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United States District Court/ Direct
Frank Corrado/ Rossi, Barry, Corrado & Grassi, P.C.
The ACLU-NJ filed a lawsuit on behalf of Judy Shoudy, a first aid worker who was fired for having exercised her constitutionally-protected right to free speech, against the Roxbury Chemical Engine Company No. 1 and other related township defendants. Shoudy, a longtime member of the Roxbury Chemical Engine Company No. 1 and the Volunteer Fireman's Association, and the captain of Engine Company No. 1's First Aid Squad, was concerned about the dwindling First Aid Squad membership, believing that it had a serious affect on the squad's ability to make timely responses to rescue calls. She attempted to discuss the staffing problem with her superiors, but was rebuffed. In March of 2001, believing that the situation threatened the health, safety and welfare of township residents, Shoudy brought her concerns to the Roxbury Township Council. The council praised Shoudy for coming forward and unanimously voted to form a special committee to investigate and attempt to resolve the problem. Ten days later, the Roxbury Chemical Engine Company No. 1 removed Shoudy as a member with no notice. The complaint alleges that Roxbury violated the United States and New Jersey Constitutions by penalizing Shoudy for the exercise of her free speech rights regarding matters of public concern. The defendants moved for summary judgment in November 2002. In November 2004, the case successfully settled, with Ms. Shoudy receiving a monetary award and her job back.
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