On Day 10 of SFMTA Trial When is an alleged bully due millions from his employer?
In the ongoing trial against the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency, former parking control officer Elias Georgopoulos claims he faced harassment and discrimination during his 22 years of employment. However, multiple former coworkers testified that Georgopoulos himself engaged in bullying behavior, particularly towards Black employees, raising doubts about his credibility. The defense shifted focus to whether Georgopoulos followed workplace rules, highlighting his unreported second job as a mobile notary, which city attorneys argue undermines his claims for damages. They presented evidence suggesting he earned over $400,000 as a notary, contradicting his financial expert's estimates of future income loss. Testimony from an economist indicated that Georgopoulos could comfortably live on his city pension, although health issues may affect his retirement timeline.
Georgopoulos, who has rheumatoid arthritis, remained silent during much of the proceedings, while his lawyer emphasized his desire to see his granddaughter succeed. The case underscores the complexities of workplace harassment claims, particularly when allegations of bullying can arise from both parties. The outcome may have significant implications for how such cases are handled in the future.