Fired Connecticut Officer Sues Police Department

September 23, 2009

A Connecticut police officer fired over allegations he threatened the lives of his superiors is suing town and police officials, claiming age discrimination and civil rights violations.

Forty-eight-year-old Daniel Hedges filed the lawsuit in U.S. District Court last Thursday. He says his firing last year was a conspiracy involving town officials, and violated federal and state laws.

Hedges is seeking $5 million in punitive damages, as well as lost pay and future medical expenses. The lawsuit doesn’t mention Hedges’ alleged misconduct.

Hedges was one of five Madison officers fired during a department misconduct investigation that also forced the police chief to retire.

The town attorney and police officials declined to comment on the lawsuit.