The News Journal
08/11/2006
WILMINGTON – The head of the union representing corrections officers filed a federal civil lawsuit today against the state Department of Correction, charging violations of his first and fourteenth amendment rights.
Specifically Sgt. Wilbur F. Justice alleges that he was retaliated against and denied promotion opportunities for speaking out about problems at the prison and for his aggressive representation of the union in contract negotiations.
Department officials and Gov. Ruth Ann Minner’s office had no immediate comment Friday.
Justice is being represented by Wilmington attorney Thomas S. Neuberger who has successfully represented Delaware State Police troopers in similar lawsuits against the state.
At a press conference shortly after the suit was filed today, Neuberger said this is the first of many he expects to file on behalf of corrections officers.
In addition to the ongoing retaliation, Neuberger said safety and security problems at the prison still have not been addressed by the state. He added that efforts to work through the Delaware General Assembly this year to address those issues failed.
“We are now moving into the courtroom to seek relief for the 1,187 men and women in this union,” Neuberger said.
“This will cost the taxpayers millions of dollars, as already has happened with similar misconduct by the leadership of the Delaware State Police.”
Contact Sean O’Sullivan at 324-2777 or sosullivan@delawareonline.com
