Geise v. Phoenix Co. of Chicago, Inc.

Melody Geise brought this common law tort action in the circuit court of Du Page County to recover damages from the Phoenix Company of Chicago, Inc. (Phoenix), and the company’s national sales manager, William Walthall. The basis for her claim was that Walthall had harassed her sexually, then caused her to be fired from her job as a sales representative for Phoenix when she reported his misconduct to the company.

Phoenix did not deny that Walthall was guilty of improper conduct, but claimed that it was not legally responsible for his actions. Although the circuit court agreed and dismissed the…