DISABILITY LAW: Man Sues City for Violation of Access Laws for Disabled

June 16, 2010

Los Angeles – A 47-year old man has filed a lawsuit against the city and the Los Angeles Angel of Anaheim for alleged violation of federal and state laws governing access for the disabled.

J. Paul Charlebois, who uses a wheelchair, said employees made him move to another part of the stadium during the Yankees game on July 2009. There were only two spots for the disabled in the section and they were already taken.

Charlebois, who watched the game with a companion, said he tried to ask for some kind of accommodation but the usher only suggested that he will be carried to a seat, which he refused. He said they were moved to a terrace-level seat where the view was not good and there were no food and waiter amenities.

Charlebois said he filed the lawsuit not to seek financial damages but to compel the Angels to provide more seats for the disabled and for its staff to undergo sensitivity training.

Charlebois was disabled in a car accident about 30 years ago.