Becky McClain’s Historic Fight Against Pfizer and Attorney Bruce Newman’s Role in New Book, ‘Exposed’

Courage, Justice, and Whistleblowers

In the world of biotechnology, few stories carry the urgency and personal sacrifice of Becky McClain’s battle against Pfizer, a story now immortalized in her memoir, Exposed: A Pfizer Scientist Battles Corruption, Lies, and Becomes a Biohazard Whistleblower. After experiencing dangerous laboratory practices, Becky’s pursuit of truth was fraught with retaliation, health crises, and daunting legal hurdles. At Brown Paindiris & Scott, LLP, we’re honored to have played a role in this case and draw inspiration from moments where our work has driven real change.

Becky’s journey began as a molecular biologist dedicated to public safety. When she encountered genetically engineered viruses and biosafety lapses in her lab, she chose to speak out. Instead of addressing her alarms with concern, Pfizer responded with hostility and intimidation. The consequences Becky suffered were life-altering, resulting from both workplace exposure and the isolating consequences of stepping forward as a whistleblower.

After more than a year searching for legal representation willing to confront Pfizer’s formidable legal team, Becky found a champion in Bruce Newman, Managing Partner here at Brown Paindiris & Scott, LLP and Hartford, CT whistleblower lawyer. In her own words, Becky writes in Exposed:

“On February 3, 2006, I signed a contract with this man (Bruce Newman). After a year and 3 months of searching desperately for legal help, I finally had acquired an attorney brave enough to go up against Pfizer. Bruce Newman was a godsend.”

Winning Becky’s trust meant more than taking on a case, it meant taking on an entrenched multinational corporation with deep pockets and tactical resources. But as employment attorneys, we believe in the power of collective action and fearless advocacy.

The verdict in McClain v. Pfizer was historic. After rigorous litigation, the jury awarded Becky $1.37 million for whistleblower and freedom of speech retaliation, with further awards for punitive damages and attorney’s fees. The court affirmed the importance of protecting employees who bravely speak out about workplace safety, recognizing that safety in the workplace is a matter of public concern, and that such speech deserves shelter from employer retaliation under Connecticut law.

This was not just a legal victory for Becky; it was a wake-up call for an industry, a win for the principle of accountability, and a reminder of the critical importance of representation for whistleblowers. From a legal standpoint, the McClain decision is a cornerstone for whistleblower protections under Conn. Gen. Stat. § 31-51m and § 31-51q, reaffirming the right to speak on public safety without fear of corporate reprisal.

Our firm takes immense pride in fighting for those whose voices might otherwise be drowned out. Every case presents unique facts and circumstances, and while results will always vary, our commitment to individualized attention and steadfast advocacy is unwavering. As attorneys, we strive to create space not just for legal victories, but for lasting change in our communities. To every whistleblower, scientist, and worker who chooses truth over silence: your courage matters. And with the right lawyer by your side, justice can prevail, despite the odds.