Facts

Plaintiff Barbara Reese was an employee of the defendant County of Los Angeles, and was a supervisor of contracts and grants for the county. Reese was allegedly asked to testify against a fellow black female employee. Reese refused to testify.

Later, Reese filed suit against county for racial discrimination and retaliation.

PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS:
Reese contended that she was demoted following her refusal to testify. She also claimed that she was harassed by county agents. Reese further argued that she was never fully compensated for her work, and stated that it was county policy to assign greater duties to black employees without proper compensation or promotion in title, contrary to the treatment received by white employees.

DEFENDANT'S CONTENTIONS:
County denied all allegations.

Injuries

Reese claimed emotional distress.

Result

The jury found in favor of Reese in the amount of $104,485. The damages award represented $4,525 for past medical expenses; $2,760 for future medical expenses; $52,200 for past lost wages; and $45,000 for non-economic damages.

Other Information

After a motion for attorney fees, the plaintiff was awarded $179,617 and $11,651 in costs.