Judge: Sisters Entitled To Monetary Damages For Sex Abuse Suffered At Popular L.I. Restaurant

PORT WASHINGTON, N.Y. (CBSNewYork/AP) -- A judge has ruled three Long Island sisters are entitled to monetary damages for the sexual abuse they endured at a local restaurant where they worked.

Ashley, Gabrielle and Lauren D'Annunzio said in their lawsuit that the abuse occurred from 2005 to 2008 at Ayhan's Fish Kebab Restaurant in Port Washington.

The sisters claimed they were routinely subjected to lewd comments and behavior by male workers, including a cook who was  convicted of attempted sexual abuse in 2008 and sentenced to four months in prison for attacking Lauren D'Annunzio in the restaurant's basement.

The judge said Tuesday there was "overwhelming evidence of disturbing sexual harassment" in the case and the facts so clearly supported the plaintiffs there was no need for a trial.

"These facts demonstrate that the conduct was severe and pervasive, and that an objectively hostile work environment was created," said Judge William F. Kuntz II.

The judge dismissed a section of the lawsuit against the restaurant owner, saying there's no evidence he was aware of the harassment.

A magistrate will assess damages against the restaurant, Newsday reported.

The restaurant's attorney said he hasn't decided whether to appeal.

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