G911 World Exclusive - Bed Bug Attorney Talks Potential Lawsuit by Lesbian Client
LOS ANGELES -- The attorney for the woman who claimed she found a bed bug in her hotel room at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas said she is considering filing a lawsuit against the hotel if a settlement can't be reached, Gambling 911 can reveal in a world exclusive report!
In addition, the attorney said he hopes that the fact that his client, Stephanie Mejia, is part of a lesbian couple with a child was not a factor in the poor treatment she received from MGM management after reporting the bed bug.
In an exclusive interview Thursday from his law firm office that was his first interview about the case, Los Angeles attorney Mike Petikyan told Gambling 911: "I have been hired by Stephanie Mejia, Valerie Herrera and their daughter. Our intention is to reach an amicable resolution with MGM and it is possible that we file a lawsuit if we cannot. Our investigation is on-going and I will not comment in detail."
Mejia, also of Los Angeles, earlier this month posted on Facebook that while on a recent vacation in Las Vegas, she found a bed bug in her room at the MGM and when she complained to the front desk, her concerns were dismissed.
The Facebook post went viral, MGM was forced to publicly defend itself, media picked up the story and an attorney was hired by Mejia.
"At this time, I do not have enough information to confirm or deny that my clients were discriminated against because of their sexual orientation," Petikyan added. "I certainly hope their sexual orientation did not play a factor in this incident."
Mejia's Facebook post about the incident, made in early June, read: "You might want to think twice before staying at the MGM Las Vegas. 5 minutes after getting into our room we are greeted by this bed bug! Gross, right??
"What is even worse is the customer service that I receive from Katherine, the front desk supervisor. No options given to a customer who just paid $341 for 2 nights and when I ask for corporate's number, her response is 'I'm sure you can find it online,' how professional is that??
"What a shame for a big name like the MGM. Totally ruined mine and my family's Vegas experience. Friends please share!!!!!!!!!"
After the post went viral, MGM released a statement to Gambling 911 that seemed to disavow responsibility for the alleged insect infestation: "We take great pride in both our amazing resort and our world-class customer service at MGM Grand Las Vegas. The case generating so much recent social media activity was limited to one guest and one guest room.
"We follow strict protocols, and, on the rare occasion we receive such a complaint, we respond quickly. Contrary to what many might think, these pests do not occur as a result of hotel sanitation issues, but are instead carried into hotels by visitors from all parts of the world.
"This is therefore an issue that must be constantly managed by hotels around the globe. We believe our team and protocols are among the best in the industry."
Gambling 911 asked Petikyan if Mejia could be made available for an interview, but the attorney said that was not possible at this time.
He did indicate, however, that an interview with her may be possible once the case is settled.
Gambling 911 also asked the MGM Grand if the Katherine referred to in the Facebook post could be made available for an interview, and MGM refused.
By Tom Somach
Gambling 911 Staff Writer
