HoneyBaked Ham manager accused of treating employee like piece of meat in EEOC complaint

HoneyBaked Ham may specialize in succulent cuts of meat, but that doesn't mean employees are supposed to be treated like another item on the menu. That's among the accusations in a complaint from the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, which alleges incidents of sexual harassment at the company's Colorado stores...

By Michael Roberts

October 4, 2011

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HoneyBaked Ham may specialize in succulent cuts of meat, but that doesn't mean employees are supposed to be treated like another item on the menu. That's among the accusations in a complaint from the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, which alleges incidents of sexual harassment at the company's Colorado stores.

The focus of the EEOC lawsuit is reportedly one James Jackman, a regional manager for the company. The complaint contends that Wendy Cabrera, a manager at the HoneyBaked Ham outlet in Highlands Ranch, and other women were targeted by the man, who specialized in sexual comments and inappropriate touching.

Cabrera didn't take this sort of behavior laying down. Instead, she complained to higher-ups. Her reward? She was criticized for making poor hires and then sacked in May 2010.

The EEOC suit, which seeks damages and back pay for Cabrera, also accuses the company of punishing or firing other women for griping about such treatment.

In response to these allegations, HoneyBaked Ham issued a statement stressing that it doesn't tolerate sexual harassment and insisting that it fully reviewed and took action in the assorted cases last year. "It is the policy of The HoneyBaked Ham Co. that all associates should be able to enjoy a work atmosphere free from all forms of discrimination, including harassment," the statement maintains.

If the EEOC determines otherwise, its judgment won't leave a good taste.

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Michael Roberts began his career with Westword in 1990 as music editor. In 1999, he took on a new role, full-time media reporter, as author of a column called The Message. In 2008, he became the lead writer for Westword's news blog, The Latest Word, a position he held until January 2023. Michael continues to freelance for Westword, covering everything from business to sports and the media; he also contributes to Jazziz, a national music magazine. He holds a bachelor's degree from what is now Colorado Mesa University and master's degrees from the University of California, Los Angeles, and Northwestern University.

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