Fired employee sues agency over loss of job

5/13/2006

A former employee of the Lucas County Community Partnership, which tries to address alcohol, tobacco, and drug prevention, yesterday sued the group and its executive director for firing her after she accused him of financial irregularities.

Colleen LaChapelle, who began working for the organization, 5902 Southwyck Blvd., in May, 2005, alleges in her lawsuit that Deacon Dzierzawski used funds to pay for personal items, double dipping on payroll, [and] over expensing mileage.

She alleges Mr. Dzierzawski locked her out of files and that she was fired Feb. 3.

Mr. Dzierzawski said yesterday that he was not aware of the suit filed in Lucas County Common Pleas Court and declined to comment.

Ms. LaChapelle is asking to be reinstated in her position with benefits, back wages, and attorney fees.

The Community Partnership is partially funded through the Lucas County Alcohol and Drug Addiction Services Board.