Airport Security Guard In Southern California Settles Suit For $200K

A black Santa Monica Airport security guard who claims the city denied him a promotion because of his race and age has settled the case for $200,000.

The Santa Monica Daily Press reported 56-year-old Vonnell Adams also agreed to leave his job as part of the settlement.

Adams, who has worked at the airport for 17 years, sued the city in federal court two years ago claiming his supervisors circumvented normal promotion procedures by improperly promoting a Hispanic colleague.

City Attorney Marsha Moutrie said Tuesday the case was strenuously contested by both sides.

Adams is currently on sick leave. His last day is March 30.