Trial Magazine

Sara Hough, a psychologist for the Los Angeles Department of Mental Health, began working as the head of men’s programs at the Twin Towers Correctional Facility. When she noticed civil rights violations against inmates, she brought this to the attention of David Fender, the acting chief of the sheriff’s department’s custody division. Fender allegedly requested that Hough be transferred out of the facility.

The following year, one of Hough’s subordinates allegedly began making discriminatory remarks to Hough based on her ethnicity and national origin. Another subordinate allegedly accused Hough of engaging in private practice during work hours and using county resources for personal use. Hough reported these incidents.

Fender asked for an investigation of Hough a few years later, which resulted in her being placed on administrative leave for several years. When she returned to work, she was demoted and provided no substantive work duties.

Hough sued Los Angeles County, alleging discrimination, retaliation, harassment, and failure to prevent retaliation and discrimination in violation of the Fair Employment and Housing Act. Suit also alleged retaliation in violation of the labor code.

The parties settled for $1.65 million.

Citation: Hough v. Cnty. of Los Angeles, No. 18STCV09247 (Cal. Super. Ct. Los Angeles Cnty. Feb. 29, 2024).

Plaintiff counsel: AAJ member Patrick McNicholas, Los Angeles; and Michael Kent, Redondo Beach, Calif.