EDWARDSVILLE - A former Ford dealership employee claims he was harassed and then discriminated against due to his age.
Thomas Crosby filed suit July 2 in Madison County Circuit Court against Weber Granite City Ford, which took over ownership of the dealership in 2017.
He alleges the defendants violated the Illinois Human Rights Act. Crosby also allegedly filed a claim with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission claiming harassment, age discrimination and retaliation.
According to the complaint, Crosby claims his problems began after the defendant took over the company. Crosby alleges he worked with the company prior to the switch in ownership with no problems and won several awards.
Crosby claims he was subject to harassment following the change in ownership in February 2017. He claims he made a complaint to the company in August and was terminated the next month. He alleges he was fired due to his age. He also claims his employment was terminated after other employees over the age of 50 were replaced by younger workers.
Crosby accuses the company of "evil motive and intent, with reckless and callous indifference" to his rights.
The plaintiff seeks compensatory and punitive damages for "extreme mental anguish" and harm to his reputation among other claims. He also seeks back pay under the retaliation claim.
Crosby is represented by Morgan Scroggins of Scroggins Law Office in Granite City.
Madison County Circuit Court case number 2020-L-907