A former employee has taken legal action against a veterinary corporation, alleging multiple labor law violations. Sergio Garcia filed a complaint on May 2, 2025, in the Superior Court of California, County of Ventura, against Junebug Veterinary Corp., Inc., Mary Ashley Waikart, and unnamed defendants. The lawsuit claims that the defendants failed to comply with various provisions of the California Labor Code.
Garcia's allegations stem from his employment as an Inventory Specialist at Junebug Veterinary Corp. from August 2023 to January 6, 2025. He accuses the company and its officer, Mary Ashley Waikart, of not providing proper meal and rest periods as required by law. According to Garcia, he often worked shifts exceeding five hours without receiving compliant meal breaks or adequate compensation for missed breaks. "Defendants effectively maintained control over Plaintiff during the meal periods that were provided," states the complaint. Additionally, Garcia alleges that he did not receive accurate wage statements or reimbursement for business expenses incurred during his employment.
The lawsuit further claims violations of the Equal Pay Act, asserting that Garcia was paid less than his female counterparts despite performing more work and fulfilling more roles. He contends that there was no legitimate factor other than gender or ethnicity justifying this pay disparity. Moreover, Garcia accuses the defendants of failing to pay wages upon termination and maintaining inaccurate payroll records.
Garcia seeks compensatory damages for lost wages and statutory penalties under various sections of the California Labor Code. He also demands injunctive relief to prevent ongoing unfair business practices by Junebug Veterinary Corp., Inc., and restitution for unpaid wages. The complaint highlights violations under sections including but not limited to 226.7 (meal and rest periods), 512 (meal periods), 2800 & 2802 (reimbursement for business expenses), and 1197.5 (Equal Pay Act).
Representing Garcia are attorneys Mark A. Ozzello and Calvin A. Marshall from The Ozzello Practice, PC in Calabasas, CA. The case is filed under Case No. 2025 CWOEO0435452 in front of Judge E. Biaker at Ventura Superior Court.