Some Cautionary Tales

When the EEOC files a lawsuit against an employer or when it settles a case short of trial, it almost always issues a press release. The press release is, of course, one-sided and usually sets forth only the EEOC's view of the facts. As a result, they can be terribly embarrassing for the employer.

Here are summaries of four press releases issued by the EEOC in the past year following settlements with automobile dealerships.

BELL ROAD KIA AND BELL ROAD AUTO MALL in Phoenix paid $500,000 to settle a lawsuit filed by five former employees who alleged racial and sexual harassment. In their complaint, the employees alleged:

• widespread viewing of pornography on dealership computers;