A federal judge has declined to dismiss a lawsuit filed by four Asian American residents of Siskiyou County, California, alleging racial discrimination in the county’s water policies and law enforcement practices.
U.S. District Court Chief Judge Kimberly Mueller found that the plaintiffs have sufficiently stated claims of equal protection violations and improper search and seizure against the county and Sheriff Jeremiah LaRue.
Key points from the judge’s decision:
- The repeal of certain water ordinances does not make the case moot, as similar legislation was enacted shortly after.
- The plaintiffs have adequately alleged facts demonstrating concerted actions by the defendants that are unlikely to have occurred without an agreement.
- Statistical evidence shows disproportionate impacts on Asian Americans:
- Over 80% of liens from a cannabis-related ordinance affected Asian Americans.
- Asian American motorists were stopped at rates almost 60% higher during daylight hours.
- Traffic stops involving Asian Americans took 56% longer than those for non-Asians.
- The judge found that the plaintiffs’ allegations went beyond “naked assertions” or “conclusory statements,” citing evidence of gross statistical disparities and a history of racial animus against Asian Americans in the county.
- The court rejected arguments that the searches and seizures were based on reasonable suspicion, noting specific instances where plaintiffs were stopped and searched without clear justification.
The case will now proceed, with a hearing on class certification scheduled for September 13. The plaintiffs seek to represent all Asian Americans who live, own property, or travel by vehicle in Siskiyou County.
This ruling allows the plaintiffs to continue their challenge against what they claim are discriminatory practices targeting the Asian American community in Siskiyou County.
source: Courthouse News Service
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