Ex-manager of yachts files wrongful termination suit

A former manager of luxury yachts for patrons of the Best Sunshine Casino has filed a wrongful termination lawsuit before the Superior Court against the company for allegedly terminating his contract last year after he allegedly complained of illegal acts.

Lawrence Williams, through counsel William M. Fitzgerald, is suing Phoenix Services Inc. for wrongful termination in violation of public policy and breach of contract.

Williams asked the court to hold Phoenix liable to pay him unspecified damages. He demanded a jury trial.

The suit is not against Imperial Pacific International (CNMI) LLC, which operates the Best Sunshine Casino. In a statement yesterday, IPI said its attorneys have advised that since the company is not a party to the lawsuit, it would be improper and inappropriate to comment upon specific allegations in the litigation.

IPI said it expects both its employees and other businesses associated with IPI, including affiliates, consultants, professionals, vendors, and their employees to conduct themselves lawfully and comply with local and federal laws.

Saipan Tribune was still trying to get comments from Phoenix Services as of press time.

According to Fitzgerald in the complaint, Phoenix, whose sole shareholder is Pui Seng Cheong, recruited Williams in 2016 to manage luxury yachts that were being operated on behalf of IPI.

Phoenix described its business activities in its 2016 corporation report as business services and operates luxury vessels that are provided to patrons of the Best Sunshine Casino as living accommodations and for recreational purposes.

Fitzgerald said that, while working for Phoenix, Williams observed that the company was violating numerous maritime and federal laws and regulations.

The alleged violations include B-1 visa regulations, manning regulations, standards requiring vessel over 200 tons to go to sea during typhoons, ignoring safety inspection requirements, and regulations covering commercial charters within U.S. waters.

Fitzgerald said that Williams brought these matters to the attention of the Phoenix management and demanded that they be stopped and corrected.

Phoenix terminated Williams’ employment last July 26. Fitzgerald said that when Williams asked why he was being terminated, he was told he seemed to be unhappy working for the company.

After that, Phoenix hired a non-U.S. citizen to replace Williams, Fitzgerald said.