Plaintiff alleges major bank engaged in discriminatory termination practices

A former employee has taken legal action against a major financial institution, alleging wrongful termination and discrimination. Darlene Breban filed a complaint in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois on January 23, 2026, accusing BMO Bank, N.A. of unlawful employment practices. The lawsuit highlights issues of alleged discrimination based on sex and ethnicity, as well as retaliation following her opposition to a hostile work environment.

Darlene Breban, a seasoned banker with over seventeen years of experience, including several years at BMO Bank, claims she was unjustly terminated after raising concerns about a hostile work environment perpetuated by a male colleague. Breban’s career at BMO began in July 2021, where she quickly rose through the ranks due to her exemplary performance and dedication. Despite her unblemished record and numerous promotions, Breban’s employment was abruptly terminated in August 2024 following an aggressive investigation led by BMO’s internal team. She alleges that this investigation was conducted in a hostile manner and that she was treated more harshly than her male counterparts who faced similar allegations.

Breban asserts that her termination was not only baseless but also retaliatory. She had previously cooperated with investigations into improper sales practices within the bank but refused to provide false statements against her superior. This refusal allegedly led to increased scrutiny and ultimately her dismissal from the bank without any documented justification or evidence of policy violations. The complaint further accuses BMO Bank of pretextual allegations concerning loan applications and customer service practices that were standard procedure according to company training.

In seeking justice, Breban is asking the court for compensatory damages for both monetary losses such as lost wages and benefits, as well as non-monetary damages including emotional distress and reputational harm. Additionally, she seeks punitive damages for what she describes as willful and malicious conduct by BMO Bank that violated federal anti-discrimination laws under 42 U.S.C. § 1981 and state laws under the Illinois Human Rights Act.

Representing Darlene Breban is attorney Frank Avila from Chicago. The case is being overseen by judges at the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois under Case ID: 1:26-cv-00821.