Veteran Police Officer Sues City of Elgin

 Posted on February 08,2013 in Employment Discrimination

Workers have the protection of local, state and federal laws outlawing discrimination in the workplace.  That covers any protected status such as race, age, physical ability, sexual orientation, religious beliefs and others.  There are different ways that discrimination can be noticed.  Discrimination can be present in many aspects of work, including the hiring and firing process, promotions, work assignments and compensation.

Most recently, a 16 year veteran of the Elgin police department has initiated legal action against his employer and two coworkers.  Phillipp D. Brown claimed in his federal lawsuit that there is a racist culture which exists in his workplace.  There was no discipline for the use of racial slurs, black officers were disenfranchised, and the Ku Klux Klan was celebrated according to the claimant.  Brown has also said that his complaints against discrimination resulted in being passed over for career opportunities.

The suit also names Lt. Sean Rafferty and professional standards officer James Barnes.  Brown has claimed that his fellow officer have contributed to the culture of racism and the hostile work environment.  One event in particular in 2000 included Rafferty, Brown and other officers.  While attending a football game in Indianapolis, these officers posed in front of a monument referencing the Ku Klux Klan.  When the photo resurfaced recently the Elgin Police Department suspended Rafferty for five days after the photo resurfaced last year.

Unfortunately, it is sometimes difficult to prove that discrimination exists in an organization.  Having evidence such as prejudicial emails or texts messages can be beneficial to supporting your case.  It is also important to have the support of a legal professional.  Contact an experienced employment lawyer in Schaumburg review your dispute and get you the justice you deserve.