Full Breakdown
Allegations of Sexual Assault at Soho House Los Angeles
3/1/2026, 3:51:38 AM
Overview of the Lawsuit
A civil lawsuit has been filed against Soho House, a private members' club, by a former bartender identified as Jane Doe, who alleges that her supervisor, Leonard Marcelo Vichique Maya, drugged and raped her following a work-related event. The complaint was submitted to the Los Angeles Superior Court, detailing a series of alleged sexual harassment incidents that began shortly after Doe started her employment at the club's restaurant, Berenjak, in September 2025.
Allegations and Events
According to the lawsuit, Doe experienced repeated sexual advances and unwanted physical contact from Vichique Maya, including inappropriate comments about her appearance and propositions for a personal relationship. After reporting these incidents to two male supervisors, including the floor manager and food and beverage director, Doe claims no corrective action was taken. The situation escalated after a team-bonding event on September 13, where she became disoriented after consuming alcohol and later woke up naked in Vichique Maya's apartment, allegedly having been raped.
Following the incident, Doe reported the assault to her floor manager, who allegedly acknowledged Vichique Maya's predatory behavior. Despite her reports, Doe was scheduled to work shifts with Vichique Maya, leading her to file a formal complaint with Soho House's human resources in December. She was assured of an investigation, but during this process, she was placed on indefinite leave while Vichique Maya continued to work. Ultimately, the company concluded that her allegations were "uncorroborated," and no disciplinary action was taken against Vichique Maya.
Company Response and Legal Proceedings
In response to the allegations, a spokesperson for Soho House stated that the company takes such claims seriously and initiated an internal investigation, although specific details about the actions taken were not disclosed. The Los Angeles Police Department has confirmed that it is conducting a criminal investigation into the matter.
Doe is seeking a jury trial in her civil lawsuit, which will proceed in Los Angeles Superior Court. The case has drawn attention to workplace sexual violence and the responsibilities of employers to address such allegations effectively.
Criticism of Corporate Conduct
Critics have highlighted the alleged indifference of Soho House management towards Doe's complaints. Her attorney, Nick Yasman, described the situation as a severe instance of corporate negligence regarding workplace sexual violence. The lawsuit raises broader questions about the adequacy of workplace protections and the responsibilities of employers in preventing and addressing harassment.
What's Next
The civil lawsuit is set to move forward in court, while the LAPD's criminal investigation continues. The outcome of both proceedings will be closely monitored as they unfold, with implications for workplace policies and accountability in the hospitality industry.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This is as egregious an instance of callous corporate indifference to workplace sexual violence that anyone can experience,” — Nick Yasman, Attorney
- “I have a restaurant to run; I can’t have it blow up on me.” — General Manager (paraphrased)
- “ She said her general manager “confirmed” that he “appeared to be preying” on her during the work event, telling her that “These things happen between coworkers.” — General Manager (paraphrased)
