A former high-ranking official at the Port of Seattle has launched a devastating discrimination lawsuit against his previous employer, alleging he was made redundant while undergoing treatment for terminal cancer.
Chris Linhardt, 58, served as the Maritime Operations Manager for the publicly-owned port authority. He claims the organisation failed to provide reasonable accommodations for his stage four prostate cancer diagnosis before ultimately eliminating his position.
The legal filing, obtained by DailyMail.com, presents a stark account of a dedicated employee allegedly cast aside during his most vulnerable period. Linhardt had worked for the port for over six years, overseeing critical maritime security and operations.
A Battle on Two Fronts
Linhardt's world shifted dramatically in August 2022 when he received his life-altering diagnosis. He immediately began an aggressive treatment regimen, including chemotherapy.
Despite the gruelling medical procedures, Linhardt asserts he continued to perform his duties to a high standard, often working remotely from his hospital bed. He formally requested accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), including a modified schedule and continued remote work capability.
According to the lawsuit, the Port's response was not one of support but of termination. Just months after his diagnosis, in November 2022, he was informed his role was being eliminated due to a departmental reorganisation.
Allegations of Bad Faith
The legal claim suggests the reorganisation was a pretext for discrimination. It points to the fact that many of Linhardt's core responsibilities were simply redistributed to other employees rather than being made redundant.
'The Port of Seattle has a legal and moral duty to support its employees, not discard them when they become ill,' Linhardt stated through his legal representation. 'I gave my all to that job, only to be dismissed when I needed understanding the most.'
The lawsuit seeks unspecified damages for emotional distress, lost wages, and violations of state and federal disability laws.
The Port's Position
When approached for comment, a spokesperson for the Port of Seattle stated, 'We do not comment on pending litigation. The Port is committed to providing an inclusive environment and complies with all applicable employment laws.'
The case shines an uncomfortable light on the treatment of seriously ill employees in the workplace and is set to be a closely watched test of disability rights legislation in Washington state.
