McCune Law Group (MLG) Files Civil Lawsuit

Lawsuit Alleges Discriminatory Treatment and Harassment

Watch the Press Conference Here

A press conference will be held by McCune Law Group (MLG) providing the details of a civil lawsuit filed on behalf of Sonja Pang, alleging discriminatory treatment and harassment at the hands of County Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr. According to the complaint filed, Ms. Pang not only suffered from this treatment herself, but also saw its impact on others.

MLG attorney Joseph L. Richardson will present the basis of the firm’s claims against San Bernardino County Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr. with Ms. Pang.

Allegations of Discrimination and Harassment

Ms. Pang worked under Mr. Baca from late 2020 until her firing on February 21, 2025. She became acting Chief of Staff in September of 2022. From the outset, Mr. Baca abused his power over Ms. Pang, acknowledging she was underpaid compared to male predecessors and promising a raise—contingent upon her loyalty. But that loyalty, the complaint alleges, meant standing quietly by while Mr. Baca insulted and belittled staffers, berated and threatened Ms. Pang, and forced employees out for speaking out against inappropriate behavior.

The complaint alleges that Mr. Baca demonstrated a clear pattern of abuse, particularly targeting women in the office. The elected official would allegedly focus extensively on the physical features of female staffers, making objectifying comments about their looks and dating life. In one instance, Ms. Pang claims, Mr. Baca admitted to preferring female job candidates who were physically attractive and did not have children. He added that women should wear dresses and makeup to maintain a “good looking team.”

Further Allegations Against San Bernardino County Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr.

The complaint also alleges that Mr. Baca responded to complaints about his behavior with threats to staffers’ job security. Ms. Pang attempted to protect other staffers but often became the victim of these tirades herself. Numerous staffers witnessed Mr. Baca berating Ms. Pang, according to the complaint, though he often attempted to corner or meet with her alone.  

By 2025, Ms. Pang still had not received her promised raise. When pressed, Mr. Baca informed her he could find someone “younger, prettier, and with no kids” to fill her position. On February 5, 2025, Ms. Pang was placed on administrative leave. Later that month, she was fired. She has since struggled to find work in her field; a fact she alleges may be due to Mr. Baca’s influence.  

How McCune Law Group Fights Workplace Injustice

At McCune Law Group, we believe that every employee deserves to work in an environment free from harassment, discrimination, and retaliation. Our attorneys have decades of experience in employment litigation and are deeply committed to protecting the rights of individuals who have been wrongfully treated by their employers, whether in the private sector or within public institutions. We understand that workplace abuse often goes unchecked due to fear, power imbalances, or lack of legal awareness. That is why we approach every case with a combination of aggressive advocacy and compassionate support.

What sets our firm apart is our approach. We understand that employment disputes can be emotionally charged and devastating, especially when they involve long-term harassment, humiliation, or the betrayal of institutional trust. Our attorneys prioritize transparency and communication throughout the legal process, ensuring that clients are empowered and informed every step of the way. We are committed to providing not only legal representation, but also a supportive environment where clients feel safe telling their stories.