Facts

Scott Dibble, a police officer for the Beverly Hills Police Department, filed suit against the City of Beverly Hills and police chief Sandra Spagnoli in relation to his treatment at work.

PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS: Dibble contended that Spagnoli expressed an inappropriate interest in him, and when he ceased responding to her inappropriate interests and communications, Spagnoli retaliated against him. Dibble alleged Spagnoli's treatment of him constituted sexual and workplace harassment that violated the Fair Employment and Housing Act. Further, Dibble argued that the City was liable for Spagnoli's actions and was negligent because it failed to prevent Spagnoli's harassment. Dibble claimed that Spagnoli at first exchanged work-related messages with him, but she eventually invited him to her home so he could drive her to work. Dibble alleged that in retaliation for his refusal to engage with Spagnoli, she denied his promotion to sergeant.

DEFENDANTS' CONTENTIONS: Defendants contended that Dibble's allegations were false and brought against Spagnoli as part of a campaign against her organized by employees who were upset at changes in the department after she was hired.

Result

The parties agreed to a settlement under which the City agreed to pay $175,000 to settle Dibble's claims.

Other Information

This result was one of eight related cases handled by Goldberg & Gage that settled or received favorable jury verdicts.