A semi-truck driver alleges racial discrimination and civil rights violations in a lawsuit filed against a travel center operator. On June 14, 2024, Roy L. Dampier filed a complaint in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois against TA Operating LLC, doing business as TravelCenters of America, along with Shaun Mitchell and an unidentified Travel Center Manager.
The case stems from an incident on January 11-12, 2023, when Dampier visited a TravelCenters of America location in Hampshire, Illinois, for vehicle repairs. According to the complaint, a disagreement arose over the scope and cost of repairs. Dampier claims that Shaun Mitchell, the Service Center Manager at the time, attempted to charge him for unauthorized and substandard work. When Dampier questioned these charges, Mitchell allegedly became hostile and refused to complete the repairs or allow Dampier to leave with his vehicle. The complaint states that Mitchell told Dampier, "How dare YOU question me about a work order?" and later added, "Y’ALL PEOPLE need to be taught a lesson," which Dampier interpreted as racially charged language directed at him as an African American.
Dampier further alleges that Mitchell called the police to have him arrested on disorderly conduct charges after he complained about his treatment. This led to legal expenses and missed work opportunities for Dampier. Additionally, when he requested to use the restroom at the travel center, another employee was instructed by Mitchell to escort him and stand outside while he used it.
The lawsuit accuses TA Operating LLC and its employees of violating Sections 1981 and 1982 of Title 42 of the U.S. Code by discriminating against Dampier based on his race. These sections guarantee equal rights under contracts and property laws regardless of race. The plaintiff seeks compensatory damages for lost income due to delayed vehicle repairs caused by racial discrimination. He also requests punitive damages for emotional distress inflicted by Mitchell's actions.
Dampier is represented by attorney James C. Vlahakis from Vlahakis Law Group LLC in Chicago. The case has been assigned Case No. 1:24-cv-04961.