One-armed man sues Starbucks for not hiring him

SAN DIEGO — A man who was born with half a left arm is suing Starbucks for failing to hire him as a barista.

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Eli Pierre sued the company in San Diego two weeks ago for unspecified damages.

Pierre says that during a Feb. 1 interview for a San Diego job, the store manager told him that the coffee flavoring syrups were placed high up and a one-armed man couldn't work there.

The discrimination suit claims that the former bartender was capable of doing the job but was never given a chance to fully explain his capabilities or possible accommodation as required under state law.

Starbucks says it employs many disabled persons and Pierre's disability wouldn't disqualify him. The company says his application was thoughtfully considered and disputes his version of the interview.