NEW HAVEN (AP) — A Connecticut police officer says in a lawsuit he was discriminated against by his department because of his facial tattoos.

The New Haven Register reports that Officer Jason Bandy sued New Haven police this week. His attorney says the department has "no rules, regulations or policies" regarding tattoos or body art and no women in the department have been disciplined because of piercings, makeup, jewelry or other items.

Chief Otoniel Reyes said the department cannot comment on personnel matters or on pending litigation.

The former chief recommended firing Bandy because the tattoos violated a general order requiring officers to "present a neat and clean appearance."

Bandy agreed to cover the tattoos while on duty.

According to a previous Register story, the tattoos include a Latin phrase, date and the letter D.

Information from: New Haven Register, http://www.nhregister.com