Woman alleges termination due to gender, not sleeping on the job

SHERMAN-A woman who was told she was fired for falling asleep at work claims in a lawsuit that the real reason for her termination was her gender.

Teresa Wright filed a harassment and discrimination lawsuit against Fisher Controls International LLC on March 18 in the 15th Judicial District of Grayson County. On April 13 the defendant removed the case to the Eastern District of Texas, Sherman Division.

According to the complaint, Wright was hired by the defendant in 2005 to work in the assembly department but was eventually assigned to the receiving docks. Wright alleges that she was harassed throughout the time that she worked on the receiving docks.

In May 2009, the plaintiff lost her position for allegedly sleeping while on the job. She believes she was treated differently than male employees who were similarly situated.

Wright claims the defendant violated Texas labor codes by engaging in "unlawful, intentional employment practice against Plaintiff based upon her sex."

The plaintiff is asking the federal court to award damages, punitive damages, court costs and attorneys' fees.

Jury trial requested. The plaintiff is represented by Sherman attorney Benjamin A. Baker.

Court assignment is pending.

Case No 4:10cv00189