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Composer Marty O’Donnell Suing Bungie CEO Over Unpaid Benefits
Earlier this year, we reported that Bungie had terminated the employment of Halo and Destiny composer Marty O’Donnell. At the time, it was clear from his posts on Twitter the firing was unexpected.
O’Donnell has now filed suit against his former employer for unused, unpaid time off that he alleges was promised to him by the company and CEO Harold Ryan. O’Donnell is suing for double the value of the damages.
"Ryan has caused Bungie to violate applicable law and the Company’s policies and practices regarding payment of O’Donnell’s accrued but unpaid vacation time, paid time off, sabbatical time, and other benefits," the filing reads. It is important to note that this is not a lawsuit against Bungie, but rather the CEO as an individual citizen.
Ryan has filed a response, denying the allegations. We’ve reached out to Bungie for comment on the suit and will update should we receive a response. VentureBeat has copies of the filing and response.
[Source: VentureBeat]
Our Take
O’Donnell might have a claim against Bungie, but the suit identified by VentureBeat is a claim against Harold Ryan as an individual. Bungie is an incorporated entity, which should indemnify Ryan against claims for corporate actions.
VentureBeat does mention there are other matters in arbitration, which is often contractually dictated. Those matters are closed, and that’s where O’Donnell’s claims against Bungie for the same things may be heard.
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