Bergenfield, New Jersey seeks to have a whistleblower lawsuit dismissed that was filed by a former police officer.
Lawsuit Filed
In October of 2016, Officer Legregni filed a lawsuit alleging that he faced retaliation during his employment as a police officer. Legregni claims that after raising concerns about the misconduct of his fellow officers, the town retaliated against him as a whistleblower. As a result, Legregni alleges that this is a direct violation of New Jersey’s Conscientious Employee Protection Act (CEPA). In the lawsuit, Legregni seeks compensatory damages, protection from retaliation, and expungement of the disciplinary charges from his record.
Alleged Retaliation in the Workplace
Legregni became a police officer for the town in July of 2010. However, after working in the department, he alleges that he witnessed official misconduct, aggravated assault, fraud, police misconduct, insurance fraud, and falsifying records. Further, Legregni alleges that his superior officers prevented him from reporting reckless driving by a colleague. Legregni claims that his colleague crashed his personal vehicle at a middle school in July 2014, and his superiors prevented Legregni from reporting the incidence.
Also, Legregni claims that the police department did not adequately investigate a threatening situation he experienced while on the job. Legregni alleges that a colleague held a gun to his head and threatened to kill him. However, the department’s investigation was allegedly insufficient and deemed the allegation “unfounded.”
Legregni reported these alleged incidences to his supervisors. Following his reports, Legregni claims he experienced retaliation from his supervisors. The lawsuit includes that Legregni experienced internal affairs complaints and disciplinary charges as a result of his whistleblowing.
In response, Attorney James Dronzek filed a motion for summary judgment to dismiss the lawsuit. A decision is scheduled to be issued on September 13.
New Jersey Protects Whistleblowers
The New Jersey Conscientious Employee Protection Act (CEPA) protects employees who report illegal or unsafe practices in the workplace. This law allows whistleblowers to report fraudulent activities they witness at work without fearing retaliation from their employers. Under state law, you can feel safe reporting unlawful activities you witness at work.
Retaliation Attorneys at McOmber McOmber & Luber, P.C. Advocate on Behalf of Victims of Retaliation
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The retaliation lawyers at McOmber McOmber & Luber, P.C. can help you. Call our Red Bank office at 732-842-6500, our Marlton office at 856-985-9800, our Newark office at 973-878-9040, or contact us at 888-396-0736 or online for a free consultation. We represent clients throughout New Jersey.