ATLANTA -- A suburban Atlanta county is seeking protection from its sheriff.

Court papers filed Thursday in federal court by attorneys for Clayton County accuse Sheriff Victor Hill of objectionable actions, policies and practices.

The filing seeks to protect the county from potential legal liability and damage to its reputation as a result of Hill's actions.

The claims were made as part of a response to a lawsuit filed against Hill and the county by one of Hill's subordinates, former Chief Deputy William Cassells.

Hill abruptly fired more than two dozen sheriff's department workers in 2005.

The court filing also says that sheriff's office employees have been subjected to a hostile work environment full of discrimination and intimidation.

Hill has defended his actions, saying he inherited a dysfunctional organization.