The CEO of American Apparel is again facing a lawsuit alleging sexual harassment in Los Angeles, according to a report in the L.A. Times.
In this case, the allegation that he held a teen employee as a sex slave could result in a criminal investigation. Having a Los Angeles sex crimes attorney who is experienced in handling sexual harassment and other employment suits can help protect the rights of a business owner, both in the workplace and in a court of criminal law.
Edgy, sexually provocative advertising, and the wild lifestyle of Chief Executive Dov Charney has always been part of the allure of American Apparel, which began as a t-shirt wholesaler and has gone on to become a publicly traded company known for colorful cotton clothing.
But it has caused legal problems as well, as former employees accuse the 42-year-old founder of creating a hostile work environment that includes having consensual sex with employees. For his part, Charney has claimed a sexually charged workplace fosters creativity.
Now a former New York employee has filed a $250 million lawsuit claiming Charney was a sexual predator who forced her to perform sex acts and kept her captive for hours. She was 18 at the time. The suit also claims he threatened to fire her if she didn't relent and participate.
Of the several sexual harassment lawsuits filed against Charney in recent years, none have gone to trial. The board has stood behind him; he owns 51.8 percent of the company.
If you need to speak to a sexual harassment attorney in Orange County, contact the California Legal Team at (310) 497-0321 to discuss your rights.
