MADISON - ST. CLAIR RECORD

A former employee alleges he lost his job after he filed for workers' compensation benefits.

Thomas Krohn alleges he was working for defendant Crothall Healthcare on Nov. 11, 2013, when he sustained injuries while on the job. In turn, he filed for benefits under the Illinois Workers' Compensation Act, according to the complaint field Jan. 30 in Madison County Circuit Court.

After he filed for the benefits, Krohn was threatened with termination, the suit states.

On Oct. 27, 2014, Krohn was discharged because of the workers' compensation claim he had made nearly a year earlier, the complaint says. Due to his job loss, Krohn alleges he lost wages, incurred costs in order to secure subsequent employment and suffered humiliation and mental anguish.

"The actions of defendant, Crothall Healthcare, in discharging plaintiff from his employment were willful, wanton, malicious and in disregard for his rights," the suit states.

Krohn seeks a judgment between $50,000 and $75,000 and punitive damages between $50,000 and $75,000, plus costs and other relief the court deems just.

Attorneys Keith Short and Sheina Franco of the Law Office of Keith Short in Edwardsville will represent Krohn.

Madison County Circuit Court case number: 15-L-112.