Whistleblower sues Treasure Chest after losing job

A former Treasure Chest casino employee claims he was terminated from his position after the casino learned he was reporting their allegedly illegal hiring practices.

Captain Lester "Bosco" Ledet filed a lawsuit against Treasure Chest Casino on Nov. 22 in Jefferson Parish District Court. The defendant removed the case to federal court in New Orleans on Dec. 16.

According to the complaint, Ledet was hired as a licensed master and navigator of the casino ship located in Jefferson Parish. Although the vessel never traveled, he states he was required to maintain a license or certificate of eligibility for the gaming establishment. Ledet states that part of maintaining his license included making reports to the Louisiana State Police gaming investigations unit regarding violations of gaming and other laws.

The defendant was allegedly notified in November 2009 by the state police that there was a pending investigation regarding its hiring practices. The investigation was based on Ledet's reports.

Ledet states that when the casino learned of Ledet's role in the investigation, the casino suspended him on a pretext without a warning. Ledet was subsequently terminated from his position, the suit claims.

The plaintiff is asking the court for an award of front pay for the
wrongful termination and for back wages and expenses, unused vacation pay, penalty wages, interest and attorney's fees.

Ledet is represented by Jack H. Tobias of Tobias and Wilson in New Orleans.

Case No. 2:10-cv-04561