"Mocked for His Disability": Veteran Christopher Huffman Files Lawsuit Against City of Columbus Division of Police for Discrimination

Columbus, OH, October 23, 2024 – On October 16, 2024, Christopher Huffman, a military veteran and former probationary police officer, filed a lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Ohio, accusing the City of Columbus Division of Police of violating the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The lawsuit details a disturbing pattern of discrimination, including how Huffman was mocked for his disability by his supervisor and forced to resign under duress. This case raises serious concerns about how the City of Columbus is treating its veterans.

Huffman, who served his country honorably and has a medical condition affecting his ability to express thoughts in written form, was hired by the City in November 2023. Despite performing his job duties successfully, Huffman became the target of ridicule after his condition became known. His supervisor repeatedly mocked his writing abilities in front of colleagues, making derogatory comments that worsened his work environment.

"He was subjected to cruel mockery and humiliation, all because of a disability that he worked hard to overcome while serving this country," said Chanda Brown, attorney for Christopher Huffman. "The fact that the City of Columbus would allow a veteran, who has given so much, to be treated this way is not just unlawful, it’s unconscionable."

Huffman’s requests for reasonable accommodations, including additional time to complete reports and the support of a mentor, were ignored. Instead, he was sent to remedial report writing training, despite being able to complete his duties with minor assistance. When he requested a transfer to escape the hostile environment, his request was denied. Eventually, Huffman was given the ultimatum to either resign or be terminated.

"The City’s refusal to help Mr. Huffman, despite knowing he was more than capable of performing his job, shows a complete disregard for the contributions of veterans," added Brown. 

Huffman’s lawsuit seeks compensatory damages for lost wages, emotional distress, and punitive damages to send a clear message that such discrimination will not be tolerated. 

 A copy of the Complaint can be found here.

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For more information, please contact:

WALTON + BROWN, LLP 
395 E. Broad Street, Suite 200 
Columbus, OH 43215 
Phone: (614) 636-3476 
Email: cbrown@waltonbrownlaw.com