Case Overview

The lawsuit, filed in the Superior Court of New Jersey, stems from Dr. Hibbs’ repeated whistleblower reports, including formal complaints to the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability, the Gloucester County Prosecutor’s Office, and two Deputy Attorneys General.  As alleged in the Complaint, Dr. Hibbs uncovered what he believed to be an unethical and procedurally defective selection of an insurance consulting firm, Insurance Consulting Service (“ICS”), by the WBOE. The proposal from ICS was not only the lowest-rated submission, but was also materially defective, negatively impacting employees of the Washington Township Public School District.

As further alleged in the Complaint, Dr. Hibbs raised serious governance concerns regarding select members of the Board of Education, including ethical misconduct, conflicts of interest, and the exclusion of board members from key negotiations. He highlighted specific issues related to Board President Julie Kozempel’s interference in negotiations, personnel decisions, and board operations, as well as a troubling pattern of intimidation, unprofessional conduct, and pressure to “align with the board base.”

As a result, Dr. Hibbs was subjected to retaliatory investigations initiated by the WBOE, which culminated in his unjust placement on administrative leave through the fraudulent invocation of the Doctrine of Necessity by the WBOE. Accordingly, Dr. Hibbs is seeking full legal remedies under New Jersey’s Conscientious Employee Protection Act.

Legal Representation

McOmber McOmber & Luber, P.C.’s dedicated legal team, led by partners R. Armen McOmber, Esq., and Austin B. Tobin, Esq., and associate Anna F. Esposito, Esq., is committed to advocating for Dr. Hibbs’ rights. The firm’s extensive experience in handling complex whistleblower and employment law cases positions them uniquely to seek justice and accountability.

“Whistleblowers are essential in combating ethical misconduct—often serving as the initial and most vital source of information when standards of integrity are compromised,” said Anna F. Esposito, Esq. “This case exemplifies the importance of protecting those who speak up. Dr. Hibbs fulfilled his ethical duty as Superintendent by reporting misconduct. Instead of being protected, he was publicly targeted and silenced.”