Orland Park: Arbitrator Rules in Favor of Former Sgt. William Sanchez in Discrimination Case
In a long-standing dispute between the Village of Orland Park and former police sergeant William Sanchez, an arbitrator has ruled in favor of Sanchez, who was terminated following an investigation into claims of discrimination by department leaders. The decision, which came nearly a year after Sanchez’s termination in February 2024, brings an end to the arbitration process.
Background
Sanchez, who identifies as Hispanic, claimed that he had been discriminated against by then-Deputy Chief Brian West and Chief Eric Rossi, accusing them of racial discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. Sanchez’s grievance, filed with the Orland Park Police Supervisors Association, asserted that he had been passed over for promotions due to his national origin.
Investigation and Findings
The Village conducted a private investigation, which concluded that there was no evidence of discrimination against Sanchez. However, West filed a complaint of his own, alleging that Sanchez had created a hostile work environment. The Village found this claim to be valid, leading to Sanchez’s termination.
Arbitration Hearing
During the arbitration hearing, Sanchez’s attorneys argued that the Village had relied mostly on hearsay evidence to move forward with his firing. The Village, in turn, maintained that the investigation and its contents were a “business record.” Sanchez was given a post-termination hearing procedure before the Board of Fire and Police Commissioners, but he elected to proceed via arbitration.
Arbitrator’s Decision
Arbitrator James Dworkin determined that the Village did not have just cause to terminate Sanchez. Instead, other disciplinary actions could have been taken, such as a written warning or suspension. Dworkin also noted that Sanchez was a long-term employee with a good record, having served in the department for 20 years without any disciplinary action.
Impact on the Community
For the residents of Orland Park, this decision may bring a sense of closure to a contentious situation that has been ongoing for over a year. However, it also highlights the importance of fair and impartial investigations in the workplace, as well as the potential consequences of relying too heavily on hearsay evidence.
Impact on the World
Beyond Orland Park, this case serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in discrimination claims and the importance of thorough investigations. It also underscores the need for clear and consistent disciplinary procedures in the workplace.
Conclusion
The arbitrator’s decision in the Orland Park discrimination case marks the end of a lengthy dispute between the Village and former police sergeant William Sanchez. While the decision brings closure to the situation, it also highlights the importance of fair and impartial investigations and the potential consequences of relying on hearsay evidence. As the world continues to grapple with issues of discrimination and workplace fairness, cases like this serve as valuable learning experiences.
- Former Orland Park police sergeant William Sanchez was terminated following an investigation into discrimination claims against department leaders.
- Sanchez, who identified as Hispanic, claimed racial discrimination, harassment, and retaliation, naming then-Deputy Chief Brian West and Chief Eric Rossi.
- A private investigation cleared West and Rossi of any wrongdoing, but Sanchez was found to have created a hostile work environment.
- Arbitrator James Dworkin determined that the Village did not have just cause to terminate Sanchez and instead recommended other disciplinary actions.
- The decision brings closure to a contentious situation but also highlights the importance of fair and impartial investigations and clear disciplinary procedures in the workplace.
