An Oregon dentist accused of pressuring a former dental assistant to attend a Scientology symposium has been ordered by the state to pay the woman nearly $350,000.
On October 4, Oregon's Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI) Commissioner Brad Avakian ordered Andrew Engel, DMD, of Bend and his dental practice, AWE Dental Spa, to pay $348,000 in damages to the former employee, who quit after being ordered to attend a three-day Scientology-affiliated symposium or be fired, according to news reports.
The employee, Susan Muhleman, balked at going to the symposium because it conflicted with her religious beliefs, according to the bureau. She filed a complaint with the labor board in 2009 and has since moved to Texas, the Bend Bulletin reported.
In investigating and prosecuting the case, BOLI said it found that Dr. Engel badgered the dental hygienist for several days to convince her to attend the required training with her co-workers.
Dr. Engel has denied the allegations and will appeal the labor board's decision, according to his attorney, Michael Gordon of Portland.
"The decision from BOLI is erroneous, unsupported by the facts and contrary to Oregon law," Gordon said in a statement. "This employee was never discriminated against. Dr. Engel and his office will appeal this erroneous ruling and continue professionally treating its patients as it always has."
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