Harrison County, KY

Harrison County, KY: (Sep-23-07) Former corrections officers Lina Misamore and Danielle Smith brought lawsuits against Harrison County and Sheriff Mike Deatrick, alleging that their civil rights were violated when they were subjected to a sexually hostile work environment and to retaliation when they complained. Misamore and Smith, along with another past employee, Mary Ward, filed discrimination claims nearly four years ago with the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, alleging they were discriminated against. They claimed that they were subjected to brazen sexual remarks and innuendo by two male co-workers and a female supervisor. Each said retaliatory actions, including shift changes and demotions, effectively forced them to resign. Two other claims filed by Ward and Ray Byrne, a former jail commander, are still pending. Byrne alleged that Deatrick fired him in May 2004, because he believed that Byrne was one of several employees who spoke with the EEOC. The agency conducted an investigation that included sending an examiner to Corydon to interview employees and officials, including Deatrick.

The EEOC later ruled that a civil rights violation had occurred and referred the matter to the US Department of Justice. In a settlement reached, Harrison County is expected to pay $30,000 to settle the federal lawsuit. Sources claim that Misamore is expected to receive $20,000 and Smith $26,000. The county's portion of $30,000 derives from a $15,000 insurance deductible per claim. [COURIER JOURNAL: CORRECTIONS OFFICERS]

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Published on Sep-24-07