LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — A 25-year veteran with the Nebraska State Patrol is suing the agency and its new leader, accusing Col. Brad Rice of torpedoing his career over a long-held grudge.

Trooper Todd Steckelberg, of Elkhorn, is seeking damages for lost wages and damage to his reputation. He says Rice still holds a grudge over a complaint Steckelberg filed against him years ago.

Steckelberg says Rice recently kept him from being transferred to the governor’s protection detail, even though he was the most qualified candidate.

Rice came under fire after Gov. Pete Ricketts nominated him earlier this year to lead the agency. Rice served on an interview panel that denied several promotions to a female sergeant, who successfully sued for gender discrimination.