Capitol Police Officers File Amended Discrimination Lawsuit

Dozens of current and retired black officers with the U.S. Capitol Police have filed a new complaint against the agency.

The amended lawsuit filed in court Wednesday largely restates earlier allegations of discrimination and retaliation against black members.

The lawsuit started with more than 300 officers, but now has 72 plaintiffs. It was first filed in 2001 and is still pending.

Joseph Gebhardt, a lawyer for the group, says 17 of the original plaintiffs have died while others have decided to leave the case or didn't meet certain jurisdictional requirements.

A Capitol Police spokesman had no immediate comment Friday.

The Capitol Police is responsible for protecting members of Congress and safeguarding congressional buildings and the surrounding areas.