Man says he was fired because he's deaf

HUNTINGTON – A man has filed suit against his former employer, alleging he lost his job because he was deaf.

Jackie Hewlett alleges he was working for defendant General Rentals when he was given a warning for loading a truck improperly on July 19, 2013. In his warning, Hewlett learned he would be placed on probation, according to the complaint filed Aug. 26 in Cabell Circuit Court.

When he was presented with the warning, Hewlett, who is deaf, complained to his supervisor about not being promoted, the suit states.

"It was then that he was advised that he could not be promoted because he could not communicate," the complaint says. "Then the plaintiff was informed that he was being terminated."

On July 19, 2013, Hewlett alleges he was fired due to his disability in violation of the Human Rights Act.

Because of his termination, Hewlett alleges he lost pay, experienced emotional pain and suffering, endured mental anguish and lost his enjoyment of life. He also experienced emotional pain and suffering and lost his enjoyment of life, the suit states.

In his complaint, Hewlett is seeking compensatory damages, plus attorney fees and costs.

He will be represented by Amy C. Crossan of Bouchillon, Crossan and Colburn in Huntington.

Circuit Judge Christopher D. Chiles has been assigned to the case.

Cabell Circuit Court case number 14-C-586