Racial Bias Lawsuit Filed By 2 Bridgewater Cops

BRIDGEWATER, NJ — Two officers have filed a lawsuit against Bridgewater claiming racial bias has limited them from participating in promotions.

The lawsuit was filed by Frank Flores and John Doesburg on Jan. 16 in Somerset County Superior Court against the Mayor and Council and Police Chief John Mitzak.

The officers claim they participated in the "Citizen Police Academy" which brought recognition to them. Because of this the lawsuit claims "their participation was limited because they were Black and they were being recognized by the community."

Flores also claims he was denied advancement into the position of Detective and could not volunteer his time with the citizen police academy due to discrimination because of a medical condition he has that predominantly affects Blacks where he must wear a beard because of a skin condition.

Doesburgh retired from the police department on May 31, 2024, because of the "discrimination against him."

This is Flores' second lawsuit against the Township. He previously filed a lawsuit in June 2024 claiming Mitzak retaliated against him for wanting to grow his facial hair. Read More: Bridgewater Cop Who Wanted To Grow Facial Hair Files Lawsuit Against Township

In the first lawsuit, Flores claims Mitzak granted permission to allow Flores to grow his facial hair due to his medical condition only if he provides a medical note on a monthly basis.

"This was a burdensome request as it required [Flores] to seek a note from a doctor for a chronic condition on a recurring basis," according to the lawsuit.

Flores also claimed that Mitzak wrote him up for one month for forgetting to supply a note.

The Township then hired attorney Gina Rabuck-Anton to conduct an independent investigation in 2023 and 2024.

Flores claims that when he filed an OPRA request for all documents related to the investigation he was denied by the Township.

Doesburgh was reportedly a witness in support of a human resources complaint filed by Flores alleging racial discrimination against Mitzak.

Public Information Officer for Bridgewater Township Suzanne Maeder said the Township is aware of the recent civil action filed by Doesburgh and Flores and will cooperate fully with the legal process.

"The Township stands by the integrity and professionalism of its Police Department and its officers, who serve our community with dedication and uphold the highest standards of conduct. Any suggestion to the contrary is both unfounded and misleading," said Maeder. "While we cannot comment further on ongoing litigation, we remain confident that the facts will demonstrate the Township’s unwavering commitment to lawful and ethical practices."

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