Allegations have surfaced against Chief Deputy Special Public Defender Ashley Sisolak and colleagues, including accusations of an anti-police atmosphere within the Clark County special public defender’s office.
The claims include hostile behavior, high turnover, and an environment allegedly intolerant towards law enforcement. Former and current employees paint a picture of a chaotic and hostile work environment, marked by divisive incidents and a culture perceived as anti-law enforcement.
The allegations include instances of employees displaying anti-police sentiments openly, contributing to a divisive atmosphere.
A retired California police detective filed a complaint citing incidents such as the display of a “Fuck The Police” sign in Ashley Sisolak’s office, adding that Sisolak took part in at least one anti-law enforcement activity. The complaint further alleges that a pro-police mug brought by the retired detective triggered a series of retaliatory actions, including an employee wearing a “Blue Lives Murder” shirt and derogatory comments in group chat messages.
Clark County spokesperson Erik Pappa denied a records request for documents related to HR complaints made against the office. State law does not exempt personnel records from release under the Nevada Public Records Act.
SEIU Local 1107, the union representing some county employees, has filed a grievance, asserting violations of the union contract and the county’s zero-tolerance policy against discrimination.
Ashley Sisolak, daughter of former Governor Steve Sisolak, was hired in 2016 when her father chaired the Clark County Commission. State law prohibits top government officials from employing relatives at agencies they head.
The former Governor denied involvement in his daughter’s hiring.
The office, responsible for handling murder cases and felonies carrying life sentences, has witnessed a high turnover rate, with approximately 22 of its 40 employees leaving since 2016. The recent allegations contribute to concerns about workplace culture and its impact on staff well-being.
Assistant Special Public Defender Jordan Savage, named in the complaint, announced his retirement, citing the conduct of others under review and the resulting divisiveness as factors influencing his decision.
The county’s response to similar allegations has been under scrutiny, with past investigations revealing oversight failures in different county departments.
Complaints filed by employees, such as those from the retired detective and former legal assistant Karen Meyer, highlight concerns about workplace harassment and its effects on mental health. The Nevada Equal Rights Commission and the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission have received complaints from the retired detective.
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