Frankie Archuleta, a former employee of a California-based company, has filed a lawsuit alleging wrongful termination and various forms of workplace discrimination. The complaint was lodged by Jay S. Rothman & Associates on behalf of Archuleta in the Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara, against Banner Industries on August 19, 2025.
The lawsuit accuses Banner Industries of multiple violations under California employment laws. According to the complaint, Archuleta was wrongfully terminated and subjected to harassment, discrimination, and retaliation during his tenure as a Material Handler from 2021 until August 2024. The plaintiff alleges that he was targeted due to his disability and gender identity, leading to an unjust termination following an on-the-job injury that required light-duty work accommodations. Despite initially accommodating his need for light duty after the injury, Banner Industries allegedly terminated him once they decided not to continue providing such accommodations.
Archuleta claims that the hostile work environment was exacerbated by coworker Anthony Hall’s behavior and inadequate supervision from Scott Irvine, who was located in another city. Hall allegedly assaulted Archuleta by making derogatory remarks about his gender identity and challenging him to physical altercations. Furthermore, the complaint states that Banner Industries failed to engage in the interactive process or provide reasonable accommodations for Archuleta’s disability as mandated by both the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA).
In addition to wrongful termination claims under California Government Code §§ 12900 et seq., Archuleta accuses Banner Industries of violating public policy through their discriminatory practices. He also charges them with assault and unfair competition under Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code § 17200 et seq., arguing that these actions have caused him significant emotional distress and financial loss.
The plaintiff seeks several forms of relief from the court: compensatory damages for lost wages and emotional distress; punitive damages intended to punish Banner Industries for their alleged misconduct; restitution for any ill-gotten gains obtained through unfair business practices; attorney’s fees; costs incurred during litigation; prejudgment interest; and any other relief deemed appropriate by the court.
Jay S. Rothman represents Frankie Archuleta in this case before Judge A. Hernandez at the Superior Court of California in Santa Clara County under Case No. 25CV473068.
Source: 25CV473068_Frankie_Archuleta_v_Banner_Industries_Complaint_County_of_Santa_Clara.pdf
