A former Centralia Correctional Center officer has filed a federal lawsuit over his dismissal for what he says is for failing to follow the mandatory masking policy during COVID-19.
Garrett Rose of Salem cited religious grounds for not wearing a mask from March to May 2022 where he was denied entry to the prison each day.
The suit indicates Rose initially complied with the mandate, but says he was then convinced by Scripture and conscience that the mask violated his duty to obey God. He reportedly was the only person terminated statewide for violation of the masking policy.
According to the lawsuit, the termination came after a suspension as a result of discipline records. A grievance hearing was held where a recommendation of termination was made. The warden at the time accepted the resignation that was later acted upon by the IDOC Director in June 2022.
Rose is seeking lost wages and benefits, compensation for emotional distress and punitive damages of no less than $200,000.
The suit names former IDOC Director Rob Jeffreys, former Centralia warden Tom Austin and employees Billie Bryan and Reginald Hammonds as defendants.
