A former assistant to Carson Councilwoman Arleen Bocatija Rojas has filed a lawsuit alleging she improperly tasked him with personal duties and misused city resources. Justin Battle claims he was terminated after raising concerns about these alleged actions and refusing to comply with requests he deemed inappropriate.
Allegations Detail Extensive Personal Requests
According to the lawsuit, filed in 2024, Battle alleges Rojas required him to be available “24/7” for personal errands. These included mowing her lawn, planning vacations, and picking up dry cleaning. He also claims he was asked to track the phone usage of Rojas’ daughter using LAPD email authorization.
The lawsuit further alleges that Rojas asked Battle to monitor the movements of Councilmember Jim Dear, specifically tracking when Dear’s girlfriend or wife would abandon home, and to record any resulting activity. Battle states he refused this request.
City Disputes Claims, Cites Performance Issues
Attorneys for the city of Carson argue that Battle’s termination was due to performance-related issues, not any alleged misconduct. They point to Battle’s concurrent employment at an LAUSD middle school, where he worked 30 hours a week, and claim his schedule conflicted with the demands of his position as a council aide.
City attorneys also contend that Battle has not met the criteria to substantiate a whistleblower claim and that the case lacks sufficient grounds to proceed. Battle served as Rojas’ council aide from March 2023 until his position was terminated in November of the same year.
What’s Next?
A jury trial is scheduled for June. It is possible the case will proceed to trial, where evidence will be presented and a jury will decide the merits of Battle’s claims. Alternatively, a settlement could be reached between the parties before the trial date. It is also possible the judge could dismiss the case prior to trial if new information comes to light or if legal arguments prevail.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the central allegations in the lawsuit?
The lawsuit alleges that Justin Battle was improperly tasked with personal duties for Councilwoman Arleen Bocatija Rojas, including household chores and using LAPD resources to track individuals, and that he was terminated after raising concerns about these actions.
How is the city of Carson responding to the lawsuit?
The city’s attorneys argue that Battle was terminated for legitimate performance reasons related to scheduling conflicts with his second job at an LAUSD middle school and that he has not met the requirements to pursue a whistleblower claim.
When is the trial scheduled to take place?
A jury trial is currently scheduled for June.
How might the balance between professional responsibilities and personal requests impact the ethical boundaries within public service?
Related reading