Judge Refuses to Prevent L.A. From Replacing Zoo Chief
A federal judge today refused to bar the city from hiring a replacement for fired zoo Director Warren D. Thomas, who has sued in an effort to regain the $73,000-a-year job.
“If they (the zoo) don’t have someone, the city may suffer,” U.S. District Judge William Rea said. “But if Thomas is successful, he can be reinstated and get back pay.”
Thomas had sought a temporary restraining order forbidding the city to hire a permanent replacement until the suit is settled.
The suit contends that Thomas, 56, was denied due process, that his civil rights were violated and that he was denied an opportunity to contest his dismissal at a disciplinary hearing June 3. It says he was not notified of the hearing until May 29, leaving him and his attorney inadequate time to prepare a defense.
Named as defendants are the city and James E. Hadaway, general manager of the Department of Recreation and Parks.
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