Alleging she’s the victim of racial discrimination, Ocie Chaisson has filed a whistleblower claim against Jefferson County and Sheriff Mitch Woods.
The petition and application for restraining order was filed May 6 in Jefferson County District Court.
According to the petition, Chaisson has been employed at the Sheriff's Peace Officer and Correctional Officer Academy since July 1, 1991. Her duties include training and determining applicant admission.
In 2001, Sergeant Danny Walker, whose grandfather was a Jefferson County Commisioner in Precinct 4, and whose uncle and cousins were judges, was appointed Academy Director, although only a sergeant.
“When his uncle was running for county judge, Danny Walker was in trouble for allegedly using a county vehicle and county time for campaigning for his uncle,” the petition states.
“When his uncle won the election and was invested as county judge, Sgt. Walker was promoted by Sheriff Woods to the rank of captain, although he had never negotiated the Lieutenant’s examination.”
The suit continues by alleging Walker discriminated against black academy applicants and that voiced claims surfaced that he was altering tests results for cadets along racial lines.
“The sheriff never took any observable action against Walker for the discriminatory actions claimed against black cadets seeking admission to the department,” the suit states.
“Capt. Walker also went into business ventures using his position … for personal business advantage.”
When she initiated a grievance, Chaisson “received messages that she is to be transferred to the jail or fired.”
Chaisson is seeking a TRO to keep the defendants from firing her, a violation of the Whistleblower Act.
She is also asking the court to order the defendants to pay her actual damages, back pay, front pay, court costs and attorney’s fees.
Missouri City attorney Larry Watts represents her.
Judge Bob Wortham, 58th District Court, is assigned to the case.
Case No. A194-315
Sheriff Mitch Woods accused of facilitating discrimination against black cadets
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