Deputy Sheriffs Claim Noose Created Hostile Work Environment – Toledo, Ohio workers compensation attorneys

In July 2006 two African American deputy sheriffs', William Hill and Jacques Hughes, saw a noose hanging in the holding cell of the City of St. Louis Sheriff's Department. The two deputy's complained to Sheriff James Murphy, who allegedly investigated and found three members of the department responsible, the three members had intended it as a joke.

  Several months later Hill was transferred to a less desirable shift and then was passed up for a lead position. Hughes was suspended without pay for allegedly failing to report for duty and obey a supervisor and then he was later fired. Hill and Hughes then sued Murphy alleging hostile work environment in violation of the Missouri Human Rights Act. Specifically, the fact that Murphy failed to take prompt and effective action to properly discipline the perpetrators of the incident or correct a racially hostile work environment.   Plaintiff's did not claim lost income or medical expenses but the jury awarded Hughes $125,000 in compensatory damages and $350,000 in punitive damages. Hill was awarded $ 25,000 in compensatory damages and $350,000 in punitive damages. Punitive damages were later remitted to $75,000.   If you or someone you know has been involved in a car accident, call our Toledo, Ohio workers compensation attorneys at 800.637.8170 for a free case evaluation or to request your free copy of The Ohio Accident Book.