A former caregiver has filed a lawsuit against her previous employer, alleging harassment and wrongful termination. The complaint was filed by Maria Frias on November 13, 2024, in the Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara, against Kiwi Associates Inc., doing business as A1 Care, and an individual named Peter Contreras.
The case revolves around allegations that Maria Frias faced a hostile work environment while employed as a caregiver for Anita Ruiz Contreras through A1 Care. Hired on August 28, 2023, Frias claims she was subjected to verbal harassment and inappropriate behavior from Peter Contreras, who managed his wife's finances. According to the complaint, Mr. Contreras made derogatory remarks about Frias' presence and even solicited sex from her under the pretense of going through a rough patch in his marriage. This incident reportedly occurred on December 17, 2023, which Frias immediately reported to both Anita Ruiz Contreras and their daughter Rosa.
Despite reporting the incident to the company founder Tupou Syddall and being promised legal assistance, Frias alleges that no action was taken to address her complaints or prevent further harassment. On December 26, 2023, she received a voicemail from Mr. Contreras terminating her employment without any prior notice or justification. Frias reached out to Rosa Contreras for clarification but was informed that there was nothing Rosa could do about it.
Frias' lawsuit accuses Kiwi Associates Inc. and Peter Contreras of violating several provisions under the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), including harassment based on gender and wrongful termination. She also alleges negligent failure by the employer to prevent harassment by a non-employee—Mr. Contreras—and claims this negligence caused her significant emotional distress and financial loss.
The plaintiff is seeking compensatory damages for lost wages and benefits due to wrongful termination and emotional distress caused by the hostile work environment. Additionally, she seeks punitive damages against the defendants for their alleged willful disregard of her rights under Civil Code §3294.
Representing Maria Frias is attorney Benjamin Eghbali from Eghbali Firm in Los Angeles. The case has been assigned Case No: 24CV451711 at the Superior Court of California in Santa Clara County.