Sheriff's Deputy Fired for January 6 Protest Wins Major Settlement: An Overview
Sheriff's Deputy Fired for January 6 Protest Wins Large Settlement
Settlement Secured by Roxanne Mathai
Roxanne Mathai, a former sheriff’s deputy who was dismissed for participating in the protest in Washington on January 6, 2021, has won a significant settlement from Bexar County, Texas. At the time of the protest, Mathai was a lieutenant with the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO). She will receive $395,000 as part of the settlement, which was reached after she sued her former employer. Both parties involved in the case confirmed the details to The Epoch Times.
Mathai's Reaction to the Settlement
Mark Anthony Sanchez, Mathai's attorney, expressed satisfaction with the resolution, describing the settlement as a vindication for his client. Mathai also expressed her gratitude for the support she received from her attorney and those who stood by her during the difficult period. She believes the settlement sends a strong message against wrongful termination.
Bexar County's Response
Monica Ramos, a Bexar County spokesperson, stated that the decision to settle was made by the county's insurer. However, she emphasized that the county continues to deny any acts of discrimination or retaliation. Ramos also clarified that the settlement should not be seen as an admission of any wrongdoing or liability by Bexar County.
Mathai's Participation in the January 6 Protest
Mathai had posted images and videos from a rally for then-President Donald Trump in Washington, which took place just before the U.S. Capitol was breached. She moved towards the building after the rally, sharing her excitement about the day in her posts. However, Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar made it clear the following day that he intended to ensure Mathai would never enter a sheriff’s office building again, despite acknowledging her right to exercise her First Amendment rights.
Reasons for Mathai's Dismissal
Mathai was dismissed from the sheriff’s office in June 2021 after officials concluded she failed to report crimes and engaged in conduct unbecoming of an officer. An arbitrator upheld the termination, noting that Mathai should have been aware she was observing illegal activity while near the Capitol. Despite this, Mathai has not been charged with any crimes and there is no evidence to suggest she entered the Capitol.
Mathai's Lawsuit
In 2022, Mathai filed a lawsuit alleging violations of her constitutional rights. She claimed she had received permission from a superior to attend the pro-Trump rally and described herself as a “law-abiding citizen” who wanted to attend a peaceful event in support of the president. She also stated that she recorded video footage and photographs because she believed she “was a witness to history” and wanted to “create a record for posterity.”
Outcome of the Lawsuit
In 2023, an attempt by Bexar County officials to have the case dismissed was rejected by U.S. District Judge Xavier Rodriguez. He ruled that Mathai did not waive her rights to bring a federal claim. The Bexar County Commissioners Court approved a $100,000 payment to an outside insurance carrier, which allowed the carrier to take over the defense in the case. This sum was the deductible required under the insurance policy, so the insurer covered the remainder of the settlement. The case was dismissed by Judge Rodriguez on Tuesday.
Reactions to the Settlement
Sheriff Salazar maintained that the termination was done within policy and was upheld by an arbitrator. He stated that the decision to issue a settlement was made outside the BCSO and insisted there was no wrongdoing on the part of the administration.
