Two former employees of a local medical practice are suing a doctor and the practice, alleging unwelcome sexual talk and propositions.
Norma Mahler and Tiffany Roberts Schacherl of Metairie filed a lawsuit June 18 in U.S. District Court Eastern District of Louisiana against Dr. Stephen E. Metzinger, also of Metairie, and Aesthetic Surgical Associates.
The plaintiffs, both at formerly employed by the defendants, originally filed the claim March 20, with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, which has issued them a right to sue.
According to the complaint, "Throughout their employment [from February 2007 for Norma Mahler, and August 2009 for Roberts Schacherl until Jan. 12, 2001], both plaintiffs were subjected to unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors [and] unwelcome sexual touching--all of which created an intimidating and hostile daily working environment."
The suit says Metzinger subjected them to "constant discussions of sexual activities," including "remarks about the sexual nature of plaintiffs' personal relationships," displaying porn videos and pictures at work and alternating bullying with sexual advances.
The lawsuit states "The defendant took advantage of plaintiffs' circumstances as single mothers in need of employment to make his sexual advances, knowing it would be difficult for the plaintiffs to simply resign."
Mahler and Schacherl seek a jury trial and damages of more than $75,000 each, plus costs. They are represented by attorney Ralph S. Whalen Jr. of New Orleans.
U.S. District Court Eastern District of Louisiana case number 2:15-cv-02223-NJB-JC.