Recently, I was asked if companies have finally received the message about sexual harassment in the workplace—whether it’s becoming less frequent and less shocking in degree. I think companies are doing a better job of educating their managers and employees about the subject. But I still find examples that make me shake my head and mutter, “What were they thinking?”
Take the unfortunate example of these “executives” with Hilton Hotels in Minneapolis. The good news is that the case settled. According to public information, former employees Deborah Smith and April Bezdichek settled their lawsuits against Hilton and one of its managers. The suits stemmed from a “party” for Hilton executives at its Minneapolis property in 2007. The distressing news comes from the allegations of these two former employees.
Smith’s complaint alleged that when she opened the door to the banquet room, she saw various Hilton executives inebriated and scattered throughout the room engaging in sexual acts.
Bezdichek’s complaint alleged that she was aggressively groped by a Hilton manager, who also tried to physically force her up to a hotel room.
It was no surprise when both ladies sued Hilton, and Bezdichek sued the male manager as well. Bezdichek’s complaint included claims not only for sexual harassment, but for assault, battery, invasion of privacy, negligence, and retaliation. Smith also sued for sexual harassment and retaliation. The retaliation stemmed from the fact that, after reporting the incidents, Bezdichek said she was no longer called in for shifts and she was forced to resign. And Smith claimed she was fired from her job when she reported the incident.
Bamberger attorneys train and counsel employers and employees in an effort to prevent claims of sexual harassment. We also provide sexual harassment policies for the workplace. If you need assistance, please contact your Bamberger attorney.
Author: Michael Cork (bio)
Phone: 317.464.1594
email: mcork@bamberger.com
Tags: assault, invasion of privacy, Michael J. Cork, workplace harassment