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PENNSYLVANIA RECORD

Thursday, March 28, 2024

Trucker accuses former employer of wrongful termination

Braddock resident accuses Baker Hughes Corporation of racial discrimination

PITTSBURGH — An equipment operator is suing Baker Hughes Corporation, a former employer, citing alleged racial discrimination, retaliation and wrongful termination.

Donald Byrd filed a complaint on April 22, in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania against Baker Hughes Corporation alleging that the former employer allegedly treated him less favorably with regard to discipline and pay than white employees.

According to the complaint, the plaintiff alleges that on August 17 2013, defendant served him with a final written warning and alleged that he disobeyed instructions, because he did not drive safely. Despite its belief that he did not drive safely, defendant assigned him to drive HAZMAT trucks containing acid. He was denied the premium associated with the position and the per diem provided to white drivers. He was drug tested more often than white drivers. He was placed on a paid leave on May 6, 2014 but was not paid. He was terminated on May 16, 2014 with no explanation. The plaintiff holds Baker Hughes Corporation responsible because the defendant allegedly discriminated against him and subjected him to a hostile work environment, unequal drug testing, unequal discipline, unequal pay and failed to impose corrective action.

The plaintiff requests a trial by jury and seeks compensation for punitive damages, for willful and malicious violations of federal law, all costs, expenses and attorney's fees. He is represented by Erik M. Yurkovich of Erik M. Yurkovich, Attorney at Law in Wexford.

U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania Case number 2:16-cv-00495

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