Facts

Quincy Miles sued the City of Long Beach and Kristine Bates, alleging workplace discrimination. Bates was later let out of the case.

PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS:
Plaintiff, who worked for defendant as a police officer, was allegedly fired on Sept. 2, 2011 because of his race and for filing about allegations of race discrimination and harassment. Plaintiff claimed he was investigated for job-related conduct, but claimed that was just a pretext for his racially motivated termination.

DEFENDANT'S CONTENTIONS:
Defendant denied plaintiff's discrimination claims. Defendant claimed plaintiff was fired because of performance-related issues, including, insubordination, multiple sustained charges of untruthfulness, and neglect of duty. Plaintiff also allegedly sustained a domestic violence charge resulting in his suspension. Plaintiff was advised that any further misconduct could result in his termination. Thereafter, plaintiff fell asleep during an incident in which an officer was involved in a shooting and later lied about it.

Settlement Discussions

Miles demanded $500,000 in settlement, which the city countered with a $10,000 offer.

Damages

Plaintiff sought lost earnings from date of termination through retirement, totaling nearly $4.5 million.

Injuries

Miles allegedly suffered from emotional distress resulting from his firing.

Result

The court granted non-suit on the discrimination cause of action. The jury ultimately rendered a verdict in favor of the city, finding Miles' termination justified and not retaliatory, and that Miles had not been harassed on the basis of race.

Other Information

FILING DATE: Dec. 27, 2011.