Railway worker cites targeted dismissal, sues UPRR

A man brought a lawsuit against his employer for alleged wrongful termination in 2014.

Robert Ray filed against Union Pacific Railroad Company, doing business in Dallas, Jay Everett of Little Rock, Arkansas, Mario Ramos of Louisiana and Lane Blasingame of Longview, in the Marshall Division of the Eastern District of Texas May 14, claiming unlawful conduct in October 2014.

Ray was employed by UPRR as a brakeman/conductor. According to documents filed, after he suffered a crushed finger while he was acting in his scope as conductor on or about April 24, 2014, he reported the injury, sought medical treatment, filled out paperwork for an incident report, and submitted to and passed a drug test. Ray states that he also informed his employer of his prescription medication and off-work medical status.

According to the suit, the plaintiff was removed from service without pay on May 2, 2014; suspended without pay on June 11, 2014; and targeted for unwarranted scrutiny upon his return to work. Ray claims that on Oct. 7, he was falsely charged with a violation and recommended for termination; investigated by UPRR on Oct. 14; and discharged on Oct. 24.

Ray seeks reinstatement, back pay with interest, compensatory and punitive damages in excess of $75,000; elimination of his personnel file; pre- and post-judgment interest; attorney’s fees; expenses, and costs.

The plaintiff is represented by Jerry Easley and Bristol Baxley of Rome, Arata & Baxley in Pearland.

Marshall Division of the Eastern District of Texas Case 2:15-cv-00714-JRG-RSP