Former LAPD Officer Secures $11.5 Million Verdict in Retaliation Case Against City of Los Angeles

Employment Law

Mark Sauvao v. City of Los Angeles, et al. (Los Angeles Super Ct No. BC707968): On March 28, 2024, Plaintiff Mark Sauvao was awarded a $11.5 million verdict against the City of Los Angeles in an underlying matter where he alleged retaliation and race discrimination against his former employer, the Los Angeles Police Department. After working for the LAPD K-9 bomb detection unit for 12 years, he was suddenly transferred to the less prestigious K-9 bomb squad unit. Plaintiff alleged that his transfer was initiated shortly after reporting his supervisors for verbal harassment concerning his Samoan heritage and for reporting overtime issues. Plaintiff further alleged that he received less overtime opportunities in his new position, and that his supervisors opened up an internal affairs investigation against him which diminished his reputation, compelling him to retire several years earlier than he had originally anticipated. Defendant denied all allegations leading up to the verdict. Plaintiff was represented by McNicholas & McNicholas LLP. Defendant was represented by Burke, Williams & Sorensen LLP.