A shocking case of alleged age discrimination has emerged, involving a well-known manufacturer and one of its former employees. Robert Murphy filed a complaint against Semler Industries, Inc. in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois on September 3, 2024.
Murphy, who was employed as a Territory Manager at Semler Industries, claims that he was terminated due to his age in violation of both the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) and the Illinois Human Rights Act (IHRA). The complaint details how Murphy, despite his stellar performance and significant contributions to the company, was abruptly fired without explanation on September 15, 2023. He alleges that this termination was influenced by discriminatory remarks made by his direct supervisor, Adam Pankoff.
According to the complaint, Murphy began working for Semler Industries on July 11, 2022. He quickly excelled in his role, building an extensive customer base that included major accounts like British Petroleum. Despite never being placed on a performance-improvement plan or receiving any disciplinary actions, Murphy's employment came to an unexpected end when Pankoff terminated him without providing any reasons. The complaint highlights that prior to this termination, Pankoff had made derogatory comments about Murphy’s age to other colleagues. Specifically, Pankoff allegedly told Salim Rowe, Director of Business Development at Semler Industries, that Murphy was "too old to get it" and "too old to last in his role."
Further allegations include inappropriate inquiries about Murphy's age from Loren Semler, President of Semler Industries. These actions contribute to what Murphy describes as a clear animus toward older employees within the company. The complaint also notes that younger colleagues with similar or lesser performance records were not subjected to similar treatment.
Murphy is seeking several forms of relief from the court. He requests compensatory damages for lost earnings and benefits as well as emotional distress caused by the termination. Additionally, he seeks punitive damages and coverage for legal costs and non-taxable expenses incurred during this action.
Representing Robert Murphy is Michael A. Faccenda from Faccenda Law Group LLC based in La Grange, Illinois. The case has been assigned Case No. 24-cv-8004 and will be presided over by judges from the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois.