A former employee of the WingHouse Bar & Grill in Ocala has filed a federal civil rights lawsuit against the restaurant, alleging she was fired from her job after she notified her managers of her pregnancy.
Alyssa Hamm filed the complaint on Friday, May 1, in the Fifth Judicial Circuit Court of Marion County against Elite Food Management, Inc., doing business as WingHouse in Ocala.
Hamm worked as a bartender and server at the Ocala restaurant from April 2022 until her termination on October 12, 2023, according to the complaint.
The WingHouse in Ocala is located at 2145 E Silver Springs Boulevard.
In June 2023, Hamm claims she notified management of her pregnancy. She alleges that, following this announcement, the restaurant began a pattern of intentional discrimination and abusive treatment.
Specifically, Hamm claims her work performance was unfairly scrutinized, her hours were reduced, and she was given less favorable assignments and shifts.
The lawsuit further asserts that when Hamm complained about the discriminatory behavior, the restaurant retaliated by subjecting her to harsher work standards and eventually firing her.
The complaint argues that these actions were performed with “malice or with reckless indifference” to Hamm’s protected civil rights.
Hamm is seeking damages in excess of $50,000, which is the jurisdictional limit to qualify for circuit court. The alleged damages include back pay, front pay, and compensation for emotional pain, suffering, and mental anguish.
The lawsuit followed a “Notice of Right to Sue” issued by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) in February 2026. A jury trial has been requested.