In a dramatic legal battle, a former high-ranking judicial official has taken a stand against alleged racial discrimination and defamation at a public golf course. Jeffrey Johnson, an esteemed former Assistant United States Attorney and California Court of Appeal Justice, filed a complaint on March 16, 2025, in the Superior Court of California, County of Ventura. The lawsuit targets the Rancho Simi Recreation and Park District, among others, accusing them of racial discrimination under the Unruh Civil Rights Act.
The case unfolds with Johnson detailing his experiences at the Simi Hills Golf Course in Simi Valley, where he claims to have faced racial slurs and threats from other patrons. According to Johnson's allegations, he was subjected to derogatory terms such as "nigger" and "garbage," while also being targeted by golf balls deliberately hit towards him. These actions are said to have been perpetuated by both patrons and employees of the golf course. The complaint states that despite numerous reports of these incidents to management figures like Brian Reed and Matt Williamson, no action was taken against those responsible.
Johnson's legal filing further accuses Evelyn Garfield and Tony Falato, owners of The Birdie Bar & Eatery located within the golf course premises, of spreading false accusations about him sexually harassing an employee. This alleged defamation led to his expulsion from both the restaurant and the golf course itself. In his statement, Johnson expresses how these accusations have severely damaged his reputation and caused him significant emotional distress.
The lawsuit is not just about personal grievances; it sheds light on broader issues of racial exclusion in sports like golf. Johnson highlights historical patterns of racism within the sport and draws parallels with his own experiences at Simi Hills Golf Course. He argues that despite progress over the years, remnants of discriminatory practices persist in places like Simi Valley.
Johnson seeks compensatory damages for economic losses as well as non-economic damages for emotional distress. Additionally, he demands punitive damages under California Civil Code section 3294 for what he describes as malicious conduct by the defendants. His prayer for relief includes general damages exceeding $35,000 along with attorney fees and costs incurred during litigation.
Representing Jeffrey Johnson are attorneys Carney R. Shegerian, Mark Lim, and Sara Salinas from Shegerian & Associates Inc., based in Los Angeles. The case is identified under Case No. #025C0UICRO40596 with proceedings set to take place before judges at Ventura Superior Court.