News Summary
A jury in San Diego has ruled that Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer is liable for harassment and retaliation against Tracy Miller, a former high-ranking female prosecutor. The jury awarded Miller $3 million in damages, highlighting a toxic work environment within the DA’s office for women. Miller’s bravery in defending fellow prosecutors against harassment was a significant factor in the retaliation she faced. This case underlines the need for reforms to ensure a safe working environment for all staff in the office.
San Diego, CA – A jury in San Diego County found Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer liable for harassment and retaliation against Tracy Miller, a former high-ranking female prosecutor in his office. The jury’s verdict determined that Spitzer acted with malice against Miller after she raised concerns about his conduct and endeavored to protect other prosecutors from sexual harassment.
The jury also ruled that Orange County was liable for taking “adverse employment action” against Miller and for failing to prevent workplace harassment. Consequently, the jury awarded Miller a total of $3 million in damages, which includes $1.5 million for past emotional distress and an additional $25,000 in punitive damages against Spitzer.
Miller, who was the highest-ranking woman in the Orange County prosecutor’s office during the allegations, faced a hostile work environment sustained by both Spitzer and his administration. Though Spitzer acknowledged some responsibility for the actions within his office, he did not directly address the allegations of retaliation or harassment against Miller.
Miller’s attorney emphasized her bravery in standing up against powerful figures in law enforcement and the jury’s acceptance of her experiences. The case highlighted a dire working atmosphere for female prosecutors within the Office of the District Attorney, which has reportedly seen claims of threats and a culture of undervaluation.
Miller testified about the gender-based slurs and attempts to undermine her authority, particularly following her testimony during an investigation into the harassment of other women in the office. Allegations also suggested that Spitzer may have violated the Racial Justice Act by referencing race improperly in decision-making related to the death penalty.
Testimonies during the trial illustrated a pervasive culture of intimidation, with numerous prosecutors asserting they faced threats of demotion or termination. Former Chief Assistant District Attorney Shawn Nelson was co-defendant in the case, accused of contributing to a hostile work environment concerning the sexual harassment claims.
The verdict shines a light on systemic issues present within the Orange County District Attorney’s office, including eight other sexual harassment lawsuits associated with former supervisor Gary LoGalbo. Spitzer articulated difficulties stemming from opposition presented by employees loyal to former District Attorney Tony Rackauckas, expressing emotional distress over the trial’s outcomes.
The civil trial’s structure allowed for non-unanimous jury decisions, leading to varying levels of support among jurors regarding Miller’s claims against the defendants. Spitzer has served as district attorney since his election in 2018, acknowledging that challenges faced due to the office’s tumultuous history were anticipated. It is notable that Miller’s actions defending other female employees from harassment were a significant catalyst for the retaliatory actions she subsequently faced from Spitzer and his administration.
This case serves as a crucial indicator of ongoing challenges within the workplace culture of the Orange County District Attorney’s office, prompting necessary discussions about the treatment of female employees and the imperative need for reforms to ensure a safe working environment for all personnel.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- Orange County Business Journal: Women in Law 2025
- Daily Journal: OC Attorney Detained in ICE Raid
- LA Times: Orange County DA Retaliated Against Female Prosecutor
- Green Matters: Razavi Law Group Sponsors OCWTLA Event
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Workplace Harassment
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTINGTON BEACH
The Huntington Beach Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntington Beach, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Huntington Beach Surf City USA Marathon, the U.S. Open of Surfing, Fourth of July celebrations at the Huntington Beach Pier, and community festivals at Huntington Beach Central Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntington Beach Chamber of Commerce and Visit Huntington Beach, plus leading businesses in retail, hospitality, and outdoor recreation that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
