Former Seattle Police Chief Adrian Diaz has filed a $10 million tort claim against the City of Seattle, accusing the city of wrongful termination, discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. Diaz’s legal claim was submitted on October 11, 2024, just prior to his placement on administrative leave. Central to Diaz’s allegations is that the city took adverse actions against him after he disclosed his sexual orientation to Mayor Bruce Harrell and Deputy Mayor Tim Burgess, as well as after he refused to comply with an unspecified illegal directive. This claim signals a contentious dispute following a series of events that have brought significant public scrutiny to the Seattle Police Department (SPD).
The controversy surrounding Diaz began in May 2024 when Mayor Bruce Harrell announced Diaz’s reassignment to a special projects role amid multiple allegations of sexual harassment and racial discrimination within the SPD. Several officers came forward with complaints, including Captain Eric Greening, who filed a lawsuit accusing Diaz of fostering a discriminatory work environment. These allegations intensified tensions within the police department and drew attention from city officials and the public alike.
An official investigation conducted by the Office of Inspector General (OIG) into these allegations culminated in December 2024 with Diaz’s termination. The OIG uncovered evidence that Diaz had engaged in a romantic relationship with his former chief of staff, Jamie Tompkins—an assertion Diaz had denied. Key evidence included a handwritten note from Tompkins found in a department-issued vehicle, which handwriting experts confirmed was likely authored by her. Additionally, the investigation revealed that Diaz made false statements regarding the nature of their relationship, violating SPD policies on honesty and professionalism.
Despite the findings of the OIG, Diaz has consistently denied all allegations, describing the investigation as flawed and accusing the city of mishandling evidence. He maintains that his firing was a retaliatory act directly linked to his sexual orientation and his refusal to comply with unlawful instructions. Diaz’s lawsuit seeks compensation for damages resulting from what he characterizes as wrongful dismissal, harassment, and discrimination.
This legal claim is poised to escalate into a high-profile lawsuit that could have significant implications for the City of Seattle and its police department. The case sheds light on ongoing issues of workplace discrimination, transparency, and accountability within law enforcement agencies. As the situation develops, it will be critical to monitor the legal proceedings and the response from city officials, police representatives, and advocacy groups focused on civil rights and workplace equality.
By filing this $10 million claim, Adrian Diaz draws attention to the complex challenges faced by public officials who navigate personal identity, workplace ethics, and public service. The outcome of this case may set important precedents related to employee rights, discrimination claims, and the responsibilities of municipal governments to uphold fair and lawful employment practices. Seattle residents, legal experts, and civil rights advocates will likely follow this story closely as it unfolds.
