State trooper sues state police for racial discrimination, claims unfair treatment while serving on Shapiro’s security team.

Cpl. Joshua Mack, a state trooper in Pennsylvania, has initiated legal proceedings against the Pennsylvania State Police in a federal court, asserting allegations of racial discrimination that he claims resulted in his removal from the governor’s security detail. Mack, who identifies as white, contends that his reassignment was influenced by supervisors who expressed a need for increased minority representation on Gov. Josh Shapiro’s security team.

The lawsuit, which was filed on November 25, outlines that Mack, who has served as a member of the governor’s security detail since 2011, experienced a sudden change in his duties earlier this year. His superiors reportedly cited administrative reasons for his removal, although they assured him that the decision did not stem from any shortcomings in his performance. Despite retaining his rank as a corporal, Mack argues that his new assignment is significantly less desirable, resulting in the loss of substantial overtime opportunities and diminished job benefits.

Throughout his career, Mack has consistently received positive performance evaluations and has protected four governors. He asserts that being part of the governor’s security detail includes valuable benefits such as access to specialized training, state-owned vehicles, and the potential for overtime that far exceeds that of typical troopers. According to Mack’s legal claims, the reassignment has not only impacted his financial standing, costing him over ,000 in lost overtime annually due to the position cap in his new patrol role, but has also adversely affected his professional reputation and led to emotional distress.

Mack’s lawsuit specifies that he was replaced by two non-white troopers who reportedly possess fewer qualifications and lack experience in dignitary protection. He is seeking a jury trial for damages relating to lost wages and benefits, as well as compensation for the emotional turmoil stemming from his reassignment.

Prior to moving forward with the federal lawsuit, Mack filed an administrative charge of discrimination with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, which is a procedural requirement within this context. Representatives from the Pennsylvania State Police and Gov. Shapiro’s office have refrained from commenting on the ongoing litigation, as they typically do not address personnel matters publicly. The proceedings will likely spotlight the complexities surrounding workplace diversity and the experiences of law enforcement personnel.

As this case unfolds, it could serve as a significant example of the broader discussions regarding racial representation within police departments and government agencies. Media News Source will continue to monitor the developments regarding this lawsuit as it progresses through the legal system.