Man claims state facility discriminated against male workers

SHERMAN - A lawsuit has been filed against the Denton State School for allegedly maintaining a policy of excluding males from employment in certain jobs.

Claiming gender discrimination in violation of his civil rights, Charley Larry filed suit against the Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services on Jan. 10 in the Western District of Texas, Austin Division. The defendant transferred the case to the Eastern District of Texas, Sherman Division on June 20.

Denton State Supported Living Center, also known as the Denton State School, provides direct services and support to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, according to its website. It is one of 13 facilities operated by the Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services.

According to the allegations, males are excluded from positions that involve providing direct care to female residents. Larry claims he was otherwise a bona fide applicant for open job positions and duly qualified, but was not considered due to the discriminatory practice of hiring only female employees for the positions.

The plaintiff is asking the court to prevent further discriminatory actions and for an award of damages for back pay, front pay, compensatory damages, interest, court costs and attorney's fees.

Larry is represented by Steven B. Thorpe and Carla S. Hatcher of Thorpe, Hatcher & Washington in Dallas.

U.S. District Judge Richard A. Schell is assigned to the case.

Case No. 4:11-cv-00374