NEW ORLEANS — A former general manager is suing a car dealership, alleging disability discrimination and wrongful termination.
Tom Siravo filed a lawsuit March 28, in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana against Rainbow Luxury Imports LLC alleging violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Louisiana Employment Discrimination Act.
According to the complaint, Siravo, who had been promoted to general manager in 2011, suffered humiliation, embarrassment, mental anguish and financial losses due to loss of employment. The plaintiff alleges Rainbow Luxury Imports violated an agreement by placing a previously terminated employee in the store without Siravo's approval and in preparation for Siravo's termination.
The suit says on Oct. 25, 2015, dealership co-owner Gary Dinicola emailed Siravo, stating he could only remain employed if he would accept the demotion to sales manager, making about 60 percent less money than his original position. The complaint says the plaintiff was terminated Nov. 1, 2015, due to disability discrimination although the defendant stated the reason was “refused other suitable work.”
Siravo seeks a trial by jury, compensation for back pay and front pay, including benefits, punitive damages, pre- and post-judgment interest, attorneys fees, costs and all relief deemed appropriate by the court. He is represented by attorney James L. Arreubarrena of New Orleans.
U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana Case number 2:16-cv-02500