A former Starbucks supervisor from Bridgeport files a lawsuit against the company, alleging it failed to protect him from a customer.

Dayshawn Rodriguez, 30, says the customer repeatedly harassed him, forcing him to endure both physical abuse and racial slurs.

He says the incident happened in 2020 at the downtown Westport location. Rodriquez tells News 12 that Starbucks has asked the court to dismiss his lawsuit and force him into arbitration.

He says he never agreed to arbitration.

Starbucks hasn't commented on the lawsuit, but said in the past, "None of our partners should feel harassed while in our stores and we take these matters seriously. Our stores are a place of community, where everyone is welcome, provided they contribute to a positive environment and an enjoyable experience."