FRESNO — A former employee is suing the city of Clovis, alleging disability discrimination, hostile work environment, retaliation and wrongful termination.
Lionel Hawkins filed a complaint Aug. 30 in Fresno County Superior Court against the city of Clovis and Does 1-100, alleging they breached their duties of good faith and fair dealing.
According to the complaint, Hawkins, who was earning $3,429 per month, suffered damages, including lost wages, anxiety, frustration, stress, emotional distress, and injury, as a result of being terminated Dec. 16, 2016. The suit says the city acted in retaliation for Hawkins filing a complaint of discrimination, harassment and /or hostile work environment.
The lawsuit states Hawkins had suffered a knee injury in July 16 that required surgery and convalescence.
The plaintiff alleges the defendants retaliated against him for his use of leave for disability, refused to allow him back to his customary job duties, failed to prevent unlawful employment discrimination on the basis of disability, and failed to conduct a fair and reasonable investigation.
Hawkins seeks trial by jury, judgment for special and general damages, attorney fees, civil penalties, interest, costs of suit and all relief the court deems just. He is represented by attorney Todd B. Barsotti of Fresno.
Fresno County Superior Court case number 17-C-2980