Top Cop's Litigation Blues

Citizens of Monroe are questioning why the city administration is still pursuing legal action against former Police Chief Reggie Brown and former Police Communication Officer Sergeant Chuck Johnson after four years. Ouachita Parish District Court Judge Robert L. Johnson has overturned the city's decision on Johnson, and a Second Circuit Court of Appeal panel has done the same for Brown. Despite these rulings, Mayor Friday Ellis has instructed his city attorney to continue appealing these cases, aiming to prevent the two men from reclaiming their jobs. Many residents view this as a witch hunt and are concerned about the resources spent by the city, including hiring attorneys from Alexandria. The costs associated with the case, including back pay owed to Brown and Johnson, are rising, with estimates suggesting the city's total debt may exceed $1 million including legal fees. Reliable sources indicate that some city council members are considering an investigation into this matter.