Trooper says WSP discriminated against him because he's Mormon

FEDERAL WAY -- A Washington State Patrol trooper says his own agency is discriminating against him because he's white and a Mormon, and now he's suing.

In a recently-filed lawsuit, Stg. David Divis says the state patrol "took adverse employment action" against him based on his race and religion.

The News Tribune reports WSP launched an internal investigation against Divis for allegedly making disparaging remarks about black troopers.

In the suit, Divis contends someone made disparaging remarks about him, "including a comment that (he) must have discriminated against certain troopers because his church does not allow blacks to attend."

The suit goes on to say that Divis was not treated the same as fellow employees of different races.

In response to the allegations, the state patrol issued a statement saying "We've acted in good faith throughout this process and are confident that the court will determine we've acted lawfully."

Divis was originally demoted, but a judge reinstated him. He is now on paid leave.

Reached today for comment, Divis said he's letting the lawsuit speak for itself.