COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) - In a new lawsuit filed in state court, a man alleges that several Columbia convenience stores didn’t allow him to use the restroom because he’s African-American.
Media outlets report that Richland County resident Daniel Woodard says that in November 2016 he went to five convenience stores named in the lawsuit, mostly to buy gasoline, and asked to use the restroom. He says that “on each occasion, he was denied.”
The lawsuit further states that other customers who are white were allowed to use the restroom.
The convenience stores are all north of downtown Columbia. Hector Tapia, who manages an El Cheapo convenience store being sued, says he was surprised to learn of the lawsuit and denies Woodard’s allegations.
The lawsuit asks for at least $5 million in damages, plus fees.
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