A civil lawsuit has been filed against Paragon Motors of Woodside, Inc., a New York-based automotive company, accusing it of fostering a hostile work environment through sexual harassment and discrimination. Aileen Garcia, the plaintiff, filed the complaint on December 2, 2024, in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York.
The lawsuit alleges that Garcia faced ongoing sexual harassment and discrimination during her employment at Paragon Motors. According to the complaint, Garcia was subjected to derogatory comments and rumors spread by her manager, Jennifer Villalba.
The allegations include Garcia being called a “stripper,” told she should work in nightlife instead of her position, and having false rumors spread about her personal relationships with male colleagues. These actions, Garcia claims, created an intolerable work environment.
Garcia's legal action is based on violations of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as well as the New York State Human Rights Law (NYSHRL) and the New York City Human Rights Law (NYCHRL).
The plaintiff argues that these laws were violated due to sex and gender-based discrimination in the workplace. The complaint notes that Villalba held a supervisory role over Garcia, making Paragon Motors liable for Villalba’s conduct under these statutes.
In response to the alleged misconduct, Garcia seeks compensatory damages for emotional distress caused by the hostile work environment. She is also pursuing punitive damages to penalize Paragon Motors for its alleged willful violations of anti-discrimination laws.
Additionally, Garcia seeks recovery of lost wages resulting from her resignation from the job, which she described as well-paying but unbearable due to the working conditions.
Representing Garcia is attorney Lawrence Spasojevich of Rego Park, New York. Case I.D. 1:24-cv-08303.