Arnold v. Dejoy

Background

Sheon Arnold, identified in the opinion as a New Jersey resident proceeding without a lawyer, sued Louis DeJoy, the United States Postmaster General, and the United States Postal Service. Arnold alleges that his employer discriminated against him based on race and his status as a military veteran. The complaint invokes Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, 42 U.S.C. § 1981, 38 U.S.C. § 4212, the New York City Human Rights Law, and the New York State Human Rights Law.

In a July 2, 2024 order, the court allowed Arnold to proceed without prepaying filing fees. Because he received that permission, the court explained that he may rely on the court and the U.S. Marshals Service to serve the defendants.

Order

The court instructed the Clerk of Court to complete a U.S. Marshals Service Process Receipt and Return form for the defendants, mark the form for service on the United States, issue summonses, and provide the Marshals Service with the documents needed to complete service on the United States and the defendants.

The court stated that the complaint must be served within 90 days after the summonses are issued. If service is not completed within that period, Arnold should request an extension of time. The court also instructed Arnold to notify the court in writing if his address changes and stated that the action may be dismissed if he fails to do so. The Clerk was directed to mail Arnold an information package, and Arnold was given the option to receive court documents by email.

Effect of the Order

This is an order arranging service of the lawsuit. It does not decide whether Arnold’s discrimination allegations are true, whether the defendants violated any law, or whether the claims will ultimately succeed.