Accused Cook Co. jail guard sues

A former Cook County jail guard implicated in the escape of six inmates in 2006 has filed a lawsuit against the county and several jail officials, saying they falsely implicated him in the escape.

Darin Gater alleges in the lawsuit that sheriff's office investigators denied him food, sleep and an attorney as they questioned him over a three-day period after the escape. He is seeking unspecified damages for false arrest, malicious prosecution and other claims, according to the lawsuit.

According to prosecutors, Gater handcuffed himself to make it look as if he had been overpowered, then turned over his uniform, boots, ID, keys and radio. The inmates used the gear to open doors and bluff or bully their way out.

All six inmates were captured; the last two giving themselves up after authorities surrounded the apartment in which they were hiding. Gater is awaiting trial on official misconduct, escape, aggravated battery and other charges in connection with the jail break on Feb. 11, 2006. He has pleaded not guilty.