SC judge wants Boeing 787 whistleblower settlement on the record
A federal judge has rejected a settlement between Boeing and a whistleblower's family for the third time, demanding the confidential terms be made public.Summary
U.S. District Court Judge Bruce Howe Hendrick has rejected a settlement between Boeing Co. and the family of John M. Barnett, a former quality manager who died by suicide in March 2024. The settlement, which included a $50,000 payment to Barnett's estate, was previously approved by a U.S. Labor Department judge but was kept confidential to protect sensitive commercial information. Hendrick has refused to approve the deal three times, stating she cannot determine if it is fair without knowing the full terms. She has rejected Boeing's offer to privately review the secret terms and has ordered the settlement details be placed on the public record. Barnett's family has agreed to disclose the confidential portion of the agreement, with the funds to be donated to organizations that protect corporate whistleblowers. Boeing has admitted no liability and has stated it was saddened by Barnett's death.
(Source：Postandcourier)