Pennsylvania State police Officers File Lawsuit Alleging Retaliation
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Two Pennsylvania State police officers have filed a federal lawsuit alleging they faced a antagonistic work surroundings and were demoted after submitting a report detailing misconduct. The suit, filed Monday in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania,names Governor Josh Shapiro,State Police Lt.Col. George Bivens, Major Norman Cramer, and ten unnamed defendants as parties.
Allegations of Retaliation
The lawsuit centers around a report submitted by officer Dougherty on February 13, 2025. Following the report’s submission, the suit alleges that Major Norman Cramer became “dissatisfied” with Dougherty and created a hostile work environment for both Dougherty and fellow officer Felsman. Other employees at the Troop P Wilkes-Barre headquarters in Hanover Township reportedly experienced this hostile environment whenever Cramer was present.
The plaintiffs claim their careers were negatively impacted consequently. Dougherty was reassigned on July 2nd to a newly created position as assistant director with the Municipal Police Officers’ education and Training Commission. felsman was removed from his role as criminal unit section commander and transferred to a position described as a “phony” special projects commander role in July 2025. He has since been moved again, now serving as patrol section commander at Troop R in Dunmore.
Key Defendants and Recent Leadership Changes
the lawsuit names several high-ranking officials within the Pennsylvania State Police. Governor Josh Shapiro is named in his official capacity. Lt.Col. George Bivens was recently appointed as acting state police commissioner by Shapiro on December 17, 2024, and officially assumed the role on January 2, 2025, following the retirement of Col. Christopher L. Paris. https://www.governor.pa.gov/news/governor-shapiro-announces-george-bivens-as-acting-state-police-commissioner/
The suit also lists Major Norman Cramer as a key figure in the alleged retaliation. Ten additional individuals are named as “John and jane Does,” suggesting further examination may reveal additional parties involved.
Court Assignment
The case has been assigned to U.S. District Court judge Karoline Mehalchick.
Key Takeaways:
* Two Pennsylvania state Police officers are suing the state, alleging retaliation for submitting a misconduct report.
* The lawsuit alleges a hostile work environment created by major Norman Cramer.
* Both officers were reassigned to new positions following the report’s submission, which they claim were demotions.
* governor Josh Shapiro and acting State Police Commissioner George Bivens are named as defendants.
This case is ongoing, and further developments will likely emerge as the legal process unfolds. It highlights potential issues within the Pennsylvania State Police and raises questions about the protection of whistleblowers within the organization.
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