Red Robin to Pay $600,000 in EEOC Sexual Harassment Lawsuit

Summary:

Red Robin International, Inc., a casual dining chain, has agreed to pay $600,000 to four former employees and provide injunctive relief to settle a sexual harassment and retaliation lawsuit filed by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The lawsuit alleged that a male line cook at a Washington state restaurant sexually harassed female employees, including an 18-year-old line cook, with offensive comments, requests for sex, and physical contact, which was tolerated by management. Despite reports of harassment, Red Robin failed to take prompt action, resulting in one female server's resignation. The EEOC's investigation found violations of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and the company has agreed to implement policies to prevent future harassment and retaliation.