Woman files harassment suit against landscaping business

A woman has brought a lawsuit against a Galveston landscaping company for alleged employment discrimination in 2014.

Kayla Nichols of Galveston filed against Tom’s Thumb Nursery & Landscaping Inc. in Galveston County District Court on May 20, citing employment discrimination, sexual harassment and unlawful retaliation in July 2014.

Nichols worked as a sales associate for the defendant from March 19, 2012, until July 11, 2014. The complaint states that coworkers of both genders harassed her about lingerie products she had purchased in May 2014, making jokes and disparaging remarks about her physical appearance.

When Nichols brought the behavior to the attention of her office manager in early June, the suit states that her concerns were dismissed. The plaintiff approached the company owner about the harassment on July 10; she was terminated on July 11. According to the filing, the reasons given were that Nichols’ discomfort created an unhappy work atmosphere.

The complaint states that Nichols was the victim of a hostile work environment and endured severe and pervasive gender discrimination with reckless disregard for her rights.

Citing pain, economic suffering and mental anguish, the plaintiff seeks injunctive action; compensation for exemplary and punitive damages; pre and post-judgment interest; attorney’s fees; expenses; and costs.

The plaintiff is represented by attorney Peter Costea of Houston.

Galveston County District Court case: 15-CV-0500