State attorney general sues bikini barista coffee stand owner over sexual harassment allegations

The Washington State Attorney General's office has filed a lawsuit against Jonathan Tagle, who owns four bikini barista coffee stands in King and Snohomish counties, for multiple violations of state labor laws. Allegations include severe sexual harassment, where Tagle purportedly required employees to perform sexual acts for employment and subjected them to groping and retaliation. His actions reportedly created a toxic work environment for over a decade, leaving employees stressed and traumatized. The lawsuit also claims he failed to pay workers minimum wage and withheld earned tips, violating the state's Minimum Wage Act. The AG's office seeks to have Tagle barred from further unlawful conduct and demands compensation for affected employees, including unpaid wages and sick leave.

Fair Work Center, a workers' rights organization, referred the case to the AG for investigation. The state emphasizes the importance of protecting worker rights and ensuring fair treatment in the workplace. Employees who worked at Paradise Espresso since 2012 are encouraged to reach out to the AG's Civil Rights Division for support.