PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — The former executive director of the civilian review board that oversees the Providence Police Department who was fired in November after he released video of an officer’s assault on a suspect said in a lawsuit against the city that his termination was retaliatory.

The federal lawsuit filed Tuesday by Jose Batista alleges the city denied him his free speech and due process rights.

Batista was fired as executive director the nine-member Providence External Review Authority after releasing video of Sgt. Joseph Hanley assaulting Rishod Gore against the authority’s wishes.

Hanley was convicted last week.

City spokesperson Ben Smith said he could not comment on pending litigation.