Anderson v. Adam's Mark Hotels

**Anderson v. Adam's Mark Hotels: Court Rules Hotel Not Liable for Off-Duty Employee's Sexual Assault** This case involved an employee who was sexually assaulted by a co-worker from Adam's Mark Hotels. The assault happened away from the workplace and when the co-worker was off duty. The victim sued the hotel, claiming the company failed to properly supervise employees, didn't investigate complaints, and allowed discrimination and harassment to occur. The court ruled in favor of Adam's Mark Hotels and dismissed all claims against the company. The Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals found that because the sexual assault happened off company property by an employee who wasn't working at the time, the hotel could not be held responsible under federal employment discrimination laws or other legal theories the victim raised. **What this means for workers:** This ruling shows the limits of when employers can be held liable for employee misconduct. Generally, companies are only responsible for harassment or assault that occurs in connection with work activities or on company property. If a co-worker commits a crime against you outside of work, your employer typically won't be legally responsible, even if you both work for the same company.