Ex-Waffle House cook claims manager ‘constantly’ groped her rear end as company ignored complaints
A former Waffle House employee says she was forced to leave her job after her supervisor allegedly sexually harassed her, claiming the company ignored her complaints and ultimately held her responsible, according to a federal lawsuit.
Marilyn Smith, who started as a grill operator in July 2024, alleges that within months her male supervisor began groping her, repeatedly touching her “buttocks” at work despite her protests, according to court documents obtained by The Independent.
Smith reportedly raised her concerns with the restaurant chain’s district manager multiple times, but says her complaints were dismissed. The alleged harassment reportedly continued and worsened, leading Smith to resign less than seven months later after the company disciplined her instead of the supervisor, according to the Dec. 23 filing.
The lawsuit describes her departure as a “constructive discharge,” meaning her resignation may not have been voluntary. “Ms. Smith’s case, unfortunately, is indicative of the type of harassment and conduct imposed on females in the workplace,” her North Charleston attorney, Matthew King, told The Independent.
King added, “It also reflects the protect-the-company mindset of managers and HR personnel that many hourly workers may not be aware of. Ms. Smith is standing up for herself through this case, hoping others won’t have to endure what she did.”
Smith, who earned at least $10 an hour, is seeking back pay, front pay, benefits, and both compensatory and punitive damages. She is also pursuing compensation for “embarrassment and humiliation,” according to the suit.
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