BELLINGHAM, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – A new lawsuit against the City of Bellingham and a number of city employees claims the city illegally seized and destroyed a motorhome.

According to the complaint, plaintiffs Jerry and Terri-Lynn Land were living in their motorhome and had been for several years before it was seized in 2023.

The suit claims that the Land’s motorhome was declared a so-called “junk vehicle” by city employees who failed to check on its operability.

The Lands claim they had no opportunity to contest the declaration, which allowed the city to tow and destroy the motorhome immediately from its location on Stuart Road.

According to court documents, Mr. Land is a disabled Army veteran who requires supplemental oxygen at all times. The couple claims Mr. Land’s oxygen equipment was also removed, leaving his life in danger, when the vehicle was destroyed for scrap.

The suit adds that when the Lands were first notified of the impending removal, police refused to allow them to move the vehicle and instead suggested moving into a motel or shelter.

The couple argues the city violated due process of law by not allowing them time to consult an attorney.

The Lands are seeking damages for their lost property and violation of their constitutional rights in the active lawsuit.