Sexual harassment should never be tolerated in any workplace throughout Los Angeles or California. Unfortunately, even in light of the #MeToo movement, sexual harassment is still a common theme in many workplaces in our area. It seems like there are always headlines related to sexual harassment in an employment setting, including the recent suspension of the LA Kings mascot amid a sexual harassment lawsuit. At The Kaufman Law Firm, our Los Angeles sexual harassment attorneys want to discuss this case as well as what you can do if you are experiencing harassment at work.
The Los Angeles Kings have suspended the man who performs as their team mascot after a lawsuit claiming sexual harassment was filed against him. The mascot performer, Tim Smith, portrays Bailey the lion and is also the senior manager of game presentations and events for the hockey team.
According to a lawsuit filed against Smith, the hockey team, and the team owner (AEG Corp.), the plaintiff is seeking more than $1 million in damages. The team has said it will conduct an internal investigation into the allegations.
According to the lawsuit, the plaintiff began working for the team in 2018 as a member of the Kings Ice Crew. She worked as a brand ambassador leading fan activities during the game and promoting the team in events away from the arena. The lawsuit alleges that Smith physically and verbally harassed the woman and that she was fired after she raised concerns about the harassment. The lawsuit claims that a King’s team official asked her to return to her employment, and she did so. Unfortunately, the lawsuit alleges, the harassment continued, and she eventually quit.
Tim Smith has worked for the Kings since 2007. In 2017, he was sued for harassment for allegedly grabbing a man by the buttocks during an elevator ride. That lawsuit was settled in July 2018.
At The Kaufman Law Firm, we find that this is not an uncommon theme – that an employee alleged to have committed sexual harassment continues to work for an organization even after lawsuit settlements. This seemingly sets the organization up for disaster and unfortunately leaves new victims in the path of those who seek to cause harm.
If you or somebody you care about is experiencing sexual harassment in the workplace, speak to an attorney about your case as soon as possible. At The Kaufman Law Firm, our qualified and experienced team is ready to get to work on your case immediately. We pledge to conduct a full investigation into your case and secure any compensation you may be entitled to. This can include:
When you need a Los Angeles sexual harassment attorney, you can contact us for a consultation by clicking here or calling us at 310-981-3404.
Your job is more than just a source of income. It is a major part of your lifestyle. If you have been the victim of wrongful termination, wrongful demotion or any kind of discriminatory business practices, it is time to take action and contact a Ventura employment law attorney that can help. Attorney Matthew A. Kaufman and the team at The Kaufman Law Firm bring experience and a vast arsenal of legal resources to help clients recover the money they deserve.
To learn more, contact our Westlake Village law office today and schedule an initial evaluation to discuss your case.