Facts

Rosalinda Kornegay was a Los Angeles International Airport security officer and sued her employer, the City of Los Angeles and Sergeant Bernard Wilder, after being reassigned to a new position.

PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS: Plaintiff contended that defendant Wilder made inappropriate comments towards plaintiff during roll call, which addressed rumors that plaintiff was dating a lieutenant. Plaintiff also contended that she received inappropriate letters, calling plaintiff offensive names. Plaintiff further contended that she submitted complaints regarding these incidents and that after, she was denied a position as lead officer. Plaintiff also contended that defendants intentionally transferred her to a position below her current rank in retaliation for plaintiff's complaints. Plaintiff also contended that she was verbally harassed when she took her new position. Plaintiff's expert also contended that plaintiff suffered from emotional pain and suffering as a result of defendants' conduct.

DEFENDANTS' CONTENTIONS: Defendants contended that plaintiff's claims of gossip and harassment were not substantiated by any supervisors. Defendants also contended that defendant Wilder's statements at the meeting were an attempt to put a general end to the harassment in the department without using any individual names. Defendants further contended that defendant Wilder did not intend to use plaintiff's name and as a result did not create a hostile or harassing work environment. Defendants denied the contention that plaintiff was retaliated against and instead contended that a full investigation and subsequent remedial measures were taken after plaintiff's complaint was made. Defendants further contended that the application process for the position plaintiff sought was frozen and, at her request, plaintiff was placed in a suitable alternative position instead.

Damages

Plaintiff sought $4 million in damages from the City of Los Angeles and another $150,000 from Sergeant Wilder for her claimed emotional pain and suffering.

Result

The jury returned a verdict in favor of defendants.

Other Information

The court denied plaintiff's motion for a judgment notwithstanding the verdict and a new trial.

Length

3 weeks.