Beckley woman sues HCR ManorCare over termination

BECKLEY - A Beckley resident is suing her former employer over claims of wrongful termination and hostile work environment.

Lynda Pruett filed a lawsuit Jan. 28 in the Circuit Court of Raleigh County against HCR ManorCare Medical Services of Florida LLC, Joclara Hanshew and Kathy Keckler, citing wrongful termination and hostile work environment. HCR ManorCare operates Heartland of Beckley.

Pruett alleges HCR fired her on March 23, 2012, after she allegedly made a medication error while working on March 3, 2012.

The plaintiff states that she was not working in that particular area on March 3, 2012, and never administered medication to the patient. Upon Preutt's termination, Keckler stated that she did not have to fire the plaintiff, but it was her personal choice to do so, according to the complaint.

Preutt contends that she then went to Hanshew for assistance, but nothing was done. Prior to Pruett's termination, Keckler repeatedly screamed at and ridiculed the plaintiff and nothing was done by Hanshew to stop the conduct, according to the complaint.

Preutt is seeking an undisclosed amount in damages. She is being represented in the case by Beckley attorneys Greg A. Hewitt and Amy A. Osgood of Hewitt & Salvatore PLLC.

Circuit Court of Raleigh County Case No. 13-C-65.