SFMTA trial Day 8 Hes a dick, former coworker says of plaintiff
In the eighth day of Elias Georgopoulos’ trial against the SFMTA, former co-worker Sterling Haywood testified, labeling Georgopoulos as a major contributor to workplace hostility. Haywood, who is Black, described his experiences of racism within the agency and lamented the lack of response to numerous complaints about Georgopoulos' behavior. Georgopoulos, alleging discrimination, claimed he was called derogatory terms by colleagues, including the current director of parking enforcement. In contrast, Haywood accused Georgopoulos of creating a hostile environment and misusing his authority. Court records reveal a history of Georgopoulos facing lawsuits for harassment, further complicating the narrative.
Haywood's testimony aligns with other employees' accounts of a toxic workplace culture at SFMTA. The agency's inaction on complaints raises serious questions about its commitment to fostering a respectful work environment. The trial sheds light on the broader issue of discrimination within municipal agencies.