Alisha Bromfield, a 21-year-old pregnant woman, was murdered by her supervisor, Brian Cooper, at a wedding in Wisconsin. Sherry Anicich, the mother of Alisha Bromfield, filed a lawsuit against Home Depot and Grand Flower, alleging that the companies were aware of Cooper’s “psychological issues and dangerous propensities” and that he was unstable and violent. Cooper had told Alisha Bromfield she had to attend his sister’s wedding with him or he would fire her. After the wedding, Cooper took her to a hotel room and asked her to be in a relationship with him. Alisha Bromfield was killed and raped by a man who had been her supervisor and allegedly had a history of harassing and abusing female employees.
A federal appeals court rejected arguments from Home Depot and Grand Flower, reversing a lower court ruling. The 7th U. S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Chicago said Alisha Bromfield’s mother may pursue claims that Home Depot should not have employed her. Alisha Bromfield was nearly seven months pregnant when she was strangled by Cooper, who was her supervisor and a regional manager for the company. The lawsuit blames Home Depot for not firing supervisor Brian Cooper for sexual harassment before he murdered his subordinate, Alisha Bromfield, after taking her to a wedding in Door County.
The U. S. Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals has permitted a lawsuit against Home Depot to move forward, where the plaintiff alleges that Home Depot should be held vicariously liable for their supervisory employees’ intentional torts. This tragic case tests the scope of Illinois employers’ tort liability for intentional torts committed by their supervisory employees. An appeals court has restored a civil lawsuit that blames Home Depot for not firing a Plainfield supervisor with a history of sexual harassment.
| Article | Description | Site |
|---|---|---|
| Seventh Circuit Slams Home Depot in Employee Murder … | Home Depot could be liable for a manager’s murder, then rape, of a pregnant employee after the retailer failed to take action on multiple sexual harassment … | courthousenews.com |
| Home Depot Must Face Lawsuit Filed By The Family Of A … | Alisha Bromfield was killed and raped by a man who had been her supervisor and allegedly had a history of harassing and abusing female … | buzzfeednews.com |
| Home Depot may be liable for rape and murder of employee | The U.S. Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals has permitted a lawsuit against Home Depot to move forward where the plaintiff alleges that Home … | maineemploymentlawyerblog.com |
📹 Young, Pregnant And Harassed By Her Obsessive Boss Alisha Bromfield
Hi guys, today’s case is about Alisha Bromfield. She was a pregnant 21 year old woman, who was abused and killed by her boss.
Why Did Bromfield'S Mother Sue Home Depot For Wrongful Death?
Alisha Bromfield's mother, Sherry Anicich, has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Home Depot, alleging the retailer failed to protect her daughter from harassment by Brian Cooper, a supervisor who later murdered Bromfield and her unborn child. The lawsuit claims that other supervisors were aware of Cooper's inappropriate behavior towards female employees, including Bromfield, and suggests that Home Depot had a duty to address these issues.
In 2014, Anicich initiated legal action against Home Depot and two other companies (Grand Service, LLC, and Grand Flower Growers, Inc.), arguing negligence in the oversight of Cooper, who had a documented history of harassment.
Despite a lower court dismissing the wrongful death complaint, the 7th U. S. Circuit Court of Appeals has ruled that the case can proceed, allowing Anicich to pursue claims against Home Depot. Anicich is seeking unspecified punitive and compensatory damages, emphasizing the employer's liability in this tragic scenario. The case highlights critical questions about Illinois employers' responsibilities for the actions of supervisory employees.
Cooper, who was convicted of first-degree intentional homicide, remains at the center of this contentious legal battle, representing a significant moment in workplace safety and employer accountability discussions.
What Happened To Bromfield After Her Wedding?
After attending a wedding in Door County, Brian Cooper, a supervisor at Home Depot, murdered his subordinate Alisha Bromfield, who was seven months pregnant, after she rejected his proposal for a relationship. Following the murder, Cooper also raped her corpse. The following morning, he called 911 to confess. The lawsuit accuses Home Depot of negligence for failing to fire Cooper after previous incidents of sexual harassment.
Alisha was known for her cheerful, lively personality and was excited about becoming a mother. After her tragic death in 2012, her family, particularly her mother, Sherry Anicich, sought to forgive Cooper through faith.
In a separate incident, a South Carolina driver who killed a bride and injured her groom shortly after their wedding reception was sentenced to 25 years in prison. The bride had a blood-alcohol level significantly over the legal limit. Meanwhile, sprinter Noah Lyles and Jamaican athlete Junelle Bromfield announced their engagement, marking a joyful moment amid personal challenges, including Bromfield's previous loss. The couple, who dated after six years of friendship, are now focused on their future together as they prepare for the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Lyles proposed during a heavily publicized engagement celebration, showcasing their love and resilience despite adversity. Home Depot has faced legal consequences for its alleged inaction regarding the harassment that led to Alisha's murder.
Who Killed Alisha Bromfield?
Alisha Bromfield, a 21-year-old pregnant woman, was tragically murdered and raped by her supervisor, Brian Cooper, in August 2012 at a resort in Nasewaupee, Wisconsin. Cooper, who had a history of harassing female employees, confessed to the crime during a 911 call, openly revealing his identity. On August 19, 2012, Bromfield was attending Cooper's sister's wedding when the incident occurred. Following the murder, Cooper was found guilty of first-degree intentional homicide for both Alisha and her unborn daughter, receiving two consecutive life sentences without parole.
Despite attempts by Home Depot and Cooper's other employer to avoid liability for the incident, a federal appeals court ruled that Home Depot must face a lawsuit for alleged negligence that contributed to Bromfield's murder. The case underscores the dangers of workplace harassment and retention of abusive supervisors, shedding light on the tragic extremes of control and possessiveness.
The mother of Alisha, Sherry Anicich, has been advocating for support and healing through initiatives like the "Night of Hope," aimed at helping others affected by such senseless violence. The heartbreaking circumstances of Alisha's death, particularly their connection to her pregnancy, highlight the severe issues of workplace abuse that often go unaddressed.
Does Home Depot Have A History Of Sexual Harassment And Abuse?
A federal appeals court has ruled that Home Depot and a garden services vendor must face a lawsuit brought by the family of a woman murdered by her supervisor, who allegedly had a history of sexual harassment. Home Depot had concluded an investigation in August 2000, determining that the harassment allegations by associate Watson could not be substantiated, yet still offered her a position transfer. The company states it does not tolerate harassment based on any protected characteristic.
Watson's family contends that Home Depot failed to prevent the harassment and inadequately addressed her complaints. The court has revived claims that Home Depot neglected to act against a supervisor known for harassing subordinates, with court filings indicating a pattern of abuse.
Additionally, a lawsuit filed by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) describes a hostile work environment in Home Depot's Colorado stores, detailing instances of gender, race, and national origin-based harassment affecting female employees. Despite claims of harassment being reported, some employees noted that male associates faced minimal repercussions for inappropriate behavior. In light of allegations including severe incidents, such as the tragic murder connected to workplace harassment, advocates criticize Home Depot’s handling of these matters, emphasizing the need for stringent adherence to anti-harassment policies. The case underscores ongoing concerns regarding workplace safety and the effectiveness of corporate compliance measures against harassment.
What Happened To Bromfield'S Mother?
Junelle Bromfield's mother filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Home Depot, claiming the retailer failed to protect her from harassment linked to her daughter's tragic death. Junelle, who recently secured her place on the senior Jamaican team, has faced immense grief, having lost both her mother and brothers in recent years. With support from fellow sprinter Noah Lyles, who suggested therapy, she has been navigating her losses through self-care and therapy.
Junelle's mother, diagnosed with stage 4 cervical cancer in January 2021, passed away shortly before the Tokyo Olympics, impacting her training. Additionally, Amanda Brumfield, convicted in the 2008 death of a toddler, was released from prison after maintaining her innocence. The Bromfield family has a history of tragedy, including the harrowing case of Alisha Bromfield, who was murdered in 2012 while pregnant.
Alisha's mother began 'Nights of Hope' to aid others in healing. Despite her fame, Junelle has kept much of her family life private, yet acknowledged her struggles with grief after losing her mother, Sandra Farquharson.
📹 episode 8: Alisha Bromfield
I remember this case. What a creep. I had completely forgotten about it, but coincidentally,my youngest daughter just began working at Home Depot. I sure hope they have revamped their policies since this incident. The company should have criminal responsibility for ignoring Alisha’s complaints. My daughter, however is not the type to put up with any B.S. The situation wouldn’t have gotten that far.
I am absolutely not victim shaming, she was so young when she started. However reports should go to upper management if they do not respond correctly you go to HR and if nothing is done then you go to the police. Nobody EVER has the right to make you uncomfortable at work period. I don’t understand why her mother didn’t file charges when she was still a minor. As a mother I would have lost my shit on that whole company Two lives lost in what could have been prevented. So sad. RIP
Poor girl. So beautiful and so young. God rest her soul and that of her unborn child. This reminds me of a case heard close to where I live. Riley Whitelaw in Colorado. She was actually murdered at the place of employment. It hurt my soul to read about what happened to her. She was only 17. I hope her family sues the crap out of Walgreens. Another management that did NOTHING for the young girl. Things have to change. Seriously. But great storytelling as always, Zara. I know this article is older but i will say it anyway. 🙂
BAAABE I’m so so so happy to see you thrive like this! I know you’ve put in SO much work over the past year, being pregnant AND working as a lawyer, so it’s so awesome and so well-deserved to see your website growing so fast 🙂 Also it motivates me to start uploading again, I’ve been MIA for months procrastinating in a hole, but it’s time to come out now 🙂 so indirectly thank you for motivating me! Hope all is well at your home with the baby and your family❤️ xx
I agree that home depot owed her a duty of care that they failed to provide. However if she was my daughter I would have told her to quit. No matter how poor we were. We would find a way to make sure her and the baby had everything they need. Even just the stress of a working working environment like that is too much! No job is worth that. Such a tragic case.
She should’ve of gathered up evidence, quit her job and then sued Home Depot for not firing that predator who was abusing his power of authority. He was such a loser and he bullied the poor girl . I wish she never went anywhere with that loser . I agree with you since she was alone and he was drinking and acting weird maybe she could’ve of pretended to be his friend till she got back home .
Just watched this story on discovery +, I was so upset perusal it because why didn’t any family or friends tell Her to quit or report him to the corporate offices?? I understand the concern with potentially losing a job and benefits but if that was my friend or my daughter I would have been raising hell with the corporate offices!! I’m so lost as to why no one said anything
I can’t even begin to express my frustration with this case. It pisses me off on so many levels. I have a big mouth and probably would have told that guy where to go for even asking me to go somewhere with him. But I agree with you, when you are alone with someone like that, I wouldn’t make him more angry. I would wait until I was home, and in a safer more public environment.
I agree with you as well-that if you’re in an isolated situation with someone that has the potential to escalate in any kind of dangerous way you should say whatever you can to avoid that happening however when I was 21 my temper/NEED to say EXACTLY what I was feeling often overpowered that sensibility, so I can see both perspectives.
I wasn’t pregnant but I was on a trip with a friend and landlord, and he tried to rape and kill me. I’m so amazed I am still alive from being in bad situations with bad men. That poor woman and her baby! It’s so horrible! I can’t believe he got a hung jury! Voluntary intoxication?! What?! Thank Goddess they finally got him.
I had a boss like this and I let him fire me. Better unemployment than being pressured into sex by a weirdo abusing his power. This story is so heartbreaking. That man should have been fired right away especially since he’d rubbed himself in indecently against an employee. He was already showing aggressive behavior and inability to accept “no”. This poor girl deserved better, so much better than this. Can’t stand pushy men like this Brian guy. They’re dangerous.
So pitiful.. and sometimes you have to say what ever keeps them calm. My husband tried to kill me and I had to beg for my life and tell him that I loved him and I wasn’t going to leave. It was so hard. He ruptured my esophagus trying to strangle me. Needless to say, I went to police when he went to work.
I am so filled with rage and disgust with this case. It breaks my heart too bc these psychopaths always target younger women; I remember being a people pleaser and being accommodating and polite and did whatever people asked even if if was unreasonable when i was in my 20s, just bc that’s the way you are when you’re younger. She never got to grow into a 30 something who would tell this selfish, unhinged loser to fuck off the FIRST time he did something inappropriate
I can tell you from experience that it is possible for someone drinking to have that much strength. My ex drank all the time. He was mentally cruel when he just drank beer. When he drank something stronger, he was physical. One night, he had grabbed me around the neck and lifted me off the floor. I can also tell you that he remembered the whole thing. I’m just glad that I got my baby and I out of there before fists started flying. Unfortunately, most don’t. I’m glad that her family were able to make a positive out of a horrible situation.
I’ve been in several jobs in my lifetime where I reported to male supervisors, (mainly in predominantly male jobs) ie: heavy machinery, paramedic, truck driver, etc… and I’ve been through treatment that many male employees would never have to put up with. It happens more often than a lot of people realize. It’s a horribly tough situation to be in… along with trying your best to be a good employee and keep your job… I’ll just never understand what goes on inside some men’s heads that they think it’s okay to treat women that way.
That is so crazy to hear, because here in Brazil the law really protect the employees. Even if you have an accident like a car crash or something even minimal on your way to work, it is employer responsibility to provide care. The whole period of commuting to work, lunch break, coffee break and all the way back home if anything happens to you, your employer is responsible. This rules are even stronger if whatever happens while you are in your working hours. Also, here you don’t need a lawyer to sue your employer in case of harassment and if the employer does not fulfill its obligations according the work contract, you can “fire” your employer and they have to pay all your rights such as a 13• wage, the days you worked prior the event, your vacation salary, your social insurance and a fee for breaking the contract. It is insane to think what this girl endured and that the company did not feel like they had any responsibility
I’ve never been that drunk, but I’ve known plenty of people who have been. “Mean” drunks are the worst, and the people I know who have serious drinking problems have no memory of the incident. However, he seems to have remembered everything. So, that just doesn’t work. I have never heard of voluntary intoxication as a formal defense. That’s just crazy. I love Home Depot, and it’s really disappointing to hear about their responsibility in this, and the way they handled the lawsuit. I hope her family was well compensated, even though no amount would lessen their loss.
If I was her mom I would sue the living shit out of Home Depot!!!!!! And if I was her I’d get all the evidence I need and sue the shit out of the company for not doing anything about it!! I am not someone who likes when people sue I hate it to be honest! BUT this situation called for her suing the company! By the way I do not believe he told her to come with me or you’re fired I believe she felt bad for him and he begged her. Because despite the company being garbage for letting him get away with shit, he can’t put the reason for firing her is because she didn’t go with him 🙄🙄. I think that part is not true at all.
I agree with you 100%. It was very naive for Alisha to stay in the same bedroom as this man who was obviously obsessed with her. I mean he is definitely a psycho but when we do things to this extreme I think we have to also be somewhat held responsible. I remember even when I was that age & much younger I would have already known better than to put myself in such obvious danger.
ᵂᴼᵂ sOo too sad. What a 𝕭𝖊𝖆𝖚𝖙𝖎𝖋𝖚𝖑 young woman and unborn daughter…. It’s absolutely tragic. And, disgusting. Shame on HOME DEPOT’s failure in their management!!! it’s crAzy because i had several situations (in my younger life) in which i was inappropriately treated by bosses and owners of companies…. Pressure to date, unwanted touching, et cetera. But i always just left the job.
Okay so he was a horrible person WITHOUT alcohol but I have to say.. on 12/14/19 (the last time I ever drank) I got BLACKOUT drunk and misplaced an entire 5.5 hours during which I ended up in the middle of a busy street, picked up and taken home by police, STABBED my ex in a fit of emotional damage and he had to tackle me to disarm me, busting out 3 of my front teeth.. I remember NONE of it. Not a bit.. 3 years later, still don’t remember.. I woke up at 2:30am handcuffed to a hospital bed with broken teeth and had NO IDEA what happened. The cops and my ex had to tell me what happened.. I’m not even a violent person at all and everyone including my ex which I had never even fought with before, we’re soooo confused. He is as like “I just don’t understand” and neither did I.. I got the rehabilitation and therapy I needed and have not drank since that night. He is totally okay, by the sheer grace of god and he’s happy I got the help I needed. We stayed together for a while but ultimately grew apart.. we’re still very good friends and I spoke to him earlier today, even.. So all this is to say that you can 100% black out even the most traumatic events while intoxicated. I guess you don’t really understand unless you’ve been there but I STABBED someone and my teeth were BUSTED OUT of my mouth on the asphalt and I remember none of it, at all. I woke up saying “where’s his name what happened!?” And the cop even looked so confused.
This case is so infuriating. Whenever I hear about I’m just like where tf was her family? And what was their dynamic? Why send her into that situation day after day knowing what that creep was doing to her. That heavily pregnant, she needed to quit and her fam should’ve stepped up to help her. Poor Alicia and baby. They did not deserve that. I wish she would’ve asked upper management for a transfer to different store at least 🥺 May they RIP 🙏🏾💕
I watch Bailey, saw a lot, heard a lot, but this man is such a monster . I am a mother i can not even imagine, i am a single mother and my manager helped me so much during my work being pregnant, God Bless him. He was covering my doctor appointments, had so much support to earn my so much needed money being single. Every mother will beg for her baby’s life, baby that was almost full term . This baby never got to see the light. The devil is small compared with this monster .
Ladies never end a relationship in person it can be a dangerous time when you are leaving someone Texts and phone calls are the way to go. Alisha should have agreed to go to the movies with her creepy boss and thereafter when they were not in close physical proximity said she was done. At age 21 she wasn’t worldly wise and didn’t know what to do. I feel so bad for her family. RIP Alisha and sweet baby girl.
I don’t know though I just watched a case where a doctor prescribed this for a little kids so many antidepressant that he was flipping out and like seeing stuff and like ended up killing people over it so I believe an involuntary intoxication because that little 12 year old boy was just taking with his doctor prescribed to him and he didn’t know any better
Poor girl everybody knows that once a company finds out that you’re pregnant they don’t want to hire you because they know they’re going to have to be without you for a few months and they’re going to have to pay you while you’re out on maternity leave and it must be hard on her to have to be stuck there especially after telling management now this falls on Management’s back and it would have been so good sued the company because they allow this Behavior to continue instead of firing his ass like they should have
The consideration of diminished responsibility per intoxication might be due to the women feeling as if she was responsible for the bad decisions which put her in the situation…..not saying I agree at all….but it is not a secret that rape victims often stay quiet bc of the fear of having to withstand the trauma of victim blaming, essentially what I’m asserting might have come into the first jury’s consideration.
At least he confessed…sort of…but at least he called the police. That’s the only ‘good’ thing I can say about that sick-twist!!! He should have been charged with TWO MURDERS!!! Surely there are clever enough lawyers to writs laws that don’t risk abortion rights…in countries where women still have autonomy over their own bodies!! 🤬
Wow! You look fantastic.❤ Congratulations.🎊🎈🎉🥹 I totally agree with you that she should have gone along with the game he was playing until she got home. Then I would get a restraining order against him, AND, make sure she’s NEVER ALONE until she can have her baby, and possibly move . She could get a P. O. Box so he could not find her. I’m sure she didn’t think in her wildest dreams that he would kill her in that hotel room.😢 RIP ALISHA🙏🌹🕊️ AND BABY🧸** BTW, 3rd degree manslaughter?!! BIG FAT NO!!😮😤 Glad he was punished appropriately. Good for her momma!❤ I a wonder if the momma got any monetary compensation from Home Depot?! I think they should. $