SUTTON, Mass. — Lisa Sullivan is the town of Sutton's first female police officer. She says being a female in her profession has come with its challenges, saying she's had misogynistic experiences. But she says this time it has gone too far.

"As a police officer, at the core of what I do is what's supposed to be right," Sullivan said. "And this is by far the biggest wrong I personally have experienced."

Sullivan has worn the badge for 28 years. The last 13 have been in Sutton.

Currently serving as a lieutenant, when the town's chief left his post, she thought she was the right fit for the job.

"I was a patrolman, I was a sergeant, then promoted to lieutenant, I was offered the chief's job," she said. "I'm the only one that's held every rank within the police department."

As Sullivan mentioned, she went through the interview process as was later offered the job. She says she had the best scores in the assessment process, and even began negotiating her contract.

But in May, before anything was official, fellow police officers took a vote of no confidence in Sullivan for reasons she's still unsure about.

"At that point, there were no competency issues brought forward," said Sullivan. "It was more style or difference in communication."

Fast forward to July, when selectmen were set to cement her in as chief, Sullivan learned they'd no longer be doing that as three of the five members voted against her appointment.

"How can a leader lead a department if the entire department does not respect or support them," said Select Board member Jesse Limanek at the board's July 16 meeting. "I see failure in the short term and in the long term."

Sullivan has now formally filed a complaint with the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination. She believes her being a woman prevented her promotion to the top law enforcement job in town.

"For me, it's about having the truth come out," said Sullivan. "I had this process take place on July 16, and I've had to sit and be quiet."

According to the complaint, the vote of no confidence led to the town expanding eligibility for the chief position, allowing more candidates to qualify. In August, a retired lieutenant was hired as the interim chief.

Sullivan says she still wants to be the town's chief. And even after filing this complaint, she still says she goes to work with her head held high.

"This is 28 years that I've dedicated to this profession and that is something I will defend," she said.

Spectrum News 1 did reach out to the town manager's office, police chief and members of the Select Board listed in the complaint including Limanek, but as of Thursday evening did not receive a response back.