Gains calls for full disclosure in discrimination suit

Gains calls for full disclosure in discrimination suit

Mahoning County Prosecutor Paul J. Gains is calling on his Democratic primary opponent, Youngstown Prosecutor Jay Macejko, to support the unsealing of evidence in a religious discrimination lawsuit filed against the city and Macejko.

The Islamic Society of Greater Youngstown asked a federal judge to unseal documents and audiotapes submitted as evidence in the lawsuit filed by Bassil Ally, an assistant city prosecutor of Middle Eastern descent.

“The case is over and the public has an absolute right to know what happened,” Gains said.

Ally received a $110,000 lump sum payment and a $4,000 annual pay raise as well as a letter of apology from Macejko to settle the suit. Ally contended his boss and other city employees discriminated against him based on his Muslim faith.

Both sides agreed to have the judge’s decision sealed.

“The city is looking at this and filing a response,” said William Blanchard, Macejko’s campaign manager.

Macejko is challenging Gains in the March 6 Democratic primary.