A retired Sonoma County Sheriff’s deputy is suing the county, alleging decades of racial discrimination and a “toxic” work environment.
According to the Press Democrat, Marcus Holton, who is Black, served 22 years on the force as a SWAT member and field training officer. In an 83-page lawsuit filed last week, Holton claims he was passed over for promotions more than a dozen times in favor of less-qualified white colleagues.
The suit details a “good old boys club” culture, alleging Holton endured racist slurs from coworkers—including a comment that “Black people can’t swim”—and saw a confiscated “I can’t breathe” sign displayed in a briefing room for weeks.
The Sheriff’s Office says it cannot comment on active litigation but maintains it takes all allegations of discrimination seriously. Holton is seeking unspecified damages for what he calls an “intolerable” workplace that forced his retirement earlier this year.