TOPEKA (KSNT) – A federal judge determined the City of Topeka did not discriminate against a former Topeka firefighter.
Brentley Dorsey was not selected for promotion because he scored lowest amongst seven candidates, not because he was disabled and Black, according to Wednesday’s ruling by Holly Teeter.
Dorsey filed the claim in 2023, claiming he was not promoted to fire inspector, fire marshal or fire chief because of his race and because he had leukemia. He claims white employees with less experience were promoted instead.
Governor’s Warrant used to extradite accused killer, kidnapper back to Kansas
The city said it promoted the candidates who scored highest and were most energetic, according to court records.
The other firefighter who was not promoted, Barbara Hack, sued the city for sex discrimination. Her case is set to be heard by a jury in December. Hack, who has decades of experience with the Topeka Fire Department, said she was passed over for multiple promotions because she’s a woman.
For more local news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here.
