DENVER – A federal court jury ruled against an El Paso County Sheriff’s deputy who claimed he was discriminated against while working at the sheriff’s office.
Former Sergeant John Huntz sued the department when he claimed he was shifted to the night shift as retaliation for his then wife, Tiffany Huntz, reporting sexual harassment by a commander.
According to a news release from El Paso County government, the sexual harassment claim was dismissed in court last September, but John Huntz continued with his lawsuit.
The Sheriff’s Office said John Huntz went on leave in January 2015 due to medical issues. The Sheriff’s Office said he was on leave for nearly eight months and they said he failed to respond to multiple requests to return to work to be evaluated for fitness for duty.
The sheriff’s office said his employment was terminated when he didn’t return for work.
(This story has been updated for clarity)
