A man who wanted to become an Atlanta police officer tells FOX 5 he was rejected because his blood test came back HIV positive. The unnamed man hired a lawyer and sued the city, and on Tuesday afternoon, city officials agreed to settle the claim for $250,000, which is sure to sting taxpayers' wallets.
The man field legal action in 2008, and was given the false name Richard Roe for the court proceedings. His lawyer said the city utilized "myths, fears, negative reactions and stereotypes" to deny his application.
The man submitted an independent medical review which included a statement from a nurse. In that statement, the nurse said, "His (unnamed police recruit) condition was well-controlled and not transmitted through casual human contact."
The city argued there was no discrimination in this case, but top city officials argue the practice that had been followed for more than two decades was to not let HIV positive candidates through. Now, they say, that has all changed. Currently, officials say there are several officers on the force who are indeed HIV positive, and they have undergone exhaustive tests to ensure they are able to do their jobs successfully despite their conditions.
CLICK ON THE VIDEO ABOVE TO WATCH MORSE DIGGS' FULL REPORT.
Thursday, May 23 2013 10:44 PM EDT2013-05-24 02:44:36 GMT
The fox responsible for biting two Newton County elementary school students while they played on their school's playground remains on the loose.
The fox that bit two Newton County elementary school students while they played on the playground is still on the loose. Animal control authorities tell FOX 5 someone from Rocky Plains Elementary School reported a fox sighting on campus one day before the boys were attacked.
Thursday, May 23 2013 10:35 PM EDT2013-05-24 02:35:19 GMT
State leaders and military dignitaries took part in an annual Memorial Day ceremony at the state Capitol on Thursday.
State leaders and military dignitaries took part in an annual Memorial Day ceremony at the state Capitol on Thursday. Gov. Nathan Deal took part in solemn salute of those who lost their lives while serving our country.
Thursday, May 23 2013 10:26 PM EDT2013-05-24 02:26:47 GMT
The jury has found Michael Parson guilty on all eight counts in the shooting of his wife outside their Sandy Springs apartment.The woman, Adina Parson, survived after being shot eight times.
The jury has found Michael Parson guilty on all eight counts in the shooting of his wife outside their Sandy Springs apartment.The woman, Adina Parson, survived after being shot eight times.
1551 Briarcliff Rd., NE Atlanta, GA 30306
Main Number: (404) 875-5555 News Tips: (404) 898-0100
