Back to News December 02, 2025
The Philadelphia Parking Authority Wage Theft Lawsuit
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A Philadelphia Parking Authority (PPA) security officer has filed a federal class-action lawsuit accusing the agency of unlawfully deducting wages for work performed during mandatory breaks. Terrez McCleary, who is represented by Pond Lehocky, alleges PPA violated the Fair Labor Standards Act and state labor laws by automatically subtracting 30-minute meal and rest breaks from security officers’ pay despite requiring them to keep working. According to the complaint, officers must remain at their posts during these “illusory” breaks, continuing to monitor impoundment lots, manage traffic, assist customers, and operate gates. McCleary, who has worked for the PPA since 2018, says her repeated complaints were dismissed, and a supervisor allegedly “laughed at her” when she mentioned contacting a lawyer. The lawsuit seeks class-action status for 20–30 current officers, with the potential to include more former employees. It requests unpaid wages, overtime, attorney fees, and other damages related to the wage theft allegations. PPA declined to comment.
If you have questions about wage law, or suspect that you’re not being paid fairly for your work, contact Pond Lehocky today at 800-568-7500.
What Is Wage Theft?
Wage theft occurs when an employer illegally withholds money or benefits that a worker has rightfully earned. It includes situations where an employer:
- Steals tips
- Pays below minimum wage
- Fails to pay overtime
- Forces employees to work without pay
- Withholds a final paycheck
- Does not pay for off-the-clock work
- Makes unauthorized paycheck deductions
How a Wage Theft Lawyer Can Help You
A wage theft lawyer can be your strongest ally when your employer refuses to pay what you’ve earned. Your attorney will first review your pay stubs, time records, and employment documents to identify violations such as unpaid overtime, off-the-clock work, illegal tip pooling, misclassification as an “independent contractor,” or failure to pay minimum wage. From there, your wage theft lawyer can calculate how much you’re owed, explain your rights under state and federal law, and lay out your options for moving forward.
If your employer won’t do the right thing voluntarily, your lawyer can file a claim or lawsuit on your behalf, negotiate directly with the company and its insurance carriers, and fight for compensation that may include back pay, interest, penalties, and attorneys’ fees. Most importantly, a wage theft attorney handles the legal stress for you, managing everything from gathering evidence and completing paperwork to protecting you from retaliation. This way, you can focus on your life and your family while they focus on getting you paid.
Contact Pond Lehocky Today
If you believe that you’ve been the victim of wage theft, it’s critical to seek guidance from a licensed attorney. At Pond Lehocky, we provide expert advice, step-by-step guidance, and support for you throughout the legal process. We’re committed to making sure that hardworking people receive all the pay and benefits they’re owed. Call us at 800-568-7500 or contact us online today.
