Jury Orders Washington County to Pay $800K After Finding Deputy Discriminated Against Public Defenders
A Washington County, Oregon jury on Wednesday awarded $800,000 to two public defenders who sued the county, saying a sheriff’s deputy discriminated against them, blocking their access to courtrooms where they were defending clients. The ruling marks the end of a high-profile employment discrimination case that has spotlighted courtroom entry practices.
The verdict came after testimony that Chloé Clay and Alyne Sanchez, both attorneys of color, were prevented from entering courtrooms by a sheriff’s deputy on separate occasions in 2022 and 2023, despite identifying themselves as counsel and attempting to show credentials. Emotional accounts from both lawyers raised tension over whether the deputy’s actions were lawful or discriminatory.
Jurors deliberated before deciding that the deputy’s conduct constituted discriminatory treatment. As a result, Clay was awarded $500,000 and Sanchez $300,000 in damages for the barriers they faced in performing their duties as public defenders.
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Deputy Lyle’s defense attorneys urged jurors that he was enforcing standard security screening procedures designed to keep the courthouse safe, and not acting out of bias.
“We are disappointed with the verdict,” said Washington County Sheriff Caprice Massey, noting her office’s ongoing commitment to safety and fairness in facilities.
The outcome underscores broader concerns about courtroom accessibility and equal treatment for legal professionals of color in judicial settings. Legal observers say it could prompt policy reviews at courthouses statewide. The plaintiffs’ team has also signaled plans to seek reimbursement of legal costs from the county.
County officials have not yet announced specific changes to courthouse entry procedures or training for deputies. The ruling is now likely to influence how Washington County and possibly other jurisdictions handle courtroom security and anti-discrimination training going forward.
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