Assistant manager's refusal of female supervisor's advances results in termination, suit claims

SHERMAN-The assistant manager of a Denton store claims his refusal of his female supervisor's sexual advances resulted in retaliation and termination from his position.

Alleging violations of the Civil Rights Act, Tremayne Standberry filed suit against Finish Line Inc. on March 10 in the Northern District of Texas, Dallas division. The defendant transferred the case to the Sherman division of the Eastern District of Texas on March 15.

The plaintiff was employed at the Finish Line located in Denton from October 2007 until August 2009, when he was allegedly terminated for not showing up for work. Standberry claims the real reason for his termination was his refusal of the supervisor's advances.

He states that the manager would make inappropriate remarks, blatant sexual advances and even groped him in the presence of other employees. After he refused the advances, Standberry alleges the supervisor began a pattern of retaliation that included reducing his work hours and accusing him of stealing shoes. Her last act of retaliation was his termination, the suit states.

Standberry filed a complaint with Finish Line's human resources department but claims his accusations were disregarded.

The plaintiff is asking the court for back pay, front pay and compensation for lost benefits; compensatory damages for mental anguish, emotional distress, and inconvenience; past pecuniary losses; loss of enjoyment of life; court costs; interest; and punitive damages.

Dallas attorney Derrell Coleman of West & Associates LLP is representing the plaintiff.

U.S. District Judge Michael H. Schneider will preside over the litigation.

Case No. 4:2010cv00116