The International Union of Police Associations has been made aware of a lawsuit filed in state court today against the City of Baton Rouge/Baton Rouge Police Department and the Chief of Police in regard to Officer Siya Creel and his duties as Vice President of the Baton Rouge Union of Police.

The allegations in the lawsuit are disturbing. The lawsuit alleges that the Baton Rouge Police Department and Chief of Police have violated Mr. Creel’s right of Free Speech and Association under the First Amendment to the United States Constitution (and Louisiana Constitution Article 1, Sections 7 and 9) for speaking in his capacity as an elected union official in regard to union matters of public concern. As this case moves forward, we will use all resources possible to assure his rights are protected.

An E.E.O.C. complaint has also been filed on behalf of Officer Creel. The details of that complaint will be forthcoming.

The International Union of Police Associations is working with local attorneys in protecting officers from a Chief of Police who is seemingly dedicated to silencing police union leadership.

President Sam A. Cabral of the International Union of Police Associations commented on the suit, “A Chief of Police is, or should be, well aware of the Constitutional Rights of his employees and should be dedicated to preserving and respecting them. Ignoring their First Amendment Rights is a terrible example to set for the men and women he is paid to lead.”