Two Tehachapi police officers are threatening to sue the city they serve, each asking for $1.5 million.
The officers claim they are being retaliated against for blowing the whistle on alleged wrongdoing within the department.
Officers Rick Disney and Peter Graff filed the claim in court Monday. Both officers said they're working in a hostile work environment and suffered emotional distress after reporting the incidents.
"Our claim details a number of acts of retaliation including threats of physical violence against these two officers," said Attorney Stephen Wainer, who represents both officers.
Wainer said his clients have been retaliated against for coming forward.
The claim said Officer Rick Disney reported an incident of a senior officer serving alcohol to underage police explorers. It also says Officer Peter Graff reported a sergeant falsifying time sheets.
"There's no other way for this information will come to light unless somebody who is involved in the situation and has the insight knowledge of it, comes forward, brings it to light," said Wainer.
Officer Disney has been with the force for two and a half years and Officer Graff for five years. The officers claim emotional distress and mental suffering due to a hostile work environment.
17 News spoke with Tehachapi Police Chief Jeff Kermode on Thursday. He said he was unable to comment due to the pending litigation.
The city has 45 days to accept or reject the claim. Attorney Stephen Wainer said if the city rejects it, the officers will move forward with a lawsuit in Superior Court.
