Our client Marina Portillo, a former server at Wheaton Lounge and El Tipico Dominicano, was awarded $455,714 in damages from a federal judge in the District Court of Maryland for a case she brought against her former employers. Ms. Portillo was violently sexually assaulted in the workplace, and subjected to a hostile work environment and violations of various wage laws. She was terminated after she stood up for her rights and opposed her employer’s conduct.
The Court awarded Ms. Portillo default judgment for her claims involving failure to pay all regular and overtime wages, tip theft, unpaid commissions, hostile work environment, retaliation, battery, and intentional infliction of emotional distress. The Court awarded Ms. Portillo $200,000 in compensatory damages, $200,000 in punitive damages, and $55,714 in compensation for wage and hour violations.
Ms. Portillo’s experience was appalling, and she was brave to speak out about the horrific treatment to which she was subjected. We’re honored to have delivered her accountability and justice. To read the judge’s ruling, click here.
This case is yet another reminder of the importance of our everyday work at Gilbert Employment Law, P.C. No matter where you live in the United States, a harassment-free workplace is your right. If you have experienced sexual harassment or wage theft in your workplace, contact our office today.