Madison, Connecticut, PD Facing Two Suits Alleging Sexism

WSHU | By Clare Secrist

Published September 1, 2021 at 7:12 PM EDT

Two lawsuits filed in the last two years against Madison’s Police Department focus on discrimination against female officers.

Officer Cara Hewes filed a lawsuit in January 2020. It claims she was stripped of her job as a K-9 handler after she became pregnant in 2018. Hewes left the department last year.

Sergeant Kimberly Lauria and Officer Natasha Pucillo filed a suit in June alleging they were passed over for promotions given to male officers with lesser qualifications. Both officers are current members of the force.

Attorneys for the town have yet to respond to the lawsuit filed by Lauria and Pucilla. The town has denied the knowledge of Hewes’ allegations.

All three women claim they were subject to degrading comments from colleagues.

Stand up for civility

This news story is funded in large part by Connecticut Public’s Members — listeners, viewers, and readers like you who value fact-based journalism and trustworthy information.

We hope their support inspires you to donate so that we can continue telling stories that inform, educate, and inspire you and your neighbors. As a community-supported public media service, Connecticut Public has relied on donor support for more than 50 years.

Your donation today will allow us to continue this work on your behalf. Give today at any amount and join the 50,000 members who are building a better—and more civil—Connecticut to live, work, and play.

Donate