The City of Jasper and other co-defendants have agreed to pay the former chief of police $831-thousand to settle a federal civil rights lawsuit filed two years ago.

Rodney Pearson, the city’s first black police chief sued after allegations were brought he was wrongfully terminated because of his race.

The Bernsen Law Firm in Beaumont stated City of Jasper officials intentionally posted different qualifications and education requirements than what was set forth in Jasper’s handbook.

In June of 2012, Jasper City Council members voted to dismiss Pearson of his duties, it was said he was fired over poor job performance.

It’s reported many Jasper residents and city council members that voted against firing Pearson said the dismissal was based on race.