A lawsuit has been filed in Michigan accusing Amerilodge CEO Asad Malik of sexually harassing a former Bay City hotel manager during a company outing earlier this year. Stephanie Starling filed the complaint on August 13 in U.S. District Court, accusing Malik of sexual harassment, retaliation, assault and battery, intentional infliction of emotional distress, and creating a hostile work environment.
The lawsuit claims the incident happened on February 20, 2025, when Malik invited Starling and coworkers to a Justin Timberlake concert in Detroit. According to the filing, Malik repeatedly made unwanted advances, including inappropriate comments, attempts to kiss her, and touching her thigh and buttocks. Starling says she tried to avoid him by hiding in a bathroom.
After the concert, Malik allegedly drove her to a dark location and made more advances. She told him she had to leave for a family emergency, at which point he allegedly wrapped his arms around her. Starling says she threatened to walk back in the snow before Malik drove her to the hotel, where her boyfriend picked her up.
Starling and her supervisor reported the incident to human resources. She was told a third-party investigation would be conducted, but the complaint calls it a “complete sham,” saying it was carried out by a civil defense firm hired by Amerilodge. During the investigation, Starling was terminated and offered a settlement if she dropped her claims, which she refused. She alleges she was fired in retaliation for reporting the harassment.
Starling is asking for lost wages and benefits, compensatory and punitive damages, attorney fees, and other relief. Her lawyer, Jack Schulz, said this case highlights how corporate HR departments often prioritize protecting the company over protecting employees. Malik has not responded to requests for comment.
