A Los Angeles County jury has awarded former LAPD commander Nicole Mehringer nearly $6 million in a discrimination lawsuit against the department, finding that she was wrongfully terminated following an alcohol-fueled incident in 2018.The jury concluded that Mehringer faced discrimination and was held to a different standard than her male colleagues, who reportedly faced lesser repercussions for similar misconduct.
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latimes.comnationaltoday.comThe incident in question occurred on April 27, 2018, when Mehringer and her subordinate, Sgt.James Kelly, were discovered intoxicated in an unmarked LAPD vehicle parked in the middle of a road by Glendale police.While Kelly was charged with driving under the influence, Mehringer's charge of public intoxication was later dismissed after she completed a 30-day outpatient recovery program.
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latimes.comnationaltoday.comDuring the trial, Mehringer's legal team argued that the department's handling of her case reflected a double standard, asserting that male officers routinely avoided severe disciplinary actions for comparable offenses.Kelly, for instance, was only demoted and reassigned, while Mehringer was fired.
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latimes.comnationaltoday.comMehringer expressed her gratitude and relief after the verdict, stating, "I feel grateful and vindicated.This verdict means everything to me and in my mind it restores my reputation." Her attorney, Greg Smith, emphasized that the jury recognized the differential treatment she received, particularly highlighting former LAPD Chief Michel Moore's testimony, which the jury found to be misleading.
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latimes.comnationaltoday.comThe case underscores broader issues of gender discrimination within the LAPD.Mehringer's situation is not an isolated incident; in 2022, another female commander, Lillian Carranza, was awarded $4 million after alleging that the department failed to respond appropriately to a situation involving the circulation of a nude photo falsely claimed to be hers.Additionally, former Captain Stacey Vince received a $10.1 million verdict in 2023 for similar claims of retaliation and discrimination.
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latimes.comnationaltoday.comThroughout her tenure, Mehringer was regarded as a rising star within the LAPD, overseeing the department's employee relations group.However, the aftermath of the incident severely impacted her career, leading her to file a lawsuit in 2019 to seek reinstatement and damages for what she described as gender-based discrimination.
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latimes.comThe trial revealed significant internal conflicts within the LAPD, particularly regarding how officers are treated when they expose misconduct.Mehringer's attorney presented a videotaped message from former Deputy Chief John Sherman, who initially supported her but later withdrew that support after she sought to report departmental issues.This withdrawal was indicative of the cultural challenges faced by those who attempt to hold the department accountable.
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latimes.comnationaltoday.comAs the LAPD continues to navigate significant scrutiny over its internal practices, the verdict in Mehringer's case may serve as a catalyst for further discussions on equality and accountability within law enforcement.The city is reportedly considering an appeal against the jury's decision, which could prolong the legal battles surrounding this high-profile case.
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nationaltoday.comThe outcome of this lawsuit contributes to a growing narrative of gender discrimination and highlights the need for reform within police departments.As the legal landscape evolves, the implications of Mehringer's case may resonate beyond the LAPD, prompting other departments to reevaluate their policies and practices regarding gender equality and professional conduct.
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nationaltoday.comOverall, the jury's decision not only reinforces the importance of fair treatment in law enforcement but also serves as a significant victory for those advocating for gender equality within the workforce.
