Cross-examination of this witness.

Exhibit #1

Witness Statement

Name of Witness: Sergio Parra HMA 2

Position: Counter Clerk, Sam's Restaurant

Date: 12/03/00

I, Sergio Parra, hereby provide this witness statement in the arbitration regarding the termination of Bruce Belfry from his position at State Agency ("SA"). As a witness during an incident at Sam's Restaurant, as the front counter clerk, I had the opportunity to observe and interact with Mr. Belfry during his frequent visits to Sam's Restaurant during his lunch breaks. Mr. Belfry's conduct at Sam's Restaurant raised significant concerns over discrimination and public hostility. Mr. Belfry made derogatory remarks about other patrons at the restaurant numerous times based on their race, gender, or other protected characteristics.

Consequently, the restaurant was hostile to the other diners, as well as, Mr. Belfry's colleagues, who often ate lunch with him at the same time. In an act of aggression and hostility that day, Mr. Belfry stripped down to his underwear and tossed them at me and my manager at the restaurant. Belfry threw other objects, but none of them hit my head. The restaurant manager had to call the police to get the situation under control. He was clearly out of control, and the police were called to ensure the safety of everyone in the restaurant. Further, his behavior was completely unacceptable and required immediate action to ensure the safety of everyone in the restaurant.

Furthermore, Mr. Belfry's behavior outside of the restaurant worsened the situation. The Middletown police report, which is included as evidence, documents an incident where Mr. Belfry engaged in aggressive behavior in public and indecent exposure, further reflecting his inability to uphold the standards of conduct expected of SA employees. Further, Mr. Belfry's actions in our restaurant were unprofessional, disrespectful, and discriminatory, violating a state employee's conduct. Additionally, Mr. Belfry's behavior constitutes harassment as defined in Section XX of the SA personnel policy.

Moreover, his discriminatory comments and hostile demeanor towards clients and colleagues created an intimidating and offensive environment, which is unacceptable under any circumstances. Based on the evidence presented, including witness statements, the Middletown police report, and relevant sections of the SA personnel policy, I firmly believe that the decision to terminate Mr. Belfry's employment was justified. His actions violated the trust and respect of our establishments and my coworkers and undermined the integrity of an employee of SA. I am willing to provide further testimony and answer any questions related to this witness statement.