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Ex-sheriff’s secretary files sexual harassment lawsuit

On Behalf of | Nov 29, 2013 | Sexual Harassment |

The ex-secretary of a county sheriff has chosen to commence a sexual harassment lawsuit against her former employer. The woman has alleged in her complaint that the sheriff is guilty of creating a hostile work environment and of subjecting her to comments and gestures that constituted sexual harassment. Her lawsuit also alleges that the sheriff’s behavior was motivated by his romantic interest in her. While this litigation is not taking place in Florida, situations like this also occur in this state, and they are highly inappropriate.

The ex-secretary claims that the Sheriff’s inappropriate behavior continued from the period of Jan. 2012 through May 2013. After May, the woman transferred out of the sheriff’s office to another department of the county. The sheriff has denied all of his former secretary’s allegations against him.

The specific details of the woman’s lawsuit include allegations that the sheriff made both inappropriate and sexual gestures that were directed at the woman. Other claims indicate that the sheriff sent emails that were harassing. The plaintiff has requested a total of $1 million with regard to each of the two counts of sexual harassment included in the lawsuit. She has also asked for $1 million in punitive damages, in addition to compensation for the infliction of emotional distress.

Government employees in Florida who have been the victims of sexual harassment have numerous legal options at their disposal. Not only is it advisable for victims to report the incidents to managers and supervisors at their workplaces, but legal recourse may be available to victims to obtain legal redress for financial damages caused by the harassment. For example, when a person loses his or her job as a result of sexual harassment, it is both proper and just that person be compensated for lost income and other damages.

Source: stltoday.com, Madison County sheriff denies sexual harassment claims in lawsuit : News, Jennifer S. Mann, Nov. 27, 2013