A Topeka Police Captain's Fight for Justice

A significant legal battle is unfolding in Topeka. Police Captain Jennifer Cross is suing the city, claiming she faced retaliation and a hostile work environment. The case is set to go to trial on May 4, with a duration of five days. Judge Kathryn H. Vratil has set several deadlines for the case, including the trial date. The city has taken steps to gather more information. They plan to take Cross's deposition on January 7. This is part of the discovery process, where both sides exchange evidence and information. A deposition is a recorded out-of-court testimony that can be used later in court. This lawsuit is part of a larger story. In January 2023, Cross, along with two other female administrators, Jana Kizzar and Colleen Stuart, filed a suit. They alleged that the city discriminated against them by promoting less-qualified men over them. A federal judge allowed one of their claims to proceed but dismissed the others. Cross is appealing this decision.Meanwhile, Cross has filed a separate lawsuit against the city. She claims a hostile work environment and retaliation. Judge Vratil denied the city's motion to dismiss this suit. Cross is also appealing the dismissal of her initial suit. In a related case, a federal jury ruled in September 2024 that Kizzar and Stuart were indeed discriminated against. The city promoted a less-qualified man with credibility issues over them. Judge Toby Crouse awarded each of them $200, 000 in compensatory damages. Kizzar received an additional $11, 029 in back pay. However, the city is appealing this ruling. This legal battle raises important questions about fairness and equality in the workplace. It highlights the challenges faced by women in male-dominated fields. The outcome of these lawsuits could have significant implications for the city of Topeka and its police department.