Chicago Aviation Sergeant Fired for Neglect of Duty

Appellate court upholds termination for insubordination and safety lapses

Apr. 13, 2026 at 7:09pm

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A dimly lit, cinematic scene of an empty airport security checkpoint, with warm sunlight streaming in through the windows and deep shadows cast across the floor and walls, conveying a sense of quiet contemplation about the consequences of neglecting public safety responsibilities.The termination of a public safety employee for neglect of duty raises questions about accountability and discipline in government agencies.Chicago Today

An Illinois appellate court has affirmed the decision of the Chicago Human Resources Board to discharge an aviation security sergeant who was found to have neglected his duties during one shift and disobeyed direct orders from superiors on a subsequent shift, actions that the court ruled demonstrated substantial shortcomings rendering his continued employment detrimental to the city's Department of Aviation.

Why it matters

The case highlights the authority of municipal governments to terminate public employees for cause, even in roles related to public safety, and the deference courts often give to administrative agency decisions when there is evidence to support the disciplinary action.

The details

The aviation security sergeant was terminated by the City of Chicago Department of Aviation after incidents on two separate shifts where he was found to have neglected his duties and disobeyed orders from supervisors. The city's Human Resources Board upheld the termination, and the sergeant appealed the decision, arguing the board's findings were contrary to the evidence. However, the appellate court ruled that the record contained substantial evidence to support the board's decision that the sergeant's actions warranted discharge.

  • The incidents occurred during the sergeant's shifts on separate dates.
  • The Human Resources Board upheld the termination decision.
  • The sergeant appealed the board's ruling to the Illinois appellate court.

The players

City of Chicago Department of Aviation

The municipal agency responsible for operating Chicago's airports and employing aviation security personnel.

Chicago Human Resources Board

The administrative agency that oversees personnel decisions for the City of Chicago, including disciplinary actions against municipal employees.

Illinois Appellate Court

The state court that reviewed and affirmed the decision of the Chicago Human Resources Board to uphold the aviation sergeant's termination.

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The takeaway

This case demonstrates the broad authority municipalities have to terminate public employees, even in safety-critical roles, when there is evidence of neglect of duties or insubordination. The appellate court's deference to the administrative agency's decision-making process highlights the high bar employees face when challenging disciplinary actions by government employers.