Is it legal to be fired for going to the police with information that can bring negative PR to your company?
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Is it legal to be fired for going to the police with information that can bring negative PR to your company?
I recently came across some information that could potentially help a murder investigation. I’m not sure how much it can help, however, this is not the point. The point is that when I brought this to the attention of my superiors I was told that if I did anything I would be fired, is this type of threat even legal? I was told I needed to choose between a clear conscience or my job.
Asked on January 6, 2012 under Employment Labor Law, Texas
Answers:
MD, Member, California Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
Here is the problem. What happened to you can be considered a few things. It can be considered as creating a hositle working condition, or work harassment and at the very top it can be considered as placing the company in the position of aiding and abetting a crime after the fact or obstructing justice. Most states have great whistleblower statutes that protect you from such workplace harassment. You may wish to get what you can to the police or if you are considered for your own safety and well being, you may wish to talk to a private lawyer who will solely represent you and can help be the go between between the police, your employer and you.
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