BREAKING: A federal jury has just awarded $1.7 million to two whistleblowers from the Camden Housing Authority, confirming their wrongful termination after reporting serious allegations of fraud. This pivotal verdict, delivered on November 18, 2024, underscores the urgent need for accountability in public agencies.
Gary Evangelista, the agency’s former director of security, and Kaberia Fussell, a housing specialist, were dismissed on December 19, 2018, following their attempts to expose misconduct, including unpaid rent, misuse of housing units, and possible theft. Rather than investigating these claims, the housing authority opted to terminate both employees, leading to a whistleblower lawsuit filed in 2020.
The jury’s decision not only reinstates the importance of protecting whistleblowers but also highlights the repercussions faced by those who dare to speak out. The U.S. District Court ruled against the agency’s earlier attempts to dismiss the case, allowing the employees’ claims to be heard in court.
The jury ordered the Camden Housing Authority to pay Evangelista a total of $510,891 for lost earnings, $750,000 in compensatory damages, and $2,500 in punitive damages. Fussell will receive $450,000 in compensatory damages along with $2,500 for punitive damages.
In a powerful statement, Fussell, who successfully appealed her termination and returned to work, expressed that the verdict offered her “long-awaited vindication.” Evangelista shared his relief, describing the award as “giving me my life back after six years,” reflecting the emotional toll of their fight against injustice.
This landmark case sends a critical message about the protection of employees who report wrongdoing, reminding agencies that retaliation will not go unpunished. The implications of this ruling could reverberate throughout public sector organizations across the country.
As this story develops, many are left wondering how the Camden Housing Authority will respond. Will they implement changes to prevent future retaliation against whistleblowers?
Stay tuned for further updates on this significant case as it unfolds.