PITTSBURGH — A City of Pittsburgh firefighter alleges he was denied a promotion due to his Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
Joseph M. Deresh filed a complaint March 30 in the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County against the City of Pittsburgh alleging violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Pennsylvania Human Relations Act.
According to his complaint, Deresh worked as a fire fighter for the City of Pittsburgh's Bureau of Fire from July 7, 1997, through July 2021. Deresh, who suffers from PTSD, claims he was able to perform the essential functions of his lieutenant and captain positions without reasonable accommodation.
Deresh alleges he was passed over for a promotion despite his good work record and eligibility. He claims that in June 2021, he took disability retirement due to a "shoulder condition" caused by a work-related injury and that if he had been promoted, he would have had a more "office-based" role and could have continued working. Deresh alleges he was denied the promotion due to his disability.
Deresh seeks monetary relief of more than $50,000, trial by jury and all other just relief. He is represented by Samuel Cordes and Cristina Correnti of Rotham Gordon PC in Pittsburgh.
Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County case number GD-22-3456