A female Columbus Division of Fire cadet has accused a former high-ranking departmental official of coercing her to disrobe and sexually touching her while the two were alone in his office. Unfortunately, this type of sexual harassment is common in fire departments.
About Sexual Harassment
It is important that when unwelcome conduct crosses the line and becomes severe or pervasive enough to create an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment to seek advice from a lawyer. We can offer advice and help. Men and women both are guilty of sexual harassment. A harasser can be anyone. He or she can be a supervisor, coworker, or even a non-employee of the company. Anyone affected by offensive conduct could be eligible for a claim, even if he or she is not a direct victim of sexual harassment.
Fire Cadet Sexual Harassment Lawsuit
The fire cadet sexual harassment lawsuit is asking for $25,000 against the city of Columbus and former battalion chief. He resigned last year amid allegations of inappropriate comments to female employees and a rape investigation by the Columbus Division of Police. There is also a challenge to the constitutionality of the state’s tort reform law that caps settlements at $250,000.
The cadet alleges the chief coerced the woman into removing her pants to look at her injured knee. The woman said the wounded knee was preventing her from exercising with her cadet class. She was not wearing any underwear during the inspection. Then, the chief asked her to perform the exercises while he watched. At one point, he even sexually touched her. The woman felt she could be kicked out of the program if she didn’t perform the exercises.
This isn’t the first complaint against the battalion chief. Three other female employees also told internal division investigators that he made sexual comments to them. Plus, he asked them personal sexual questions. Before resigning, the city put the battalion chief on leave during a rape investigation. There have also been numerous other complaints from other women who went to frequent private meetings in his office.
Free Legal Consultation
If you have experienced sexual harassment in any form, you should contact a qualified complex litigation attorney as soon as possible. If the harassment has not stopped after making a formal complaint, consulting an attorney is your best option. The Michael Brady Lynch Firm will be able to provide further guidance. We can also help you file a claim and help you build a case that will end the harassment. We have over 20 years of helping victims. Our consultations are free. Contact us today.