Ex-worker loses suit against treasurer (refused an order to illegally create a computer program)

[Omaha Steve]

http://www.omaha.com/article/20101212/NEWS01/712129886/0#ex-worker-loses-suit-against-treasurer

Published Sunday December 12, 2010

The Associated Press

A former employee in the Nebraska Treasurer’s Office has lost his lawsuit claiming he was pushed out after he refused an order to illegally create a computer program that would prevent employees from filing for overtime.

The lawsuit filed in September 2008 by Robert Harrison of Lincoln was dismissed Friday after a Lancaster County District Court jury ruled for the state. Harrison had sued his former bosses, including outgoing Treasurer Shane Osborn. The trial began Nov. 29, and jurors deliberated 11 hours before returning a 10-2 verdict.

Harrison’s attorney, Kathleen Neary, said Saturday that despite the loss, she was proud to represent Harrison.

“Robert Harrison stood up for what he knew was right, stood up (against) what he knew was illegal and it cost him his job,” she said.

Nebraska Attorney General Jon Bruning said he was pleased “the jury agreed there was no wrongdoing on the part of the state or its officials.”

Harrison said in the lawsuit that state managers approached him in early 2008 about creating a timecard program that would prevent hourly employees working more than 40 hours from receiving overtime pay. Harrison said he was told the program was needed because some employees were taking longer lunches or other breaks and then claiming undeserved overtime.

FULL story at link.

[redirish28]

1. Amazing. Someone stands up for his fellow workers and We see him get screwed.