Facts

Claimant, Marisol Carrillo, a Latina, was a 17 year employee of respondent, Renfro Corporation, a sock manufacturing company in Inglewood. Claimant rose to VP of Operations. Claimant was terminated based on an investigation report about workplace harassment authored by the HR manager.
Claimant initiated arbitration on her belief the HR manager was biased against her due to her race or national origin, or bore ill will against her because Claimant purported to resolve a complaint by a temporary transgender worker without elevating it to HR.
This complaint was the subject of the investigation initiated by the HR manager of which Claimant became a subject when she recommended termination of the transgender employee initiating the complaint.
Respondent acknowledged that Carrillo was fired based solely on the investigation report and recommendation of the HR manager. Respondent contended that Claimant violated their policies as the VP of Operations by allowing the toxic environment to persist which resulted in the complaint by the transgender employee.

CLAIMANT'S CONTENTIONS: Claimant contended she was treated differently due to her Hispanic heritage and terminated for reporting Transgender discrimination to HR.

RESPONDENT'S CONTENTIONS: Respondent argued Claimant violated its policies and retaliated against the transgender employee.

Insurer

Arch Insurance EPLI Policy

Settlement Discussions

Renfro offered $100,000 just before Arbitration. Claimant demanded $750,000 lowered to $500,000 at the close of evidence.

Specials in Evidence

Meds: $18,500

Damages

Claimant alleged wage loss of $1.4 million and emotional distress damages of an unspecified amount.

Result

Arbitration award of $300,000 plus attorney fees and costs.