An Illinois woman is suing a health care business, alleging she was terminated for seeking workers compensation benefits.
Rosanita Valentine filed a lawsuit Nov. 9 in St. Clair County Circuit Court against Vitas Healthcare Corporation, alleging retaliation and harassment.
According to the complaint, on Aug. 15, 2013, Valentine, a nurse's aide, injured her back and hip while tending to Vitas patients. She sought medical treatment and soon thereafter returned to work.
On Nov. 11, 2013, the suit says, the plaintiff was terminated despite her satisfactory work performance. The lawsuit states her termination was due to the fact she had pursued a workers compensation claim for her injuries.
Because of the termination, the plaintiff is charging the defendant with retaliation and malicious action with intent to coerce, harass and discriminate. The action was also designed to financially injure the plaintiff, the suit says.
Valentine seeks $250,000 in damages, plus court costs. She is represented by attorney Samuel a. Mormino Jr. of Mormino, Belloff & Snider of Alton.
St. Clair County Circuit Court case number 15-L-639.