Matthew Schrenger v. Louisville Metro Police Chief Erika Shields, and Mayor Greg Fischer

On February 20, 2021, Louisville Metro Police Officer Matthew Schrenger, a 13-year veteran, prayed off-duty with his father on a public sidewalk outside the closed EMW Women’s Surgical Center, an abortion facility. Wearing his uniform but attempting to cover it, Schrenger was photographed, prompting a social media post by clinic escorts. The Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD) suspended him for over four months, stripped his police powers, and investigated him for violating policies against participating in political or religious controversies in uniform. Schrenger, represented by Thomas More Society, claimed he was praying, not protesting, as part of a 40 Days for Life prayer vigil.

In June 2021, Schrenger filed an EEOC charge, receiving a right-to-sue notice. On October 4, 2021, he sued LMPD, Chief Erika Shields, Mayor Greg Fischer, and the City of Louisville in federal court, alleging violations of his First and Fourteenth Amendment rights, the federal Civil Rights Act, and the Kentucky Civil Rights Act. He argued the suspension was discriminatory, as other officers participated in LGBTQ+ and Black Lives Matter events without discipline. Chief Shields admitted the policy was unclear but revised it to bar such actions. Schrenger’s police powers were restored in June 2021, with no sustained violations.

In January 2022, Louisville settled the lawsuit, paying Schrenger $75,000 for the violation of his constitutional rights. Schrenger resumed active duty.