Warren v. D’Alfonso et al.

Background & Issues:

• Warren, a CPC letter carrier, was charged in 2021 for allegedly leaving the scene of an accident and suspended for five days by CPC (later reduced to 2.5 days).
• He applied for short-term disability, which was denied after six weeks.
• In June 2023, charges were stayed or dismissed; he sued D’Alfonso and Lifework for defamation, discrimination, and racism.
• Sought to increase lost wages claim to $110,000 and add new defendants.

Court’s Rulings:

1. Amendments Allowed:

   • Lifework renamed Telus Health in the claim.
   • CPC added as a defendant due to a potential defamation claim based on Sicard’s July 6, 2021, letter accusing Warren of dishonesty and lack of integrity, which was shared with third parties.

2. Proposed Defendants Denied:

   • D’Alfonso removed (Warren conceded).
   • Rodricks’ letter (Feb 6, 2024) was routine, not defamatory.
   • Sicard & Keating acted within employment scope; CPC is vicariously liable.

3. Defamation Claim Against CPC:

   • Charge dismissal in 2023 revived limitation period; claim not time-barred.
   • CPC’s internal handling of allegations, including distribution of the letter, is relevant.

Next Steps:

• Warren has 30 days to amend his claim.
• CPC and Telus Health have 30 days to respond.
• Mandatory mediation within 120 days.

No damages or costs were awarded at this stage.