Whistleblower Sues Over Alleged Illegal ID Sales

Former Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) clerk Melissa Moorman has filed a lawsuit against her previous employers, claiming wrongful termination after she reported illegal activities within the Department of Vehicle Regulation. According to court documents obtained by Fox News Digital, Moorman discovered in 2024 that two colleagues were selling driver’s licenses to individuals without proper immigration checks. Her legal team asserts that Moorman was invited to join the scheme but chose to report it instead.

Details of the Alleged Scheme

Moorman revealed to WDRB News that her co-workers were selling licenses for $200 each, conducting these transactions four to five times daily over a span of more than two years. She stated that every transaction involved an illegal immigrant. Following her report, the implicated employees were dismissed, and a federal investigation into KYTC was initiated. Moorman met with federal investigators in January after discovering that her credentials were used without her consent.

Repercussions and Legal Action

Despite her efforts to expose the misconduct, Moorman was terminated on the day of her interview with investigators. Her lawsuit, filed in April, claims that KYTC violated the Kentucky Whistleblower Act, which safeguards public employees who report wrongdoing. Moorman seeks reinstatement of her job and benefits, along with back pay.

Attorney’s Perspective on the Case

Garry Adams, Moorman’s attorney, expressed disappointment over KYTC’s decision to fire Moorman instead of addressing the issue she uncovered. He emphasized that the scheme endangered Kentuckians by allowing unqualified individuals to obtain driver’s licenses. Adams criticized governmental tendencies to conceal significant problems rather than confronting and resolving them.

Ongoing Investigations and Legal Implications

Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman described the situation as “troubling and unacceptable,” noting ongoing investigations into potential fraud by state and federal authorities. Under Kentucky law, non-U.S. citizens can only receive standard driver’s licenses if they provide valid residency and immigration documentation. Presenting false information could lead to prosecution.