SAN JOSE, California – A former University of California police officer has been awarded over $7 million in damages after a jury found that he was unjustly terminated due to his race. Glenn Harper, a former lieutenant in the UC Santa Cruz Police Department, filed a lawsuit against the UC Regents in 2019, alleging that his termination in 2017 was racially motivated. The jury reached a unanimous verdict in favor of Harper after three hours of deliberation.
According to the lawsuit, Harper’s firing stemmed from an internal dispute over a firearms investigation. Despite having 27 years of experience as a police officer without any disciplinary actions, Harper was fired in what he claimed was an excessively punitive and racially biased decision. The lawsuit also alleged that a white officer had lied about Harper and only received a counseling order.
Harper’s lawsuit stated that he was one of only five black sworn police officers in the UC Santa Cruz Police Department since its establishment in 1965. He argued that his termination was a clear example of racial bias within the department.
In response to the verdict, a spokesperson from UC Santa Cruz expressed disappointment and stated that the university is considering its options for appeal. The university maintained that Harper’s termination was a result of multiple instances of unprofessional conduct.
Harper’s lawyer, Harry Stern, argued that his client was fired for yelling at a sergeant who mishandled the firearms investigation. Stern claimed that this type of behavior would typically only result in a reprimand or a one-day suspension.
The significant damages awarded to Harper reflect the jury’s acknowledgment of the injustice he faced. The case sheds light on the ongoing issue of racial discrimination within law enforcement agencies and highlights the importance of addressing and eradicating these biases.
The verdict in Harper’s favor sends a strong message about accountability and the consequences of racial discrimination in the workplace. It serves as a reminder that individuals should be judged based on their actions and qualifications, rather than their race.
This verdict serves as a potential precedent for future cases involving racial discrimination in employment and provides hope for marginalized individuals who face similar challenges. It also emphasizes the need for law enforcement agencies and institutions to prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion to ensure fair treatment for all employees.
Overall, this case brings attention to the need for continued efforts to eliminate racial biases in the workplace and promote equal opportunities for all employees. It highlights the significance of holding institutions accountable for discriminatory practices and serves as a step towards achieving a more just and equitable society.