In 2023, a civil lawsuit was filed against the National City Police Department after mitigation proceedings failed. The case, Ashley Cummins vs. The City of National City, The National City Police Department, alleged that Cummins is filing for damages for a Hostile Work Environment, Disparate Treatment Discrimination (Sex/Gender/Sexual Orientation), Disparate Impact Discrimination, Retaliation, and Failure to Prevent Discrimination and Harassment. Represented by Hogue & Belong, and on March 27, after a six-week trial, the jury sided on all counts awarding Cummins $10 million in compensatory damages.
Cummins was hired by the NCPD around August 2018. Prior to her employment, she was an 8-year veteran police officer for the St. Louis County Police Department where she joined prestigious units and assignments, such as being a task officer for the FBI and DEA, according to the complaint.
In the complaint, it states that from March 2020 to January 2021, Cummins was repeatedly the target of mistreatment by the male officers in her squad, led primarily by Officer Murry Estabrook.
“Cummins, an openly lesbian woman, was forced to work in a hostile work environment where she was frequently harassed and denied opportunities based on her sex/gender and sexual orientation. Cummins also witnessed other female officers endure similar harassing and discriminatory treatment at NCPD.”
Hogue & Belong Partner Jeffrey Hogue said that they always believed that Cummins was wronged and viable for legal claims for sexual harassment and discrimination.
Hogue said this lawsuit has completely ruined Cummins career as a police officer.
“She has applied to numerous departments and has not gotten a single job, or job offer,” he said. “And the reason is the lawsuit. Our hearts go out to her because this has really ruined her life. It has cost her a lot. She has been in so much pain and struggles for the last five years since 2020 when it started.”
Hogue said the first step is entering a judgement, and that there is still time for post-trial motions, move for a new trial, or an appeal, which the firm will have to defend.
“So, the case is not quite over yet,” he said. “They have the right to appeal, and we fully expect them to appeal.”
At the National City Council closed session special meeting on April 1 National City City Attorney Barry. J. Schultz said the City “acknowledges the jury’s verdict” in the case involving Cummins.
“Wherein Ms. Cummins was awarded $10 million in damages following claims of harassment and discrimination,” he said. “The city is extremely disappointed with the outcome and is currently reviewing all the legal options, including a possible appeal. The city remains committed to ensuring a fair and inclusive workplace for all employees, and to continue to uphold the highest standards of professionalism within the police department. Notwithstanding the city’s disappointment, the city and the police department will carefully assess the verdict and determine what lessons can be learned. The city will continue working diligently to support a workplace culture that values respect and equal opportunity for all.”
