Phoenix Suns Fire Security Director Suing Over Discrimination, Retaliation

The Phoenix Suns have terminated Gene Traylor, their director of safety, security and risk management, amid a lawsuit he filed against the team alleging discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. Traylor, who joined the Suns in January 2023, claims he was retaliated against and demoted after presenting management with security flaws, including failed security tests where plainclothes officers smuggled weapons into the arena undetected. The Suns stated Traylor was fired following an independent investigation that found he violated company policies by disclosing confidential security information and being untruthful to investigators. Traylor's attorney contends the firing was a retaliatory act disguised as policy enforcement and part of a broader pattern of workplace discrimination and retaliation. This lawsuit is one of several recent legal actions against the Suns, reflecting ongoing allegations of a toxic workplace culture that punishes employees who raise concerns. The Suns maintain that guest safety remains a top priority and that they regularly conduct security tests to meet industry standards.