Federal Watchdog for Equal Employment Serves Tapioca Express With Sexual Harassment Suit

Los Angeles, CA (Law Firm Newswire) September 13, 2018 – According to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), South El Monte, California-based milk tea franchise Tapioca Express and two of its franchisees broke federal law by sexually harassing female employees and forcing some to quit because of the inappropriate actions.

The class-action lawsuit claims the owner of two franchisees in Chula Vista and National City, California, provided a hostile work environment that involved inappropriate and unwanted touching, sexual comments and comments about employees’ figures. The EEOC alleges the owner wrapped his arms around women and pressed up against them. Because of the harassment, some female employees felt obliged to quit.

The federal agency filed its lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of California after failing to reach a pre-litigation settlement via conciliation. The suit asks for monetary damages for the victimized employees as well as other relief to prevent and correct discrimination moving forward.

“Sex harassment remains a persistent problem which requires all employers to ensure accountability, training and leadership to promote a workplace free of harassment,” said Anna Park, EEOC’s regional attorney for the Los Angeles District, which includes San Diego County.

Betsy Havens, executive director of Los Angeles employment law firm Strong Advocates, helps those who have experienced sexual harassment.

“Employees have the right to stop sexual harassment,” Havens said. “By fighting back, you could shield others who are experiencing the same abhorrent treatment.”

Been sexually harassed on the job? Contact the compassionate sexual harassment lawyers at Strong Advocates and take a strong step toward the pursuit of justice.

Learn more at https://www.strongadvocates.com. Strong Advocates 6080 Center Dr #600 Los Angeles, CA 90045 Phone: (310) 504-1490 Strong Advocates Blog