Judge Backs Alabama Sheriff’s Office in Firing Over Online Posts

An Alabama federal judge dismissed a deputy sheriff’s allegations of religious discrimination and retaliation against the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office, deeming his termination over social media posts justified.

There was no evidence of bias or retaliation regarding BCSO’s disciplinary actions and Anthony Kiel’s ultimate resignation over his social media posts about homosexuality and a woman’s right to vote, Judge Terry F. Moorer of the US District Court for the Southern District of Alabama found in granting summary judgment for the sheriff’s office Tuesday.

Kiel’s supervisor’s comments, including that he was a “Bible- thumping asshole,” didn’t constitute direct evidence of discrimination ...