Oregon expands inquiry into racial bias, threats at Daimler plant; 9 workers have complained

Oregon has expanded its investigation into discrimination at the Portland truck-making plant of German automotive giant Daimler AG after four more employees came forward with allegations of racial harassment.

The four new civil rights complaints against Portland-headquartered Daimler Trucks North America bring the total to nine, all filed over the past few weeks.

The new complaints include allegations of racial discrimination and physical threats against African-American employees.

Daimler Trucks said in a statement it doesn't tolerate discrimination and is cooperating with the investigation by the state's Bureau of Labor and Industries.

Three weeks ago, state Labor Commissioner Brad Avakian filed a complaint against the company after five Portland employees came forward and said they were subjected to racial slurs and physical threats.