Lifeguard Captain Sues San Diego Over Chief Appointment

Maureen Hodges, San Diego’s only female lifeguard captain and a 20-year department veteran, is suing the city, alleging sex discrimination after she was not allowed to apply or interview for the chief position. Her lawsuit says she expressed interest after Chief James Gartland left the job and an interim chief indicated she could be considered, but the city appointed Daniel Orloff four days later. A city investigation found that Gartland and two sergeants mishandled a sexual harassment complaint, preceding Gartland’s departure. Orloff, a former lifeguard sergeant who later worked as a deputy city attorney, was alleged by Hodges to have substantially less lifeguard experience and to be less qualified; the fire-rescue chief praised his operational, legal, policy, labor and leadership experience. City officials declined to comment because of the pending litigation, and Hodges is seeking damages and an injunction requiring the city to better protect employees from discrimination.