NEW YORK (Legal Newsline) — The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has announced Hillcrest Marshall Inc., owner of multiple Dunkin’ Donuts franchises in Westchester County, will pay $150,000 to settle allegations of sexual harassment.
EEOC charged that the company subjected its female employees to harassment by a store manager. The manager purportedly tried to kiss an employee and proposition her for sex. Additionally, EEOC alleges the manager cursed, yelled and hit the employee when she rejected him. The employee allegedly contacted the police, which led to the company firing her.
"Employers need to implement strong policies so victims can report sexual harassment without reprisal, and we are pleased Hillcrest Marshall has agreed to do so,” said EEOC New York District director Kevin Berry.
In addition to monetary relief for alleged victims, Hillcrest Marshall agreed to train all its managers on their obligations under law.
EEOC New York regional attorney Jeffrey Burstein added, "It took tremendous courage for these young women, some of whom were in their teens when they worked at Dunkin' Donuts, to stand up to their manager. EEOC is here to protect vulnerable young workers like these women who suffered workplace harassment."