Settlement negotiations have broken down between the Architect of the Capitol and a custodial worker who is suing the office for retaliating against her because she previously filed a sexual harassment claim, according to a Monday court filing.

“The parties attempted to try and resolve this matter; however, the settlement negations were unsuccessful,” according to a status report filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. “At this time, the parties do not believe that further settlement negotiations will result in settlement of this case.”

Priscilla Rucker filed suit in August alleging that she was suspended without pay, denied leave for an on-the-job injury, subjected to harassing conduct by supervisors, falsely accused of being absent from work without official leave, threatened with firing, falsely accused of doctoring her time sheet and had her work more strictly scrutinized, according to court documents.

The matter was heard before an AOC mediator but was not resolved, according to court documents.

The plaintiff’s attorney was not immediately available for comment.
Rucker, who has worked for AOC for 19 years, claims her supervisors are retaliating against her because she filed a separate suit in May 2008 alleging that a co-worker had sexually harassed her.

AOC spokeswoman Eva Malecki said the agency does not comment on personnel issues.