Mobile County Department of Human Resources (DHR) director Stephanie Streeter denies all claims in a seven-count lawsuit against her and the Alabama DHR.
The lawsuit, filed by former Mobile County DHR employee Beau Doolittle, claims race, gender and disability discrimination and retaliation.
Doolittle was employed with Mobile County DHR in 2009 and worked in the Food Assistance division. He suffers from anxiety and depression, which are qualified disabilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). After the death of a co-worker, Doolittle said his depression worsened, and he began suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, he said alerting his director ended in his termination from DHR.
He is seeking injunctive and equitable relief, compensatory damages, punitive damages, court costs and attorneys' fees.
A judge recently dismissed two counts of retaliation and one count of defamation without prejudice.
All parties have until January 18 to file summaries of their understanding of the case. Following those filings, the next court date will be set.
Mobile County DHR referred media inquiries to the Alabama DHR concerning legal matters. Alabama DHR declined to comment on pending litigation.
The lawsuit is one of several filed against DHR. An open letter was sent to Gov. Kay Ivey concerning issues former and current employees say they have experienced. Her office responded with support for Commissioner Nancy Buckner.
Doolittle told 1819 News in October that issues within DHR are impacting the citizens of Alabama.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email erica.thomas@1819news.com.
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