Jackson Homes sued by worker over retaliatory discharge

Alan Jakul, Jr. is suing Jackson Homes, Inc. alleging he was wrongfully terminated after filing a workers' compensation claim last year.

According to a suit filed May 13 in St. Clair County Circuit Court, Jakul was hurt on the job on Dec. 26, 2008.

"Whereafter, Plaintiff notified Defendant of his intention to assert his rights pursuant to the Illinois Workers' Compensation Act and subsequently exercised his right to request medical treatment for his work injury at the expense of Defendant," the complaint states.

"That medical treatment was authorized by the insurance company for Defendant."

Jakul claims he was discharged the same day he asserted his benefits claim.

He says he has been deprived of his lawful employment, has lost income and benefits, including but not limited to wages, pension and/or health care benefits. He also claims he sustained injury to his reputation and has sustained mental anguish.

Jakul is seeking in excess of $50,000 in compensatory damages and in excess of $50,000 in punitive damages. He is represented by Daniel Juncker of Belleville.

St. Clair County case number: 09L247.