TGTBTM Sheriff's Badge and Death

[SonicFan]

I have searched the FAQ and forums, and do not locate answers tot these questions. Sorry in advanced if I missed them.

Game situation: In a game of TGTBTM, I have the Sheriff's Badge and am at Level 9, and entering combat. Other players players cards to where I alone cannot defeat the monster for the win. I want to use the Sheriff's Badge ability to force one of players wearing the Deputy's Badge to help me to win the combat and thus the game.


Two questions:

1) Since it is not the deputy's turn, he cannot discard the Deputy's Badge or "un-wear" it to avoid helping me, correct? [Since it is not his turn, he cannot change his equipment being used.] (Answer taken based on previous thread here. and here)

2) Once I force the deputy to help me, the deputy says "I declare my munchkin character dead." Is this legal? Can you declare yourself dead to avoid helping someone, or simply to get a new hand of cards on your next turn?

Thank you!