Sales woman files sexual discrimination lawsuit against fitness club

SHERMAN - A sales woman for fitness club has filed a sexual discrimination lawsuit claiming was sexually harassed by one of its personal fitness instructors.

April Stewart filed suit against L.A. Fitness International on Feb. 21 in the Eastern District of Texas, Sherman Division.

Stewart was employed as a sales person by defendant L.A. Fitness for their location in Carrollton, according to the suit.

She alleges on July 28, 2011, she was subjected to grossly offensive and threatening conduct by a personal fitness instructor at the facility. The following day, she claims she sent an email to an Employee Relations Manager. The manager allegedly told Stewart that she could return to work a few days later as the fitness instructor had been given a "stern talking to."

But Stewart states that the response was inadequate and therefore, she was constructively discharged from her employment.

The defendant is accused of discriminating against Steward based on her sex and for sexual harassment.

The plaintiff is asking for an award of damages, punitive damages, attorney's fees, court costs and interest.

Stewart is represented by Sherman attorney Ronald R. Huff.

A jury trial is requested.

U.S. District Judge Michael H. Schneider is assigned to the case.

Case No. 4:12-cv-00100