Amazon sued for failing to protect disabled employee from sexual assault

In Irving, Texas, a father, Louis Williams, has filed a lawsuit against Amazon alleging failure to protect his daughter, who has developmental disabilities, following her abduction and sexual assault by her supervisor, Mario Carranza, in August 2023. Williams claims that his daughter, who was employed at the Amazon warehouse since 2021, became vulnerable to Carranza after he groomed her over several months, gaining her trust before the incident. The lawsuit alleges that Carranza, who had a history of sexual harassment complaints against him, informed the victim they were going on a 'special trip' before taking her to a Motel 6 where the assaults took place. Williams contends that Amazon was aware of Carranza's past complaints and failed to act to protect employees. According to the lawsuit, after the assault, when Williams reported the incident to Amazon, the company's management and human resources department showed indifference and did not cooperate. Instead of addressing the situation promptly, Carranza remained in a position of responsibility within a program supporting individuals with disabilities. Furthermore, separate investigations by the Irving police suggested that Amazon was uncooperative when they attempted to apprehend Carranza, reportedly forcing entry to the warehouse to carry out their duties. Dallas County Jail records indicate that Carranza is charged with a first-degree felony for aggravated sexual assault against a disabled person and is currently out on a $50,000 bond. Following the incident, the lawsuit seeks compensation for the physical and emotional pain suffered by the victim, as well as other damages due to the significant impact this traumatic experience has had on her life. Legal representatives argue that the company's negligence and failure to protect their vulnerable employees was a gross display of corporate apathy that may negatively affect the victim's ability to work in the future. Amazon responded to claims of negligence by stating they have not received any legal documents related to the case and highlighted that Carranza was an hourly employee, contrary to the allegations that he held a supervisory role. Additionally, they clarified that they have been in communication with law enforcement regarding the charges against Carranza. The spokesperson further claimed that Amazon had assisted authorities in identifying Carranza during the police investigation. This incident raises significant questions about corporate responsibility and the protection offered to vulnerable employees within large organizations.