A Federal jury awarded nine former Connecticut firefighters $3.2 million last week in a rare reverse-discrimination lawsuit. The white and Hispanic firefighters alleged two top African-American officers, Chief Robert Dobson and Assistant Chief Billy Smith, intentionally blocked their promotions because of their race. The complaint also alleged Smith used racial slurs to describe white and Hispanic firefighters.

The City of Hartford could have settled the case for $300,000 three days before the verdict was handed down but the city council refused to negotiate. City officials say they now may appeal the decision or ask the judge to reduce the award.