New York, NY – A federal judge has issued a mixed ruling in a workplace discrimination case brought by a former narcotics investigator against the New York State Department of Health, allowing some of the claims to move forward while dismissing others.
Background of the case
Plaintiff Chareé Carey, a former Investigative Specialist with the Bureau of Narcotic Enforcement (BNE), sued the New York State Department of Health (DOH) and several supervisors, alleging sex discrimination, a hostile work environment, and retaliation. Carey joined the agency in September 2021 after two decades in federal law enforcement.
Her role at BNE involved inspections and oversight of controlled substance handling. During her year-long probationary period, she reported to Senior Investigator Danny Vazquez, who in turn reported to Chief Investigator Michael Shelhamer and BNE Director Joshua Vinciguerra. Carey’s lawsuit also named other supervisors, including Rick Boettcher and unidentified John and Jane Doe defendants.
Court’s ruling
U.S. District Judge Lorna G. Schofield granted in part and denied in part the defendants’ motions for summary judgment. The decision dismissed some of Carey’s claims but preserved others, ensuring the case will proceed to trial or further litigation on surviving counts.
The court noted that Carey’s Title VII claims against DOH, along with certain NYSHRL and NYCHRL claims against individual supervisors, presented disputes of fact that must be resolved by a jury. However, other claims were dismissed, narrowing the scope of the case.
What comes next
The decision means Carey will still have the opportunity to argue her remaining claims in court, keeping alive allegations that she was subjected to workplace discrimination and retaliation during her time at BNE. The ruling also underscores the heightened scrutiny on state agencies and managers facing bias allegations under both federal and New York law.
Key Points
- Former narcotics investigator Chareé Carey sued the New York State Department of Health, alleging sex discrimination, retaliation, and hostile work environment.
- Judge Lorna G. Schofield dismissed some claims but allowed others to proceed, meaning the case will continue.
- The lawsuit targets both the DOH and multiple individual supervisors in the Bureau of Narcotic Enforcement.
The fight over Carey’s treatment at the health department is now far from over.