A once-close relationship between Edison Mayor Sam Joshi and former Special Assistant to the Mayor, Anthony DeAmorin, has soured spectacularly, leading to a lawsuit filled with allegations of political retaliation, a hostile work environment, and even whispers of FBI investigations.
DeAmorin’s complaint paints a picture of a dramatic shift in his standing within the Township, beginning with his early support of Joshi and their clandestine meetings at Whole Foods to avoid prying ears on Township-issued phones. It was during one such meeting, DeAmorin claims, that he confided in Joshi about his assistance to the FBI in an ongoing corruption probe.
The relationship took a turn when DeAmorin publicly endorsed Joshi’s political rival, in the 2021 mayoral race. Despite Joshi’s victory, DeAmorin alleges he was demoted to a “Media Assistant” role, essentially a cameraman for Township meetings, with no clear job description or confirmation of his promised salary and benefits.
DeAmorin’s complaints to Human Resources about a hostile work environment and retaliatory actions allegedly fell on deaf ears. The situation escalated further when DeAmorin took medical leave due to stress, only to be met with a bizarre request for a drug test and, ultimately, four police officers arrived at Mr. DeAmorin’s personal residence and hand delivered a termination letter.
The Township’s motion for summary judgment was partially successful, with the court dismissing claims related to whistleblower protection and failure to accommodate. However, the heart of the lawsuit remains intact, with DeAmorin’s allegations of political retaliation, discrimination, and workers’ compensation retaliation set to be aired in a trial that could expose the inner workings of Edison’s political scene and potentially shed light on the FBI investigation that looms large in the background.
With the Summary Judgement ruling issued on 8/14/24 by Judge Bruce Kaplan in Middlesex County Superior Court the stage is now set for a courtroom showdown between Mayor Joshi and his former confidant, a trial that promises to be as dramatic as the events that led to it.
