Plaintiff Sues Exclusive Golf Club for Alleged California Labor Law Violations

Los Angeles, CA A noted golf course in Los Angeles is facing a handful of lawsuits alleging California labor law violations. Trial for one of the lawsuits began July 10th against Angeles National Golf Club, which bills itself as the only Nicklaus Design golf course in Los Angeles County. The facility is an exclusive, private golf course that often hosts PGA events

The California labor lawsuit alleges discrimination against Angeles National. As reported in The Daily News of Los Angeles (7/11/12)) plaintiff Carly Cooter??"a former employee at the facility??"alleges that a customer of the facility walked up behind her where she was working, squeezed her breasts and simulated sex. The lawsuit claims the customer was likely in a drunken state on the day of the incident, which is alleged to have happened in 2006 or 2007.

Following a complaint by the plaintiff, a supervisor who was apparently required to handle the situation instead made mocking comments towards Cooter. The plaintiff's shifts were reduced, and she was subsequently fired. One report suggests Cooter's confidential summary of the alleged assault was posted in the facility's Pro Shop where it could be seen by customers and other employees.

Her lawsuit alleges various violations to the California labor code, including wrongful termination, retaliation, intentional infliction of emotional distress, a hostile work environment, sex discrimination, and breach of contract.

Another California labor lawsuit has been filed by a former employee of the facility who complained about a video camera mounted at the snack bar where she worked. The plaintiff in that action claims the camera broadcast footage of her posterior and those of other female employees working at the snack bar to various television monitors around the golf club. One report suggested the images revealed underwear. When the plaintiff complained, she was allegedly fired??"a violation of California employment labor law, if proven true.

The aforementioned lawsuit has yet to go to trial.

Defendant Angeles National, in a statement released through a public relations firm, called the accusations "ridiculous, salacious and unfounded.

"We trust the courts will recognize the cases for what they are," said Spokesperson Eric Rose, "an unconscionable and irresponsible abuse of the legal system by disgruntled former employees."

The California labor law trial is being conducted at Los Angeles Superior Court. The case is BC439058 Cooter v. Angeles National.