Caldwell v. Cohen

**Caldwell v. Cohen: Worker Wins Assault Case Against Employer** This case involved a workplace assault where an employee, Caldwell, sued her employer Cohen after he physically attacked her at work. The dispute centered on whether Cohen's actions constituted assault and battery, even though he suspected Caldwell of stealing from the business. The court ruled in favor of the employee, finding that Cohen was liable for assault and battery. The judge awarded Caldwell $98 in total damages - $48 to cover her lost wages and $50 for the pain and suffering she experienced from the attack. However, the court reduced the amount of damages because they found that Caldwell's suspected theft had provoked Cohen's actions to some degree. This ruling is important for workers because it establishes that employers cannot physically assault their employees, even when they suspect wrongdoing. While employers have the right to investigate suspected theft and take appropriate disciplinary action, they cannot resort to violence. The case shows that workers can successfully sue for assault and battery in the workplace, though suspected employee misconduct may reduce the amount of damages awarded. Workers should know they have legal protection against physical violence at work, regardless of workplace disputes.