SAN DIEGO — More than 500 Cheesecake Factory cleaners who worked at restaurants in San Diego and Orange counties may be eligible to recover stolen wages.
The Department of Industrial Relations has identified 60 cleaners who worked for companies that contracted or subcontracted to The Cheesecake Factory. More than 500 janitors may be eligible to receive a portion of the settlement, which totals $1 million in stolen wages.
The California Labor Commission investigated the location of the cheesecake factory and concluded that workers were working through the night without meals or breaks. Employees will also undergo a manager walk-through to be released from their shift.
A Labor Relations Commission investigation found that walk-throughs create more work, resulting in up to 10 hours of unpaid overtime each week.
“As we worked late into the night cleaning restaurant kitchens and dining rooms, we realized that our employers and restaurant owners were taking advantage of us. “It took a lot of courage, but we did it,'' says Naxili Perez, a former employee at Cheesecake Factory Restaurant in San Diego. “Many companies think they can avoid liability by hiring contractors.'' If there is a violation of the law within your company, “You are responsible. The Cheesecake Factory now understands that there are no shortcuts when it comes to workers' rights.”
Are you eligible?
You may qualify if you worked in the following locations:
- Cheesecake Factory Harbor Drive
- Cheesecake Factory Friars Road
- Cheesecake Factory Escondido
Cleaners employed by The Cheesecake Factory between August 31, 2014 and August 31, 2017 are asked to call 619-213-5260.
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