A fired trainer wins millions after alleging her employer retaliated with a lawsuit – here's what HR needs to know
A $2.5 million jury verdict in Indiana has highlighted the risks for employers who pursue legal action against workers after harassment complaints.
On October 20, 2025, the Court of Appeals of Indiana affirmed a jury’s decision in favor of Jarissa Gillaspy, a former personal trainer at Club Newtone, Inc., who alleged she was targeted after reporting sexual harassment by the gym’s owner, Marc Vaughn. The outcome offers a clear lesson for HR leaders about the consequences of responding to workplace complaints with litigation.
According to the court record, Gillaspy worked as a personal trainer, fitness instructor, and group fitness coordinator at Club Newtone, a gym in Lafayette, Indiana, owned by Vaughn. She alleged that Vaughn made frequent remarks about her appearance and engaged in unwanted advances. The complaint describes an incident in February 2018, when Gillaspy said Vaughn attempted to kiss her and pull down her pants during a training session at his home.
After this incident, Gillaspy reported Vaughn’s conduct to her supervisors at Newtone. She was told to avoid further contact with Vaughn. In August 2018, Gillaspy filed a charge of discrimination with the Indiana Civil Rights Commission and the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. Shortly after, Newtone implemented new monthly minimum sales goals for personal trainers. Because Gillaspy...
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