Linda Hassler v. The Talbots Inc.

I.

FACTUAL AND PROCEDURAL BACKGROUND

On April 11, 2019, Plaintiff Linda Hassler filed a Complaint in Los Angeles County Superior Court against Defendants The Talbots, Inc. (“Talbots”) and Wendy Gomez (“Gomez”), a Talbots loss prevention manager. [Doc. # 1, Ex. A (“Complaint”).] Hassler filed a first amended complaint on June 24, 2019. [Doc. # 1, Ex. C (“FAC”).] The FAC alleges causes of action for: (1) disparate treatment in violation of the Fair Employment and Housing Act (“FEHA”); (2) discrimination in violation of FEHA California Government Code section 129040(j) based on race, color, national origin, and/or ancestry; (3) retaliation for complaining of discrimination in violation of FEHA; (4) failure to prevent discrimination and retaliation in violation of FEHA, Government Code section 12940(k); (5) violation of California Labor Code section 1102.5; (6) wrongful termination in violation of public policy; and (7) intentional infliction of emotional distress (“IIED”).

Hassler brings claims one through six against Talbots, and claim seven against all Defendants, including Gomez. Id. The FAC alleges that Hassler resides in…