Associate Warden Sexually Harasses Subordinate Corrections Officer Lawsuit Alleges

Matthew A. Luber, R. Armen McOmber, and Tyler J. Burrell represent an Essex County Corrections Officer, Daniela Agudelo, in a sexual harassment, discrimination, and retaliation case pursuant to the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (“NJLAD”) against Defendants County of Essex, Antonio Pires, and Michael Costa.

As alleged in the Complaint, Defendant Pires, one of the highest-ranking officers at the prison, subjected Ms. Agudelo to repeated and egregious sexual harassment.  As alleged in the complaint, Defendant Pires, who is 48 years old and married, exploited his position of authority to manipulate and coerce Plaintiff, a 32-year-old female, into a sexual relationship.  As described in the complaint, Defendant Pires sent text messages to Ms. Agudelo, “Cause I do thinking of you and your fake boobs” and “I have much love for you, so much, that I am willing to let my imaginary relationship go to let you fly high.”  Defendant Pires also allegedly showered Ms. Agudelo with gifts and conditioned her career advancement on a sexual relationship.  When Ms. Agudelo rejected Defendant Pires’ advances, Defendant Pires allegedly retaliated by ordering his officers, “she needs to be buried” subsequently eliminating her overtime ability and reassigning her to unfavorable shifts.  The lawsuit seeks compensatory and punitive damages, as well as a jury trial for the alleged unlawful retaliation in violation of New Jersey law.

“The allegations are deeply troubling and Ms. Agudelo has suffered immensely.  As alleged in the Complaint, our client was subjected to unequivocal sexual harassment and an unlawful quid pro quo relationship.  We are proud of her for taking a stand against such an abuse of power and privilege.” 

      Matthew A. Luber, Esq. and Managing Partner of McOmber McOmber & Luber, P.C.

“We fully expect that Ms. Agudelo’s co-workers will come forward and corroborate the allegations. Our client also looks forward to her day in court.” 

      Tyler J. Burrell, Esq. of McOmber McOmber & Luber, P.C.