Facts

David Cutler, a citizen of England, traveled to the United States using a student visa to acquire a master's degree in Los Angeles. In 2004, Anthony Dike hired Cutler, who had just earned his master's degree, to work fro Meridian Holdings Inc and Intercare DX Inc. On Nov. 1, 2004, Cutler began his job, which entailed verifying that medical data was in compliance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPPA).

PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS:
In 2005, Cutler claimed that he identified a problem that could cause disclosure of private information. He claimed that Dike told him to disregard this issue. After Cutler continued to report HIPPA violations, Dike fired him. Cutler claimed that he was terminated due to retaliation and his national origin.

DEFENDANT'S CONTENTIONS:
Defendant asserted that Dike terminated Cutler because an intern was improperly supervised, which caused damage to computer severs. The defendant also rejected allegations as to breach of contract or discrimination.

Damages

Cutler claimed $360,000 in loss of earnings.

Injuries

The plaintiff claimed emotional distress.

Result

A verdict of $70,000 against the defendants.

Other Information

FILING DATE: April 4, 2007.