Settlement Reached in Discrimination Suit

SUNNYVALE, Calif. – The City of Sunnyvale and four former public safety officers have reached a settlement agreement on all claims in a gender discrimination lawsuit filed last year in federal court. The four female officers generally alleged that they had a difficult time succeeding in the Department because of gender discrimination. The City disputed these claims.

The final decision to settle was made by the City’s excess liability insurer, which will cover the costs of settlement. Under the terms of the agreement, the insurer will pay a lump sum of $1,050,000 to be divided amongst the plaintiffs, and $900,000 to their lawyers. The terms of the settlement were recommended by former Magistrate Judge Edward Infante, who provided mediation services to the parties. The significant future costs, including attorneys’ fees, of continuing litigation, time and ongoing disruption to the Department of Public Safety were key factors in the decision to settle. Under the terms of the agreement, all parties deny any liability or wrongdoing. The City maintains its strong commitment to providing citizens with a diverse, excellently trained public safety staff, and to providing all of its employees with a positive working environment free of discrimination.