Security Guard Awarded $5.5M in Harassment Lawsuit

Federal jury finds security company and VP liable for hostile work environment and retaliation

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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A federal jury in Atlanta awarded $5.5 million to a security guard who alleged that her security company's vice president of operations sexually harassed her for months, including making unwanted sexual comments, inviting her to a strip club, and exposing himself to her at the workplace. The jury found the security company and the VP liable for creating a hostile work environment, discrimination, and retaliation after the guard reported the harassment.

Why it matters

This case highlights the importance of employers properly training managers and executives on how to respond to sexual harassment complaints, as well as the significant financial and reputational consequences companies can face for failing to address harassment allegations. The verdict sends a strong message that such behavior will not be tolerated.

The details

Makita Bryant sued her employer, a security company, and the vice president of operations for sexual harassment, hostile work environment, discrimination, retaliation, and intentional infliction of emotional distress. Bryant testified that for months, the VP made unwanted sexual advances, including inappropriate comments and invitations. On one occasion, he pinned her against a wall and exposed himself. Bryant reported the incidents to the company's owner and CEO, but was then reassigned to a different location and had her hours reduced. The EEOC found reasonable cause to conclude Bryant was subjected to a hostile work environment and retaliated against for reporting the harassment.

  • On January 16, 2026, a federal jury in Atlanta awarded $5.5 million to Makita Bryant.
  • In October 2025, the defendants stipulated to liability prior to the trial.

The players

Makita Bryant

A security guard who alleged she was sexually harassed by her company's vice president of operations.

Vice President of Operations

The security company executive accused of sexually harassing Makita Bryant.

Security Company

The employer of Makita Bryant that was found liable for the hostile work environment and retaliation.

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The takeaway

This case underscores the critical need for companies to have robust policies and training in place to address sexual harassment allegations promptly and effectively, in order to avoid the significant legal and reputational consequences that can result from mishandling such complaints.