Police officer Robert DeVito Jr. of Palisades Park, New Jersey, has filed a lawsuit against the borough, alleging discrimination and retaliation based on his sexual orientation, political affiliation, and prior legal actions. This is DeVito’s second lawsuit in six years, with the recent complaint accusing Palisades Park Mayor Chong Paul Kim and Councilman Suk “John” Min of orchestrating his removal from key roles and denying him a promotion.
DeVito, an openly gay officer and long-time borough employee, claims that despite being highly qualified, he was ousted as the borough’s communications manager and overlooked for a promotion to sergeant. The lawsuit, filed on January 14 in Bergen County Superior Court, outlines a history of alleged discrimination and retaliation against DeVito, including a previous firing and a lawsuit in March 2019 that resulted in a $600,000 settlement and his reinstatement as a police officer.
The crux of the complaint revolves around allegations of ongoing retaliation following the previous lawsuit and settlement, with tensions escalating after the Democratic Club of Palisades Park withdrew political support for Min’s 2023 re-election bid. The lawsuit accuses borough officials of violating the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination and the state’s Civil Rights Act, as well as the New Jersey Wage Payment Law for failing to compensate DeVito while serving as communications manager in a holdover capacity.
Patterns of Retaliation: A Broader Issue
DeVito’s case is not an isolated incident within the Palisades Park Police Department. The lawsuit was filed around the same time that another police officer, Sgt. Christopher Beck, settled a discrimination suit against the borough for $125,000. Beck’s suit, filed in May 2022, alleged retaliation, harassment, and unfair promotional practices. Additionally, Sgt. George Beck, Christopher’s brother, has an ongoing lawsuit against the borough, claiming retaliation after reporting a supervising officer to Internal Affairs for alleged misconduct.
This pattern of alleged retaliation is further exemplified by former Palisades Park Police Officer Samuel Kim, who settled a lawsuit for $120,000 in 2022. Kim claimed he was harassed by a lieutenant who bullied him, shouted at him in public, and even struck him with chopsticks. These cases shed light on potential systemic issues within the department and raise concerns about the treatment of officers who speak out against misconduct or discrimination.
Legal Ramifications and Community Impact
The implications of DeVito’s lawsuit extend beyond his individual experience, potentially impacting the workplace culture and community relations within Palisades Park. By alleging discrimination and retaliation, DeVito is not only seeking justice for himself but also highlighting broader issues that may exist within the borough’s administration and police department.
The lawsuit serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding anti-discrimination laws and protecting the rights of all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation, political beliefs, or affiliations. It underscores the need for transparency, accountability, and fair treatment within law enforcement agencies to maintain public trust and ensure a safe and inclusive environment for both officers and community members.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the outcome of DeVito’s lawsuit could set a precedent for how similar cases are addressed in the future and may prompt reforms within the Palisades Park Police Department. It is a pivotal moment that highlights the complexities of navigating workplace dynamics, legal protections, and the pursuit of justice in the face of adversity.
In the midst of these legal battles and allegations, the Palisades Park community watches with bated breath, hoping for a resolution that upholds justice, fairness, and accountability. The outcome of DeVito’s lawsuit could have far-reaching implications, shaping the future trajectory of the borough’s law enforcement practices and serving as a catalyst for positive change.