Austin City Council Approves Contract for Legal Defense in Discrimination Case

Austin City Council Approves Contract for Legal Defense in Discrimination Case

Last week, the Austin City Council took significant action by approving a payment of up to $293,000 to the law firm Schmoyer Reinhard LLP. This payment is intended to defend the city against claims of discrimination and harassment filed by a former police officer, Samantha Liedtke, against the Austin Police Department (APD). The total contract amount could reach up to $367,000, which will cover legal services related to Liedtke’s case.

Background of the Lawsuit

Samantha Liedtke’s lawsuit accuses the city and APD of fostering a hostile work environment that subjected her to discrimination and retaliation while she was in the force. In her complaint, Liedtke claims that her male colleagues and supervisors discriminated against her, particularly as she attempted to assist victims of sexual assault. This situation led to her experiencing humiliation, emotional distress, and financial losses due to lost wages.

However, Liedtke has emphasized that her primary goal is not to seek financial compensation but to advocate for changes that could improve the police department’s operations and its relationship with the community.

Proposed Changes by Liedtke

In a letter addressed last November, Liedtke outlined several recommendations she believes could address the issues within the department. She proposed that officers undergo mandatory jujitsu training, arguing that such training would help dispel negative stereotypes about female officers and improve interactions between the police and the public. In addition to jujitsu, she insisted that officers should receive training from SAFE Alliance, focusing on supporting sexual assault victims.

Despite these recommendations, APD has not shown signs of embracing these changes. After filing the lawsuit, Liedtke’s lawyers sent a letter to the city’s attorneys last week, urgently requesting a settlement. Liedtke is willing to accept the maximum contract amount set aside for legal services, provided the agreement would include essential training for officers and measures to enhance accountability concerning racial profiling.

Details of the Proposed Settlement

The settlement would also call for restructuring how patrol officers are deployed and ensuring that all officers receive training in jiujitsu de-escalation techniques. Furthermore, Liedtke seeks an agreement from APD to eliminate hazing and intimidation practices within the police academy.

According to her lawyers, the offer for the settlement will lapse on September 13. If the city fails to accept the proposal, Liedtke intends to pursue her lawsuit further, with potential damages sought amounting to $1.45 million.

City Council’s Response to the Case

During the council meeting, members expressed their thoughts regarding the ongoing lawsuit and the necessary updates from the city staff. Council Member Mackenzie Kelly stated, “I really believe, after reflection, that it is important that Council is made aware of any updates related to this case ongoing.” Council Member Vanessa Fuentes showed her surprise at supporting Kelly’s sentiment, also pushing for staff to keep the council informed about the case.

Mayor Kirk Watson, who has a legal background, echoed their concerns on the importance of receiving regular updates. The discussion was notable as the Council typically refrains from commenting on active lawsuits or the contracts that cover their defense.

The motion to approve the contract was passed unanimously, despite the absence of Council Member Natasha Harper-Madison and Alison Alter, who left the dais during the meeting.

Public Input on the Matter

Before the council vote, several community members spoke out, including representatives from Equity Action and the Austin Justice Coalition. They urged the council to delay any decisions regarding the contract to allow more time to address the implications of the lawsuit and what it means for the community.

This situation continues to unfold as both the city council and the community navigate the complexities of this significant lawsuit against the Austin Police Department.