Neighbor News
Mixed-Race Couple - Civil Suit Alleging Discrimination and Retaliation
Whitpain Residents Accuse Police Officials of Racial Bias, Mishandling Burglary Investigation, and Retaliatory Legal Action
Scott Testa, a property owner in Blue Bell, Pennsylvania, has filed a civil lawsuit against Whitpain Township Police Chief Kenneth Lawson and Detective Sergeant Thomas Wittig, alleging violations of his constitutional rights. The complaint claims that the police mishandled a burglary investigation involving Testa's rental property and retaliated against him and his partner, Hulda , for pressing for proper legal action.
The lawsuit details a series of events beginning with a September 2024 burglary at one of Testa's properties, during which $30,000 worth of possessions were stolen or damaged. Despite evidence implicating suspects Jeffrey Cassera and Brent Bower—including surveillance footage and physical evidence—police failed to pursue felony charges. Instead, minor charges of disorderly conduct and harassment were filed against Bower, while Cassera faced no charges.
Testa alleges that the police's inaction stemmed from racial bias against his relationship with Hulda, who is Black. The suit accuses the officers of harboring discriminatory beliefs about mixed-race couples and claims this bias influenced their decisions. Additionally, the plaintiffs assert that the township retaliated.
The lawsuit includes claims of First Amendment retaliation and violations of the Equal Protection Clause under the Fourteenth Amendment. Testa seeks compensatory and punitive damages for the alleged misconduct and demands a jury trial. The case highlights concerns about racial discrimination, misuse of authority, and accountability within law enforcement.
