Panda Express allegedly kept accused harasser, fired women who complained

Contreras says she raised the issue with management four to five times over roughly seven months — flagging the behavior to an assistant manager, a general manager, and a higher-level area operations leader. One manager assured her an investigation would be launched. To Contreras’s knowledge, according to the lawsuit, none ever was. 

Silverio was eventually moved to another location in or around mid-April 2025, but only after he allegedly pulled another female employee close to him without her consent. The lawsuit states this was reportedly his third transfer linked to sexual harassment complaints. A shift leader allegedly told Contreras he was kept on because he was considered one of the best and fastest cooks. 

Then came the terminations. On or about May 14, 2025, Contreras was let go — the stated reason, according to the lawsuit, was giving away a free cup. That same day, another female employee who had also reported Silverio was fired for giving food to her sister. The lawsuit states neither woman had any serious disciplinary history. Silverio, who had drawn multiple sexual harassment complaints, was never disciplined — only transferred. 

Contreras is suing under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, alleging sex-based discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. She is seeking back pay, front pay, and compensatory and punitive damages. 

Panda Express has not responded to the lawsuit, and no determination has been made on the merits of the claims.