The judge who heard government demands for sanctions against unionized police officers at an August bench trial is expected to rule by the end of the month. Police Commissioner Mario Brooks was among the witnesses who testified about an apparent job action taken in June by members of the Police Benevolent Association, Local 816.
Government witnesses testifying before Superior Court Judge Sigrid Tejo said daily operations at some police commands in St. Thomas-St. John was disrupted by absences in the ranks between June 15 and June 19. “Officers began calling in sick, and according to the VI Code, that action constitutes a strike,” said Justice Department attorney Eric Chancellor.
Chancellor, speaking on behalf of the V.I. Police Department, asked the court to issue an injunction against similar actions in the future. Brooks said he sought a temporary restraining order against the union and its leadership after seeing a copy of a letter issued by Local 816 President Joel Browne Connor.
Connor told his members it was their duty to report for work as scheduled but in the same letter, he commended the membership for demonstrating courage and commitment.
Brooks and Joss Springette from the Office of Collective Bargaining said the union is currently negotiating a new contract. “The current contract has expired and negotiations over a new contract are still underway,” Springette said.
Tejo ordered both sides to submit closing briefs in writing. Attorney Tonya Saafir, representing the union, said the government’s witnesses failed to prove there was any organized job action or that any such action was directed by leaders of Local 816.
“Plaintiffs failed to prove deliberate and concerted action,” Saaffir said. “Sporadic sick calls, without proof of coordinated intent, do not satisfy the statutory definition.”
The union is asking the court to dissolve the restraining order and deny the request for an injunction. In an order issued Aug. 14, Tejo said the order would remain in effect up until Aug. 29.
St. Croix Source
Local news, Police & Courts
