Former officer sues La Crosse police claiming discrimination

LA CROSSE, Wis. (AP) — A former La Crosse police officer has filed a federal lawsuit against his former employer, claiming race discrimination and retaliation.

Anthony Clark says he was repeatedly subjected to racial harassment and that the police department retaliated with an internal investigation that was designed to intimidate him.

Clark, who’s black, is seeking unspecified damages for pain and suffering and attorney fees. His attorney, Jim Birnbaum, says he hopes the parties can resolve the case before it goes to trial.

La Crosse Tribune reports the police department denies the allegations. Clark’s employment was terminated in October for medical reasons. He now lives in Georgia.