Fired APD officer sues for wrongful termination

Former Austin Police Department Officer Blayne Williams, who was fired from the force in 2015, is appealing his termination, claiming that he was fired for filing a discrimination complaint against the department.

In his lawsuit filed on Thursday, April 28, Williams says that his termination from the police force is unjust because he was not informed of complaints filed against him, which is a requirement of the civil service. He also attributes his termination to a discrimination complaint he lodged against the police department in 2011, saying he felt he received different treatment than his white counterparts. City of Austin spokesman Bryce Bencivengo said that the city stands by Police Chief Art Acevedo, noting “We are prepared to defend Chief Acevedo’s decisions, which were upheld by an independent hearing examiner.”

If you are experiencing employment issues in Austin, such as a hostile work environment, wrongful termination, a wage dispute, or discrimination, the attorneys at The Melton Law Firm may be able to help you with your situation. Call our offices at (512) 330-0017 to see what we can do for you.