Disclaimer:
The case on which this summary is based may no longer be current law.
Also, if the case was decided on summary judgment, the court recited the
"facts" in the light most favorable to the non-movant, which may not be
the true facts.
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Malone v. Eaton Corp., 187 F.3d 960 (8th Cir.
August 11, 1999)Keywords: Title VII (sex discrimination, wrongful
termination)
Introduction: Michael Malone sued Eaton under Title VII for sex
discrimination as a result of his termination. The district court granted summary judgment
on behalf of Eaton. The Eighth Circuit affirms.
Facts: Malone, a supervisor, was questioned about having an
inappropriate relationship with a female under his supervision. He denied the rumor and
that was the end of the matter. Later, Malone admitted to three other supervisors that he
was having an affair with another female. This was reported to management. Malone was
brought in and told to tell the truth. He lied. He was terminated.
Law:
- Malone argues that a female supervisor who was accused of similar
conduct was treated more leniently.
- The Eighth Circuit disagrees. As with Malone's first incident, there was
just a rumor. The female supervisor denied the rumor and the matter was dropped.
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