Satrap
Satrap v. Pacific Gas & Electric Co.
Opinion
Opinion
Stein, J.
Eugene Satrap appeals an order denying his motion, pursuant to Code of Civil Procedure section 1021.5, for attorney fees incurred in litigating his complaint for, inter alia, breach of contract, invasion of privacy and wrongful termination in violation of public policy against his former employer Pacific Gas and Electric Company (hereinafter PG&E).
Facts
Appellant was hired by PG&E in 1962, and was ultimately promoted to the position of manager of gas supply. In April of 1989, PG&E’s corporate security department received a complaint of conflicts of interest, misuse of time and kickbacks in the PG&E gas supply department. In August of 1989, appellant received a letter informing him that the investigation had given PG&E “reasonable cause to believe that you have engaged in serious misconduct.... The allegations involve misuse of Company resources for personal purposes and conflicts of interest in the course of your duties as Manager.” Appellant was placed on administrative leave pending further investigation. One week later an industry newspaper, apparently relying on the statement of a PG&E employee, incorrectly reported that appellant was being investigated for…