In a dramatic legal filing, an individual known as Jane Doe has accused her former employer of a litany of discriminatory practices and wrongful termination. The complaint was filed by Shegerian & Associates, Inc. on December 27, 2024, in the Superior Court of California for the County of Sacramento against Fitness International LLC and several individuals associated with the company.
Jane Doe's lawsuit paints a troubling picture of her time working as a personal trainer at City Sports—LA Fitness, part of Fitness International LLC. According to the complaint, Doe alleges that she was subjected to severe discrimination based on sex, gender, and race during her employment. She accuses supervisors Jason Robinson, David Kumar, Adolphus Lewis, Guido Benitez, and Christian Eugenio of creating a hostile work environment through harassment and intimidation. The allegations include inappropriate comments about her physical appearance and explicit sexual remarks made by male colleagues.
Doe claims that after reporting these incidents to management in August 2024, no corrective action was taken. Instead, she faced retaliation culminating in her wrongful termination on September 27, 2024. "Plaintiff engaged in protected activities and made protected complaints during her employment with Defendants," states the complaint. Despite receiving commendations for her work performance shortly before her dismissal, Doe asserts that she was forced out due to ongoing hostility and threats from her supervisors.
The lawsuit further accuses Fitness International LLC of failing to prevent discrimination and harassment as mandated by California's Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA). Additionally, it charges the company with negligent hiring practices for retaining employees who perpetuated such behavior. Doe also seeks redress under the Tom Bane Civil Rights Act for interference with civil rights through threats and coercion.
Jane Doe is seeking economic damages for lost wages and benefits alongside non-economic damages for emotional distress caused by the alleged misconduct. The complaint also demands punitive damages due to what it describes as "malicious" actions by the defendants. Furthermore, Doe requests compensation for attorneys' fees incurred while pursuing this case.
Representing Jane Doe are attorneys from Shegerian & Associates Inc., including Carney R. Shegerian and Rosie Zilifyan. The case is presided over by judges at the Superior Court of California in Sacramento under Case No.: 24m WO 2B?. This legal battle highlights significant issues regarding workplace discrimination and employer accountability within large fitness corporations.