Target sued for allowing hostile working environment

A Target employee is suing the store for allegedly allowing its supervisors to create a hostile working environment.

George Alan Roberts filed suit against Target Corp. on Feb. 28 in Jefferson County District Court. The defendant removed the case to the Eastern District of Texas, Beaumont Division on March 24.

Roberts was hired by Target on Dec. 30, 2003, for work in the loss prevention program and remained in employment until Jan. 19.

According to the lawsuit, Roberts was subjected to a hostile work environment when Marcus Johnson was made a store team leader. Roberts states Johnson's continued harassment caused Roberts' diabetes to spike and necessitated a leave of absence.

When Roberts returned, he requested a transfer. He was transferred a year after his request.

However, Roberts states he was transferred to the store in which Johnson's wife worked. Human resources allegedly promised Roberts that he would not suffer retaliation.

The lawsuit accuses Target of discrimination because of Robert's medical condition, retaliation, constructive discharge, intentional infliction of emotional distress, slander, libel and negligent hiring, supervision, training and retention.

The plaintiff is seeking damages for back pay, emotional pain, front pay, inconvenience, interest, loss of enjoyment of life, mental anguish, loss of earnings, loss of earning capacity, loss of benefits, attorney's fees, back pay, exemplary damages and court costs.

Roberts is represented by Ralph E. (Gene) Roberts Jr. of Roberts Law Firm in Dallas. A jury trial is requested.

U.S. District Judge Marcia A. Crone is assigned to the case.

Case No. 1:11-cv-00137