Phillips, who worked for Starbucks for about 13 years and managed a region of stores in the area, was fired after the the arrest of two Black men at a Philadelphia Starbucks in April 2018.
The New Jersey jury returned a verdict of $25.6 million, including $25 million for punitive damages and $600,000 in compensatory damages, according to Console Mattiacci Law, which represents Phillips.
The jury ruled unanimously after a six day trial, the lawyers said, noting that Phillips will also be seeking back and front pay.
Starbucks said it is disappointed in the decision and is evaluating its next steps, spokesperson Jaci Anderson told CNN.
A jury found in favor of a former regional director who accused the company of racial discrimination.
Persons:
Shannon Phillips, White, Phillips, Jaci Anderson, Kena Betancur, “, ” Phillips, Kevin Johnson, —, Laura Ly, Zenebou Sylla
Organizations:
New, New York CNN, Starbucks, Philadelphia Starbucks, The New, Mattiacci, CNN, City, Getty, Partner Resources
Locations:
New York, Philadelphia, The, The New Jersey, City of Philadelphia, AFP