Deciding on Racism, Police Case Continues

Deliberations continue Monday in a discrimination case eight minority officers brought against the Greenwich police department.
 
Six black officers and two Hispanic officers are suing for economic and emotional distress. Jurors have heard from 43 witnesses over two weeks, and they return to U.S District Court in New Haven.
 
Lewis Chimes, the lawyer for the officers, told the jury that Greenwich officials allowed widespread racism to exist at the police department between 2002 and 2006.

The officers claim they were subjected to racial epithets and difficulties in being promoted. Chimes told Greenwich Time that his clients are “heroes” and asked the jury to right the wrongs of a flawed station policy.

"At some point four years ago, eight people stepped forward and said 'Enough,' " said Chimes. "This case was about standing up. They've already won that case. But your verdict is going to vindicate them."
 
Town lawyers deny the allegations and said the officers have no evidence to support their claims. They say the town has a clear policy of equality and the minority officers did not use the formal complaint system.

"The plaintiffs have come here seeking your sympathy and are asking you to condemn the town as a whole," said Robert Mitchell, who represents Greenwich. "They cannot blame the town for their continued misfortune, they can only blame themselves."
 

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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