People go to great lengths to support their favorite sports teams. Some people have lost their jobs because of this.
A Los Angeles Dodgers fan claims he was fired after he called in sick for work and was spotted at the team’s World Series victory parade.
The fan, who has not been identified, shared his story on social media, saying he was fired by his employer for misconduct.
KTLA legal expert Alison Tristle said the firings hold important lessons for people who try to sneak away for truancy.
“If you’re going to play hooky, don’t do it with cameras and videos everywhere,” Tristle said on KTLA 5 Off the Clock. “He’s going to have a very hard time justifying why he called in sick.”
California is an open employment state, so employers can generally fire workers without cause. Tristle noted that employees must have a valid medical reason to take sick leave.
“There must be a valid medical reason to do so, and employees essentially receive one hour of sick leave for every 30 hours worked, but this accrues after the first 90 days of employment. ,” Tristle explained.
Phan’s lawsuit was further complicated when Phan’s employer reportedly had to close its store due to a staff shortage on the day of the parade.
Tristle said fans could argue that a mental health day is needed, but they would need to provide evidence that they are unable to work due to a mental health issue.
Fans may be able to sue, but Tristle expressed skepticism about the chances of success given the evidence against him.
“Anybody can sue. The question is, will he actually win? And you know, the videos of him cheering and singing are not going to help him, but they’re not going to help him in the slightest.” No,” she said.
Most of those supporting the Ferris Bueller-like escape are supporting the currently unemployed fan, and some are encouraging the Dodgers to find him a job with the organization.
