The family of former Boeing employee John Barnett has filed a lawsuit alleging that the aerospace giant subjected him to a campaign of harassment, abuse and intimidation leading up to his death. Barnett, a quality control engineer, had previously raised significant concerns about safety practices at Boeing's North Charleston, South Carolina, plant. He claimed that under pressure to meet production deadlines, the company compromised on quality control, potentially jeopardizing passenger safety.
The lawsuit alleges that after Barnett reported these concerns, he faced retaliation from Boeing management. This included unwarranted disciplinary actions, attempts to discredit his work, and a generally hostile work environment. The family believes that this sustained pressure significantly impacted Barnett's mental and emotional well-being.
Barnett was in the midst of giving deposition testimony in his whistleblower lawsuit against Boeing when he was found dead earlier this month. Authorities are investigating his death. Boeing has previously denied Barnett's allegations regarding safety standards. The company stated they are cooperating with the investigation into Barnett's death. The lawsuit seeks unspecified damages for the alleged emotional distress and suffering Barnett endured.
Boeing Whistleblower's Family Alleges Harassment Before Death
The family of John Barnett, a former Boeing employee who recently died, is accusing the company of creating a hostile work environment. According to a lawsuit, Barnett faced a sustained campaign of harassment and intimidation after raising concerns about safety standards. The lawsuit claims this treatment contributed to his mental distress. Boeing has not yet issued a formal response to the allegations.
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