Gold’s Gym to Pay Settlement in Harassment Lawsuit

By the Law Office of James H. Cordes & Associates

Dina Murillo, the former General Manager of Gold’s Gym in downtown Santa Barbara, has settled a sexual harassment and retaliation case that she brought against Santa Barbara Corporate Fitness (“Gold’s Gym”) and its CEO Angel Banos. SBCF and Angel Banos have agreed to pay $675,000 to settle Ms. Murillo’s claims, according to documents filed in Santa Barbara Superior Court [this week].

The lawsuit, filed in September, 2018, alleged that CEO Angel Banos repeatedly sexually harassed Gold’s Gym female members and employees, including Ms. Murillo.

Ms. Murillo brought the harassment to attention of upper management, including Angel Banos’ brother Willie Banos, the Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. In response, Gold’s Gym fired Ms. Murillo.

Ms. Murillo shared her reflections, “I brought this lawsuit on the grounds that Gold’s Gym was engaging in harassment of Gold’s Gym’s female members and staff, and because my advocacy on their behalf resulted in retaliation that included the termination of my employment as General Manager of the downtown location. My hope is that as a result of this lawsuit, Gold’s Gym will take meaningful steps to address sexual harassment and create a safe atmosphere for female members and staff.” 

Ms. Murillo was represented by James H. Cordes of James H. Cordes and Associates, a boutique law firm in Santa Barbara that represents individuals in workplace disputes. 

Mr. Cordes commented on the lawsuit, “It has been an honor to represent Ms. Murillo in this long and hard-fought matter. We are pleased that at long last Gold’s Gym and Angel Banos are accountable for their actions.” 

James H. Cordes and Associates are passionate and dedicated to workplace rights, including wage theft and employment discrimination, harassment, and wrongful termination. The firm represents clients throughout Central and Southern California on an individual, group, or class action basis.

For further information regarding the matter, visit www.jamescordes.com or call James Cordes at 805-965-6800.