HOUSTON – Three women formerly employed by Shipley Do-Nuts have filed a lawsuit alleging they were sexually harassed by the company owner, according to recent Harris County District Court records.
Esmeralda Sanchez, Martha Garcia, and Elizabeth Peralta initiated legal action against the doughnut chain and Lawrence Shipley, III in the Harris County 295th District Court on Mar. 2.
The plaintiffs accuse Shipley of subjecting them to inappropriate physical behavior and unwelcome comments throughout their employment.
Recent court documents add that the owner discriminated against the women because of their Hispanic origin, recalling a time he did not invite them to the annual Christmas party.
Garcia further claims Shipley falsely imprisoned her in a company-owned house, stating he patrolled the property with a firearm at tow to prevent her from leaving.
The company terminated the women on Dec. 16, 2016.
Consequently, the complainants seek unspecified monetary damages and a jury trial.
Matías J. Adrogué of Houston serves as their lead counsel.
Harris County 295th District Court Case No. 2018-14172