The EEOC recently settled allegations of sexual harassment with Coley’s #101, LLC doing business as Dad’s BBQ in Anniston, Alabama. The company has agreed to pay $91,000 to resolve claims alleged in a sexual harassment lawsuit filed by the EEOC. Dad’s will be monitored by the EEOC for the term of the decree to prevent further discrimination and retaliation.
According to the lawsuit, a class of women experienced ongoing sexual harassment and discrimination on the job from an assistant manager and a cook. The EEOC further alleged the plaintiffs were subjected to frequent use of sexually explicit words in the workplace, degrading sexual comments about their bodies, threats of forced sexual acts, and propositions for sex.
This case is a reminder that employers have an obligation to take steps to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace. Failure to properly address complaints of harassment and discrimination can lead to significant legal liability. Our firm represents a number of individuals who have suffered from harassment in the workplace and we can be reached for a consultation at wbeckum@beckumlaw.com.