In a sweeping legal action, an individual has filed a complaint against a major retail corporation and associated parties, alleging extensive violations of labor rights and employment laws. The plaintiff, John Susino, filed the complaint in the Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara on February 4, 2025, targeting Safeway Inc., United Food and Commercial Workers Union Local Five (UFCW5), and several individuals associated with these entities.
The case centers around allegations that Safeway Inc. and UFCW5 engaged in unlawful practices that violated federal and state employment laws. According to Susino, these entities conspired to deprive employees of their rights through coercion, harassment, and intimidation. The complaint lists numerous causes of action including breach of contract, discrimination in employment, stalking, retaliation, harassment, fraud, conspiracy, emotional distress among others. Susino claims that over 50,000 job applicants and employees have been affected by these alleged practices.
Susino's allegations stem from his time working as a bakery clerk at Safeway during the COVID-19 pandemic. He describes himself as an "Essential Worker" who was wrongfully terminated after being subjected to workplace harassment for refusing to join the union. Susino recounts an incident where he was allegedly stalked by Laurie Mesa, a union representative from UFCW5. Despite reporting this behavior to management as per company policy, he claims no action was taken against Mesa. Instead, he faced retaliatory actions leading to his suspension.
The lawsuit accuses Safeway and UFCW5 of creating a hostile work environment where employees were coerced into joining the union under threat of termination. It also alleges that both organizations colluded to suppress employee rights for their mutual benefit. Susino argues that this conduct violates multiple labor laws including the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) and California's Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA).
Susino is seeking various forms of relief from the court including damages for emotional distress and economic interference caused by his wrongful termination. He also demands corrective measures be implemented within Safeway to prevent future violations of worker rights.
Representing himself in this case is John Susino "In Pro Per," indicating he does not have formal legal representation but is acting on behalf of himself under California's Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA). The case is presided over by judges at the Superior Court of California with Case ID 25C0V457958.