SAN DIEGO — A judge has dismissed a sexual harassment lawsuit against Nathan Fletcher, the former chair of the Metropolitan Transit System (MTS), stemming from allegations made by a former employee. The ruling came from San Diego Superior Court Judge Matthew Braner on Friday.
The lawsuit was filed by Grecia Figueroa, who claimed that Fletcher persuaded MTS leaders to terminate her employment after she reported that he had sexually assaulted her and sent her explicit communications. In his ruling, Judge Braner found that Figueroa had not adequately provided critical evidence, including recordings and text messages exchanged with Fletcher.
During the proceedings, Judge Braner highlighted what he termed “discovery abuses” on Figueroa’s part, stating that her actions warranted the dismissal of the lawsuit. “The litany of discovery abuses perpetrated by Plaintiff in this case warrants termination of her lawsuit,” he said, affirming his decision during the hearing.
Fletcher has firmly denied any wrongdoing, asserting that their interactions were consensual. Last week, the judge had already dismissed Figueroa’s wrongful termination claim against MTS, further distancing Fletcher from the lawsuit’s allegations.
Figueroa’s legal team contended that it was actually Fletcher who failed to produce all relevant evidence in the case. However, the judge did not find their arguments persuasive. In his comments, he underscored Figueroa’s “rampant and willful spoliation of evidence,” further complicating her case.
Following the dismissal, Figueroa’s attorneys announced their intention to appeal the ruling, signaling that the legal battle may continue. The outcome of the appeal process remains to be seen, but the judge’s findings significantly affect the trajectory of the case.
This legal dispute has drawn considerable attention, spotlighting issues of workplace conduct and the handling of allegations of sexual harassment. As developments unfold, both sides remain poised for the next steps in this contentious case.
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