HOUSTON — A U.S. Army Veteran is alleging the Aldine Independent School District refuses to allow her to have her service dog while at work.
Alisha Strife filed a complaint Jan. 18 in Harris County District Court against Aldine Independent School District (AISD) and others alleging violation of the Texas Human Resources Code and other claims.
Strife, a U.S. Army Veteran, according to her complaint, suffered long-term physical and psychological injuries after serving in the Iraq in 2004 and is employed by the AISD as a human resources project manager. She claims the AISD has refused to allow her to have her service dog "Independence" with her at work and is demanding she undergo a medical examination by "an AISD-retained doctor" before allowing her service dog in the office.
Strife also claims her service dog is specially trained and equipped to assist her with coping with her PTSD and "combat-related instability." Strife alleges the AISD is discriminating against her for her disability and that the AISD has a "custom" and policy of discrimination against disabled individuals.
Strife seeks monetary relief of more than $1 million, interest and all other just relief. She is represented by Attorney Scott Newar in Houston.
Harris County District Court case number 2023-03186