There is so much life beyond a place that hurt you.
Alicia Fitzpatrick, M.S., LCSW.
Former officer. Trauma therapist.
Five chapters, from the officer she was to the therapist she is. Every one is backed by the record.
“If you are silent about your pain, they’ll kill you and say you enjoyed it.”
By the record
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0 write-ups before she was picked for K-9
Independent investigation report, Austin Institute, LLC, December 20, 2020, p. 10 -
5 complaints against her in the five months after
Independent investigation report, Austin Institute, LLC, December 20, 2020, pp. 4 to 8 -
8 of 90 officer positions held by women
Independent investigation report, Austin Institute, LLC, December 20, 2020, p. 13 -
53 days from the finding to the city calling it unfounded
City manager’s memo, February 11, 2021
Harassment, discrimination or retaliation in your own department
Alicia wrote this site for women in law enforcement who are where she was: doubted, written up, watched, and still showing up to work. Start with the question that’s keeping you up.
- Am I imagining this?Probably not. Write it down and look at the pattern.
- How do I document harassment at my department?A private, dated record, kept on your own device.
- Should I report it inside my department?Usually yes, in writing, and keep a copy.
- What are the deadlines to file a complaint?They are short. In Texas, act within 180 days to be safe.
- What counts as retaliation after a complaint?Punishing you for speaking up is illegal on its own.
- How do I find an employment lawyer?Look for one who represents employees, and bring your record.
- How do I take care of myself while this is happening?You don’t have to carry it alone, and you shouldn’t.
In her words
“I am proud of the officer I was. I am proud that I kept going. And I have never felt more honored to do the work I am doing now.”
Alicia Fitzpatrick
Read her whole statementTalk to someone who has been there
Alicia reads every message herself. You don’t need to give your name or your department.