PITTSBURGH— A Mount Pleasant man is suing an industrial company, alleging workplace hostility due to his disabilities.
Stephen R. Knopp filed a complaint Feb. 12 in U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania against Bergen Power Pipe Supports Inc, and Pipe Supports Ltd, with offices in Donora, alleging hostility.
According to the complaint, Knopp suffers from learning disabilities, which causes him a speech impediment. On June 30, 2008, the plaintiff says he was hired as a welder but alleges he has been subjected to harassment because of his disability.
The suit states Knopp was continuously taunted and called names, including "idiot,"worthless" and "stupid," unfairly accused of recklessness and his personal effects tampered with. Although Knopp made complaints, the suit states, Bergen filed to take action, which caused Knopp physical distress and affected his work.
Between July 28, 2014 and Jan. 5, 2016, the plaintiff has filed EEOC questionnaires. He is suing for a hostile work environment.
Knopp seeks damages for attorney fees, court costs and legal relief, plus compensatory damage. He is represented by attorney Lawrence D. Kerr of Tremba, Kinney, Greiner & Kerr LLC in Greensburg.
U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania Case number 2:16-cv-00162