Jamil Carter v. The City of San Jose; The San Jose Police Department; Michael Sullivan, individually and in his official capacity as Lieutenant, SJPD; and Keith Cottrell, individually and in his official capacity as Sergeant, SJPD
Published: Feb. 1, 2014 | Result Date: Nov. 14, 2013 | Filing Date: Jan. 1, 1900 |Case number: 5:12-cv-01968-HRL Verdict – Defense
Court
USDC Northern
Attorneys
Plaintiff
Thomas K. Bourke
(Law Office of Thomas K. Bourke)
Defendant
Nkia D. Richardson
(Office of the San Jose City Attorney)
Christian B. Nielsen
(Office of the San Jose City Attorney)
Facts
Jamil Carter was employed as a police officer with the San Jose Police Department. She was hired on June 12, 2002.
In 2011, Carter expressed interest in transferring to the Airport Division for the San Jose Airport. She claimed she was met with resistance to this decision, and later sued the City of San Jose.
Contentions
PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS:
Carter claimed that when she expressed interest in applying to the Airport Division, Sergeant Keith Cottrell attempted to dissuade her from applying, but Carter still wanted to take the exam for the position. Cottrell continued to try to dissuade her, eventually growing increasingly hostile when she refused to give up.
Carter further alleged that at her interview for the position, the interviewing officers acted oddly, and asked her questions that had nothing to do with her qualifications for the job. Lieutenant Michael Sullivan, one of interviewers, also attempted to dissuade her from applying, and also grew hostile during the exam. Carter was later informed that she had failed the exam, but eventually was assigned to the airport.
Result
The jury ruled in favor of the city, and denied all of Carter's claims.
Deliberation
three hours
Length
six days
For reprint rights or to order a copy of your photo:
Email
jeremy@reprintpros.com
for prices.
Direct dial: 949-702-5390