Hey again y'all. A lot of you were interested in an update, and while it's not over yet, there's a bit going on. Keeping it as detailed as possible so that anyone who thinks this could be the path they need to deal with a crap boss knows what to expect. For simplicity: MP: my partner; BB: big boss; DD: DOL dude.
9/16/22
-inital call with DOL. Lady who picked up instantly knew the complaint when MP said “my boss has me labeled as salary”. She sounded really giddy after her shock MP put up with it for 2 years, knowing just how much BB had f'd up. MP asked not to be named to avoid retaliation. Confirmed he was not salary by asking for the last 2 pay stubs, which showed different amounts, took down his info and comoany into. Said they'll be in contact
10/5/22
– DOL called. DD assigned to MP's case. Provided more detailed info as well as any documents on MPs end. Talked about job sites, and ways to contact BB. DD not certain if MP is non exempt due to supervisor starus, but will look into it. DD believed BB to be knowledgeable about labor laws. Still took it as a good sign that DOL is taking it seriously.
10/13/2022
-Another supervisor sent screenshots of a text chain between the BB and coworker asking how to tell if someone filed a complaint and who did it. Voicemail from DD about how notice was served today. Coworker denied knowing who filed, claiming it to just be nonspecific rumors. Text chain also incriminated BB saying that he will cap everyones hours at 36/w in direct response to notice. Immediately sent to DD.
10/20/2022
-update from DD. He went to the big site and talked with other staff who confirmed what MP complained about. BB showed up on site, presumably to intimidate DD, which did not work. Straight up said “your boss is an idiot. You guys are gonna get a lot of money.” BB showed he was not as smart as he liked to think. DD hadnt gone through all paperwork yet, as they go back 5 years of records, but in one week, one person was owed 300 in overtime, which gets doubled as BB makes over 500k. BB admitted no one got paid during a weather incident that shut everything down, which quickly demonstrated not salary. DD found MP is not exempt, due to not actually having supervisor powers as hiring, firing, and discipline all has to run through BB. Other coworkers also sent DD emails about conduct violations. DD said that if BB tries to fight it, everyone will recieve copies of a form thats basically a right to sue that would be backed by DOL's investigation.
10/31/2022
-BB fired MP for “insubordination”. 2 back to back write ups (one for “causing problems” when MP asked someone on site for clarification after BB said to only email everyone with him CCd, and one for a 6+month old email). MP got many calls from contractors on that site he worked with, especially night shift supervisor whom MP had been holding back from releasing hell on BB. Told him to “unleash the dogs” and i could hear the evil grin through the phone. Informed DD about the termination and was told it wouldnt affect the case. DD only 1/4 through MP's file, and is already owed 20k base. DD had talked to his boss about the case, mentioned lack of lawyer because of money issues, and boss said that they'd be willing to help. DD said he'd filed for straight payment, but due to how much BB would end up owing for everyone, it may come down to a lump sum that would be divided out.
My partner already has a new job, that is much more relaxed. Took a hit in hourly pay and hours, but we're making it work. Boss has yet to talk to me face to face, despite dropping things off for me, or picking things up. Things are in motion and aren't looking at stopping. Hopefully this wraps up shortly and not 10 years down the road.