By Karen Best

In less than a week, two separate juries found that Suffolk County discriminated against two of their own officers. On Thursday a Central Islip jury awarded former Suffolk County police officer, Mathew Sforza, $450,000 in compensatory damages. Sforza’s lawsuit alleged he was discriminated against because of his disability.

Over the course of his 15 year career, Sforza suffered back injuries in the line of duty. During the time of the injuries Sforza did take necessary leave off from work. When Sforza returned he not only wanted to continue doing his civic duties but he also wanted to be promoted. He took the necessary civil service exam to become a sergeant and scored higher than the majority of his fellow officers. Sforza had no civilian or interoffice complaints and he was just as productive as his colleagues.

To Sforza’s surprise he was passed up for a promotion not once but three times. Officers who scored lower on the exam and had spotty work records were given promotions over him. When Sforza inquired about the situation he was told he might get injured again and if promoted would retire with a disability pension.

Shocked and devastated Sforza turned to Leeds, Morelli and Brown, PC. Represented by Rick Ostrove, the lead trial counsel for the firm, Sforza had his day in court and a jury of his peers also believed he was discriminated against.

Leeds, Morelli and Brown, PC is an established employment and civil rights law firm representing victims of discrimination throughout Long Island, the entire New York City area, and nationwide. We understand the distinction between the words, “inability” and “disability” and have been working to get that message across to employers for more than two decades. If you believe you are a victim of discrimination call Leeds, Morelli and Brown, PC at 1-800-585-4658 for a free and confidential consultation.