Facts

James Johnson was employed by the City of San Diego for 20 years. In September 2020, Johnson was fired by the City, and he subsequently sued the city on June 29, 2021 in San Diego County Superior Court.

PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS: Johnson contended that he had worked for San Diego for twenty years; that he had reported safety violations in the city's sewer systems to federal officials; that as a result of his report, the United States Occupational Safety and Health Administration, cited the city; and that he was fired in retaliation for his reporting. Moreover, Johnson, who is Black, contended that he was discriminated against and harassed on account of his race; Johnson also contended that one of his supervisors came to work intoxicated and was condescending and abusive towards Black workers.

DEFENDANT'S CONTENTIONS: The City of San Diego denied any wrongdoing or liability and all the plaintiff's material allegations.

Result

The parties reached an agreement wherein the City admitted no wrongdoing or liability but agreed to pay $97,975 to settle Johnson's claims.