Schnucks worker claims retaliatory discharge

A Madison County woman accuses Schnucks of firing her as retaliation following an on-the-job injury.

Bonnie L. Ver Steegt filed the complaint against Schnuck Markets Inc. on Dec. 9 in Madison County Circuit Court. Ver Steegt claims her former employer fired her as retaliation for filing a worker's compensation claim.

According to the lawsuit, Ver Steegt has worked for Schnuck Markets in Collinsville since 1979. She says she was injured at work in June and had to be treated by a doctor. In July, Ver Steegt says a store manager called to tell her she was being fired from her job.

Ver Steegt contends Schnuck Markets' termination of her employment constitutes wrongful and/or retaliatory discharge. Along with lost wages and benefits, Ver Steegt says she has suffered embarrassment, humiliation, emotional distress and a loss of reputation.

Ver Steegt is asking to be awarded more than $50,000 in actual damages. She argues her former employer's action was willful, wanton, intentional and malicious and is asking to be awarded punitive damages as well.

Attorney Mark S. Schuver of Mathis, Marifian & Richter LTD in Belleville is representing Ver Steegt.

Madison County Circuit Court case no. 10-L-1226.