Sexual harassment, retaliatory discharge alleged in suit against Eagle Publications

Kristin Tamburello of Maryville is suing her former employer, Eagle Publications of Collinsville, claiming retaliatory discharge and sexual harassment.

According to a complaint filed Oct. 6 in Madison County Circuit Court, Tamburello complained to her employer that she was being subjected to a sexually hostile work environment, but the company allegedly failed to take any steps to stop the unwelcome conduct.

Tamburello, who worked for the company as an inside sales person, alleges that co-worker Justin Norton subjected her to harassment.

She claims she complained about the allegedly offensive conduct to management, which included Norton's wife and mother and father, but inappropriate conduct continued.

According to the complaint, Tamburello was given unfavorable work assignments because she complained about Norton's actions. She claims she was transferred to an outside sales position with new duties and responsibilities.

"Tamburello was not given appropriate training for her new position and did not receive accounts or other information that would have allowed her to meet the company's goals," the complaint states.

"After complaints of Justin Norton's sexual harassment to Eagle Publications management … Tamburello was discharged from her employment."

In the suit, Tamburello also seeks damages from Norton individually for allegedly creating a hostile work environment, inflicting emotional distress, interfering with her economic advantage and invading her privacy.

She also names Marty Norton individually in the 10-count suit.

Tamburello is represented by Collinsville attorney Michael J. Brunton.

She seeks in excess of $500,000 in compensatory damages, plus punitive damages.