MINNEAPOLIS (AP) - A civil rights investigation has found
probable cause that Minneapolis Fire Chief Bonnie Bleskachek
(bleh-SKAH'-chek) retaliated against a male firefighter and denied
him advancement opportunities.
It also found evidence the department gave preferential
treatment to women, especially lesbians.
The ruling stems from a 2003 complaint filed by Elondo Wright,
who claimed he was retaliated against after he displaced a female
firefighter who was friendly with Bleskachek's lesbian partner.
The finding is the latest trouble for Bleskachek, who went on
leave in March while the city investigates allegations that she
unfairly influenced the careers of others.
She also faces lawsuits alleging she mixed romantic relations
with her professional life.
---
Information from: Star Tribune, http://www.startribune.com
(Copyright 2006 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
probable cause that Minneapolis Fire Chief Bonnie Bleskachek
(bleh-SKAH'-chek) retaliated against a male firefighter and denied
him advancement opportunities.
It also found evidence the department gave preferential
treatment to women, especially lesbians.
The ruling stems from a 2003 complaint filed by Elondo Wright,
who claimed he was retaliated against after he displaced a female
firefighter who was friendly with Bleskachek's lesbian partner.
The finding is the latest trouble for Bleskachek, who went on
leave in March while the city investigates allegations that she
unfairly influenced the careers of others.
She also faces lawsuits alleging she mixed romantic relations
with her professional life.
---
Information from: Star Tribune, http://www.startribune.com
(Copyright 2006 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)