A former employee of a North Carolina sheriff’s office has filed a lawsuit alleging systemic racial discrimination and retaliation within the department. Earl Alston, Jr., the plaintiff, lodged his complaint on December 1, 2025, in the United States District Court for the Middle District of North Carolina against Terry Johnson, Alamance County Sheriff, and the Alamance County Sheriff’s Office.
The case centers around accusations that Alston faced racial discrimination during his tenure at the Alamance County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO). According to the complaint, Alston alleges violations of his rights under several federal statutes including 42 U.S.C. §1981 and §1983, as well as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The lawsuit highlights a pattern of discriminatory practices against African American employees at ACSO, claiming they were systematically denied promotions and subjected to hostile work environments compared to their white counterparts. Alston recounts being forced into unsafe working conditions and witnessing racially offensive conduct by other deputies. “Plaintiff was denied promotional opportunities on multiple occasions in favor of less experienced, less qualified white investigators,” states the complaint.
Alston’s legal action is part of a broader effort to challenge what he describes as entrenched racism within ACSO’s leadership. The lawsuit details how African American employees are often capped at lower ranks while higher positions are reserved for white employees. Furthermore, it claims that minority officers’ decisions are routinely overruled by superiors, undermining their authority. The complaint also references previous incidents involving ACSO that reflect its alleged disregard for racial equity and civil rights.
In seeking justice, Alston requests both damages and injunctive relief from the court. He aims to obtain compensation for lost wages and emotional distress while also pushing for policy changes within ACSO to eliminate discriminatory practices. Additionally, punitive damages are sought where applicable.
Representing Alston is attorney Jason L. Keith from NXTGEN LAW based in Greensboro, North Carolina. The case is presided over by judges from the United States District Court for the Middle District of North Carolina under Case ID 1:25-cv-01090.
Source: 125cv01090_Alston_v_Johnson_Complaint_Middle_District_North_Carolina.pdf
