Woman alleges sexual harassment forced her to resign

A woman has filed suit against her former employer, alleging she was forced to resign after she was sexually harassed.

Amber Pickett alleges she was working for defendants Ronald Thorp and Maaco Auto Body beginning Jan. 7, 2013. In April 2013, Pickett was sexually harassed, according to the complaint filed Dec. 12 in Madison County Circuit Court. The harassment continued through April 25, 2014, the suit states.

"Said sexual harassment was both physical and verbal, all of which was unwelcome," the complaint says. "[The] sexual harassment became so severe and pervasive, the plaintiff was forced to resign her employment on or about April 25."

Because of the incident, Pickett alleges she experienced pain and suffering, lost her normal life, suffered mental anguish and lost her enjoyment of life. She also lost wages, the suit states.

She seeks a judgment of more than $50,000, plus costs.

Attorney Thomas O. Falb, of Williamson, Webster, Falb and Glisson in Alton, will represent Pickett.

Madison County Circuit Court case number: 14-L-1692