Legal Triumph for Former LAPD Commander
A significant legal victory unfolded in Los Angeles when a jury awarded former LAPD commander Nicole Mehringer nearly $6 million after she filed a lawsuit against the department. The case centered around her termination following an alcohol-related incident in 2018, where she contended that her treatment differed from that of her male counterparts, who faced less severe consequences under similar circumstances.
Following the verdict, Mehringer expressed her gratitude and sense of vindication, stating, “This verdict means everything to me and in my mind it restores my reputation.” The jury sided with her claims, acknowledging the disparities in how she was treated compared to male colleagues who allegedly escaped equivalent penalties.
Details of the Incident and Trial
The legal battle traced back to an incident on April 27, 2018, when Mehringer and her subordinate, Sgt. James Kelly, were found by Glendale police in an unmarked LAPD vehicle that had collided with a parked car. Both showed signs of intoxication, with Kelly, the driver, later facing DUI charges while Mehringer received a misdemeanor charge for public intoxication, which was dismissed after she completed a recovery program.
During the trial, Mehringer’s attorney, Greg Smith, highlighted the testimony of former LAPD Chief Michel Moore, arguing that he misrepresented the circumstances surrounding disciplinary actions within the department. Smith emphasized that jurors recognized the inequity in how Mehringer’s case was handled compared to others, reinforcing the notion that she was unfairly treated for speaking out against misconduct.
Despite her efforts to uphold her distinguished career in the LAPD, which included leading employee relations and handling crucial negotiations, Mehringer faced a demotion offer after the incident, which she declined. Ultimately, she lost her position while her counterpart, Kelly, received a lesser disciplinary action.
The case underscores ongoing discussions about departmental accountability and the treatment of female officers within the LAPD, adding to a troubling trend of legal challenges faced by the department concerning gender discrimination.
