A fired worker's noose complaint sends a strong warning to HR leaders about investigating racial harassment claims
A noose in the workplace and a disputed firing have put employer harassment investigations under scrutiny in a recent Ohio appellate court decision.
Jhalil Croley, a heavy equipment operator, filed suit against JDM Services, LLC, doing business as Frank Road Recycling Solutions, and co-owner Joseph Loewendick. Croley, an African American, alleged that after being hired through a staffing agency in January 2020, he discovered a noose tied to the rearview mirror of the compactor he was assigned to operate. According to the complaint, Croley reported the incident to his career advisor and to the staffing agency, which said it would contact management.
The complaint states that Croley’s first days on the job involved training and equipment operation at the landfill. On January 14, 2020, Croley was directed to operate the compactor. During this shift, he claims he found the noose, which he described as “freshly-tied” and without dirt. Croley took a photo of the noose, left it in the compactor, and later placed it outside the employee trailer before leaving for the day.
That night, Croley contacted his career advisor at Jewish Family Services, who advised him to document the incident. The next morning, Croley sent a photo of the noose to the staffing agency, which indicated it would inform the general manager. When Croley arrived at work, the general manager said he...
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