A former employee has filed a lawsuit against her previous employer, alleging multiple labor law violations. Brianna Lopez filed the complaint in Ventura Superior Court on August 22, 2024, accusing APRO LLC of failing to accurately calculate and pay overtime wages, among other grievances.
Lopez, who worked as a part-time sales associate at Apro LLC's United Pacific Rockets 76 location in Camarillo, California, claims that during her employment from November 3, 2021, to November 21, 2022, she was not properly compensated for overtime hours. According to the complaint, "Plaintiff often worked well over eight (8) hours in a day and/or forty (40) hours in a work week but was not properly and accurately paid overtime wages for that work." Lopez also alleges that she was denied lawful meal and rest periods due to the demands placed upon her by the company. She asserts that these practices are in direct violation of California labor laws.
The lawsuit further contends that Lopez identified several improper and illegal practices at the convenience store and gas station where she worked. Despite notifying her supervisor about these issues, no corrective action was taken. The complaint states: "Plaintiff opposed and/or reported Defendant’s improper pattern and course of conduct; Defendants either dismissed or ignored Plaintiff's complaints and concerns."
In addition to the failure to pay overtime wages and provide meal and rest periods, Lopez accuses APRO LLC of unfair competition. She argues that the company's actions have been harmful not only to her but also to its competitors and the general public. The complaint cites violations of California Business and Professions Code §§17200 et seq., which addresses unlawful business acts.
Lopez is seeking compensatory damages for unpaid wages, penalties for missed meal and rest breaks, waiting time penalties for late payment of final wages upon termination, as well as general damages for emotional distress. She is also asking for punitive damages, interest on unpaid amounts, attorney's fees, costs of suit incurred, and any other relief deemed proper by the court.
The case is being handled by attorneys William J. Weilbacher Jr. from Weilbacher & Weilbacher APC. The case ID is 2024CUOQE029025.