using their video cameras with the intention of harassing our officers and interfering with their duties, only to later portray us online as if we were in the wrong, contributes to this national disgrace."[12]
COVID-19 pandemic
During the COVID-19 pandemic, he released multiple press statements saying that he would not enforce COVID-19 guidelines or mask mandates.[13][14]
Unauthorized removal of books
In 2023, Norris claimed that books with explicit sexual content were available to teenagers in local libraries, specifically citing the books Deal With It! A Whole New Approach to Your Body, Brain, and Life as a Gurl and Identical.[15] Norris argued that these books generally violated Idaho state law and should be placed in an area for adult library patrons only.[16]
Norris's unauthorized removal of two books and his refusal to return them drew public attention to the county.[17][18] Under Idaho Code §18-2403, theft includes knowingly taking or exercising unauthorized control over property with the intent to deprive the owner of its use or benefit.[19] The Community Library Network (CLN), which operates the Post Falls library, defended the books following Norris's actions, noting that they are classified as young adult non-fiction. CLN also clarified that minors require parental or legal guardianpermission to sign up for a library card.[20]
The CLN had and continues to have a process in place for people to request that the library reconsider the materials it makes available to youth.[21]
Removal of Constituent
On Saturday, February 22, 2025, video shows Sheriff Norris attempting to remove a constituent from a public meeting. When Norris fails, he directs two men to drag the woman out. She repeatedly screams “who are these men?” The speaker’s and Sheriff's issue with the attendee seemed to relate to verbal remarks, not physical or safety or concerns.[30]
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