Bronx Woman Sues Costco Over Alleged Retaliation Following Sexual Harassment Report
A former Costco employee in East Harlem has filed a lawsuit alleging that her supervisor sexually harassed her and that the company retaliated by firing her after she reported the misconduct. The complaint, filed in Manhattan Supreme Court, details specific incidents of inappropriate behavior and claims that management ignored multiple complaints.
Key points
- A Bronx woman filed a lawsuit on October 1, 2026, against Costco in Manhattan Supreme Court, alleging sexual harassment and retaliation.
- The plaintiff, who worked at the East Harlem location on East 117th Street for two years, claims her supervisor, Andrea Mills, engaged in hostile behavior starting in October 2024.
- Alleged incidents include Mills shouting that the employee was a 'very busty woman' and invading her personal space at the cash register while singing that she was 'the most beautiful girl in the room.'
- The employee claims she made at least five verbal complaints and one formal report, but no action was taken; instead, she was labeled a 'troublemaker' and received a performance review stating she 'needs to stop thinking people are attacking her.'
- Following a heated argument in December 2024, the plaintiff was fired in January 2025, which she alleges was retaliation for reporting the harassment.
Background
This lawsuit follows a pattern of high-profile harassment claims against public figures and organizations seen in recent months, such as the St. Paul police chief's suit against the mayor and the legal action against Chavez-related nonprofits. However, this case is distinct as it involves a private retail corporation and a lower-level supervisory dispute rather than a political or historical figure.
Why it matters
The case highlights ongoing concerns regarding workplace harassment and the effectiveness of corporate reporting mechanisms. It raises questions about whether large retailers like Costco adequately address complaints from employees and whether they protect whistleblowers from retaliatory termination.
What to watch
The lawsuit is now pending in Manhattan Supreme Court. Costco, the supervisor Andrea Mills, and the plaintiff's attorney have not yet responded to requests for comment. The outcome will depend on the evidence presented regarding the alleged harassment and the timing of the termination relative to the complaints.
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