Former Intern Sues Point72 Over PTSD Seat Change Termination

Legal Battle Over Workplace Accommodations

Andrew Pardo, a former intern at Steve Cohen's Point72, is currently involved in a legal dispute with the firm. The lawsuit alleges that he was fired after requesting accommodations for his PTSD. According to the complaint, Pardo was seeking a quieter workspace due to his mental health condition, which he claims was diagnosed after experiencing physical abuse.

The suit states that the moment Pardo disclosed his disability, the firm treated him as a liability rather than an asset. This claim has led to allegations that Point72 violated New York State and City human rights laws based on disability and race. In response, the hedge fund issued a statement calling the lawsuit "ridiculous and without merit" and indicated they intend to address the matter in court.

Pardo, who participated in the 2023 summer intern program at Point72 after completing his junior year at the University of Michigan, claims that he was initially seated in a high-traffic area. This placement was described as a specific somatic trigger that caused flashbacks, panic symptoms, and emotional dysregulation. Although he was eventually moved to a new desk, he was soon thereafter terminated.

The complaint also highlights the firm's culture, which Pardo describes as characterized by heavy drinking. He claims that this environment made it difficult for him to work there, especially with his PTSD. On his first day, Pardo did not attend an intern happy hour after experiencing an episode. Later, he learned that these events were more than just social gatherings—they were informal rites of passage where interns were expected to consume large quantities of alcohol in the presence of staff and recruitment personnel.

Additionally, the suit mentions that a firm employee smoked marijuana with interns. While marijuana is legal in New York, where Pardo worked for the firm, this behavior raised concerns about the workplace environment.

Lindsay Goldbrum, Pardo’s lawyer and a partner at Goddard Law, clarified that the $20 million figure mentioned in the lawsuit was used as a procedural placeholder. She emphasized that no specific damages amount has been determined yet.

Goldbrum also pointed out that the case brings attention to issues of inclusion in elite industries. Pardo shared his story publicly, stating that he felt compelled to do so to ensure that no one faces retaliation or discrimination for advocating for their basic rights and well-being.

In a LinkedIn post, Pardo wrote that filing the lawsuit was one of the most important steps in his life. He emphasized the need for companies to be held accountable when their actions contradict their promises, particularly regarding mental health, diversity, and inclusion.

This case underscores the importance of workplace accommodations and the need for organizations to foster inclusive environments. As the legal proceedings continue, the outcome could set a precedent for how companies handle similar situations in the future.