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Bikini Baristas in Seattle Preliminarily Awarded $1.8M in Pay Violations, Attorneys Say
A judge found Tagle owed double damages after workers said he forced wage and tip rebates and blocked baristas from outside shifts.
- King County Superior Court Judge Cindi Port ordered Beehive Espresso owner Alan Tagle to pay over $1.85 million to 70 former baristas last month, addressing widespread wage theft across his Western Washington coffee stands.
- Tagle enforced confusing pay practices and tip theft to exploit workers, while also prohibiting employees from working at other stands because it 'prevents me from having the control I need over them.'
- The court found Tagle 'accepted the benefit of baristas' work without paying for it,' awarding double damages. Working Washington Rights Center and Schroeter Goldmark & Bender represented the plaintiffs, overcoming poor record-keeping barriers.
- Named plaintiff Eilish Hoffman said the victory proves 'there is power in unity,' overcoming workplace isolation. Mykie, another former worker, noted the ruling signals a positive shift in attitudes toward workplace rights.
- Janae Choquette, a staff attorney with Working Washington Rights Center, said the organization hopes this victory 'inspires other workers to fight together' for their rights. The ruling establishes accountability for industry bosses challenging systemic mistreatment.
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The DerrickReposted by 
The Seattle Times
The Seattle TimesGroup of bikini baristas win nearly $2M in legal battle
Former bikini baristas at five coffee stands in the Puget Sound region say they were paid below minimum wage and forced to turn over earnings to keep up with strict sales standards. Now, a judge has awarded them more than…
·Oil City, United States
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King5 NewsReposted by 
BizToc
BizTocBikini baristas preliminarily awarded $1.8M in pay violations, attorneys say
The defendant operated five bikini barista stands in the Puget Sound area, most under the name “Beehive Espresso,” according to groups representing the employees.
·Seattle, United States
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Coverage Details
Total News Sources14
Leaning Left2Leaning Right0Center11Last UpdatedBias Distribution85% Center
Bias Distribution
- 85% of the sources are Center
85% Center
15%
C 85%
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