A former employee at a Comcast retail location in Plainville, Connecticut, has filed a lawsuit against the company, alleging that a store manager subjected staff to humiliating and physically degrading treatment as a misguided motivational tactic. The lawsuit, filed in Connecticut state court earlier this month, claims that store manager Sally Fuentes Peterson ordered monthly “punishments” involving the lowest-performing sales consultant being tied to a chair and having a cream pie smashed in their face.

David Figueroa, who worked at the store and resigned from his position, is seeking more than $15,000 in damages. According to the complaint, Peterson devised the practice as a means to pressure employees into meeting sales targets and securing positive customer survey feedback. The suit describes the incidents as “assaults” and states that the forced pie-throwing took place in a “back office” at the store, with the highest-ranking salesperson designated to carry out the act.

Figueroa alleges that the company’s policy violated state workplace protections and that such a practice was not disclosed to him upon hiring in February. He is pursuing claims of constructive discharge and negligence against Comcast, arguing that the hostile and demeaning environment compelled him to leave his job.

Comcast has denied the allegations contained in the lawsuit, and no further comment was provided.

The suit sheds light on unusual and allegedly abusive motivational methods purportedly employed within a retail setting, highlighting potential issues of workplace safety and employee dignity. The case is ongoing.