Mixed-race scuba officer says New York Police Department colleagues racially discriminated
NEW YORK, N.Y. – A mixed-race police officer with painted toenails has accused fellow officers in a New York Police Department scuba unit of discriminating against him by calling him a transsexual and a descendant of slaves.
The accusations are contained in a civil lawsuit announced on Thursday by lawyers for Oscar Smith against the city and five officers.
The lawsuit alleges supervisors and officers abused Smith by expressing open disbelief a black man could pass a swimming test. It also says the NYPD unfairly denied him promotions and overtime based on his race.
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It seeks millions of dollars in damages.
Court papers describe Smith as a mixed-race African-American and an avid diver and surfer. They say painting toenails is common for surfers.
The city’s Law Department says it’s reviewing the matter.
