LAPD Dogged By Allegations of Sexual Harassment, Discrimination and Retaliation Towards Whistleblowers

Sexual harassment can occur in any workplace — and law enforcement offices are no exception. The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) has experienced several high-profile sexual harassment incidents recently. These incidents sparked litigation that ultimately cost the LAPD millions of dollars, and damaged their reputation.

Harassment in the LAPD’s K-9 Department Results in Three Multi-Million Dollar Verdicts

In May, 2019, a California jury awarded two LAPD bloodhound handlers more than $8.6 million after they filed suit alleging the behavior of their supervisor created a hostile work environment.

The two male officers alleged that they faced substantial retribution after lodging sexual harassment complaints on behalf of a female officer. Both male officers claimed they witnessed a supervisor give unsolicited shoulder rubs to their female co-worker, while also making suggestive comments about her body.

After making the complaints, the officers alleged the department responded by denying them tactical training and adequate equipment, and failing to provide them with sufficient support when apprehending violent suspects.

A jury awarded the two officers $4.4 million and $4.2 million respectively, while their female co-worker received $1.6 million.

An attorney representing the plaintiffs, told the Los Angeles Times:

“These men came forward to back up their female colleague who was being sexually harassed and got nothing but punished. The LAPD left only the perpetrator of sexual harassment unscathed.”

LAPD Captain Sues Department and City in Sexual Harassment Case

In another sexual harassment case last year, a captain employed by the LAPD

sued the department and the city of Los Angeles for failing to stop the circulation of a nude photo.

In that lawsuit, the female plaintiff alleged LAPD members were sending and receiving a nude photo of a woman falsely purported to be her.

The suit claimed the image was widely circulated and that LAPD leaders failed to discipline those responsible or take any action to prevent the distribution of the photo.

Finding the Right Sexual Harassment Lawyer

Experiencing sexual harassment — or facing retribution for speaking up on another’s behalf — can have a devastating impact on one’s career and physical and mental well-being.

In cases such as these, it’s essential to have the help of an experienced attorney — one with the necessary background to litigate even the most complex sexual harassment cases.

At L&B Law Group, we have that experience. We fight for the rights of sexual harassment victims every day, and we’ll do the same for you and your loved ones.

If you need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us today for a fast consultation.