Kirkland LA Quinta Target Of Lawsuit -- Fired Hotel Worker Claims Harassment

KIRKLAND

A Seattle woman has filed a suit against La Quinta Inns of Texas, claiming she was fired after complaining to the managers at the Kirkland La Quinta that she was sexually assaulted by a supervisor earlier this year.

The suit, filed in King County Superior Court, alleges that the 59-year-old woman, hired in 1995 in maintenance, was also subjected to a pattern of unwelcome and offensive acts of sexual harassment, profanity and name-calling by her supervisor while she worked there.

Despite complaints to management, she said no corrective action was taken.

She contends that a manager allegedly told her to "kiss and make up" with her supervisor.

She was told the matter would be reported to the corporate office and to keep the matter confidential, the suit says.

In addition, the woman accuses management of making false statements to co-workers and hotel guests that she was involved in the sale of illegal drugs.

Maureen Moore, attorney for La Quinta Inns in Dallas, said the company has a policy of not commenting on ongoing litigation.

Louis T. Corsaletti's phone message number is 206-515-5626. His e-mail address is: lcor-new@seatimes.com