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For Immediate Release
July 23, 2001
Newark, NJ — The American Civil Liberties Union of New Jersey announced today that it filed a lawsuit against the Roxbury Chemical Engine Company No. 1, and other related defendants, on behalf of a first aid worker who was fired for having exercised her constitutionally-protected right to free speech.
Judy Shoudy was a long-time member of the Roxbury Chemical Engine Company No. 1, and the Volunteer Fireman's Association, and was captain of Engine Company No. 1's First Aid Squad. She was concerned about the dwindling First Aid Squad membership, believing that it was having a serious affect on the squad's ability to make timely response to rescue calls. Shoudy attempted to discuss the staffing problem with her superiors but was either ignored or told not to worry about it. In March of this year, 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. Shoudy was given no prior notice of the removal action.
The complaint alleges that Roxbury violated the First Amendment of the United States Constitution and Article I, paragraphs 6 and 18 of the New Jersey Constitution, by penalizing Shoudy for the exercise of her free speech rights regarding matters of public concern. The complaint also alleges both substantive and procedural due process violations.
The plaintiff is represented by Frank Corrado of the Wildwood firm Rossi, Barry, Corrado & Grassi, P.C., and by Ed Barocas and J.C. Salyer of the American Civil Liberties Union of New Jersey Foundation. The lawsuit, captioned Shoudy v. Roxbury Chemical Engine Company Number 1, et al., was filed by mail on Friday, July 20, 2001.
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