Law Enforcement Breaking Emp't Laws

[Bosco]

I am a former federal law enforcement employee looking for legal advice.

I was a probationary employee that experienced harassment and witnessed illegal behavior by my peers and managers. I reported the behavior to the proper officials and was consequently fired by my managers when they were notified about my complaint. My managers made defamatory statements and stated their intent was to make sure I never work in this career again (my field requires a background investigation anywhere I go. They stated that I was a security risk, which is untrue). My managers threatened me in the presence of an Ombudsman, who claimed that the threats were definitely illegal. Nothing was done, however, and I was fired based on comments made to personnel by my managers. No investigation took place (although I believe an internal EEO investigation may take place now).

I have files that prove my claims. I gave copies to EEO, but I don't have confidence that it will be resolved properly. Also, I have additional files that were confiscated by my managers when they dismissed me. I wrote a list of items and sent letters to the internal EEO office and the EEOC. I am not sure whether they have been tampered with though.

I've talked to lawyers who tell me that the Federal Government will squash me before admitting they have done something wrong. I already know of a Senate investigation that might be targeting one of my former bosses.

I am unemployed and in an untenable situation. I was visably harassed, defamed and wrongfully dismissed.

What do I do?

 

[JBK]

From your message, I presume that you have already filed a claim with the EEOC. Unfortunately, most regional offices of the EEOC are overwhelmed, and they sometimes cannot devote the time necessary to fully investigate each case. I would suggest speaking with an employment attorney in your area to see if you might have a case. Initial consultations are generally free.

 

[Tracey]

Before suing the federal government, you have to exhaust your administrative remedies. I.e., wait for the EEOC to do their job. You might try filing for injunctive relief prohibiting your former bosses from giving you derogatory references. It's a long shot, though.

------------------
This is not legal advice and you are not my client. Double check everything with your own attorney and your state's laws.

 

[16952]

Have you looked at the possibility of a Whistleblowers protection act complaint? MSPB still has jurisdiction, except that as in Burns v. USAF, 'allegations of threats of reprisal were not enough to envoke the boards jurisdiction, there must be more, and as you say, you were fired-(been there) good luck-KD