A former employee has filed a class-action lawsuit against a major corporation, alleging numerous violations of California labor laws. The complaint was filed by Joshua Coley on October 30, 2024, in the Superior Court of California for the County of Santa Clara against Henkel US Operations Corporation. Coley accuses the company of failing to pay proper wages and provide required breaks among other allegations.
Joshua Coley, who worked as an hourly-paid, non-exempt employee from July 2023 to August 2024 in Santa Clara County, claims that Henkel US Operations Corporation failed to comply with several sections of the California Labor Code. The lawsuit outlines multiple grievances including failure to pay minimum and overtime wages, failure to provide meal and rest periods, and failure to furnish accurate wage statements. "Defendants have obtained valuable property, money and services from Plaintiff," the complaint states, emphasizing the alleged financial harm caused by these practices.
The plaintiff further asserts that Henkel's actions were willful and deliberate, accusing them of manufacturing timekeeping records to show compliance falsely. Coley also alleges that upon termination, he did not receive all due wages promptly as mandated by law. This case highlights issues like unauthorized deductions for business expenses incurred by employees without reimbursement.
Coley seeks certification for a class action on behalf of himself and other similarly situated current or former employees who faced similar treatment. The relief sought includes unpaid wages with interest, statutory penalties for labor code violations, attorney fees, and injunctive relief to prevent future violations. Additionally, restitution under California’s Unfair Competition Law is requested due to what is described as unlawful business practices.
Representing Joshua Coley are attorneys John G. Yslas, William M. Pao, and W. Christina Chang from Wilshire Law Firm. The case is presided over by Judge Y. Chavez under Case ID 24CV450642.