As a result of this controversy, Park District CEO Michael Kelly was forced to resign after Mayor Lori Lightfoot publicly called for his removal.
The Chicago Aquatics department has been rocked by a number of sexual harassment allegations. Some of these alleged incidents have involved minors, former lifeguards, and other park district employees. Obviously, this type of sexual misconduct has no place in Chicago, especially when minors are involved. Those responsible for this misconduct ought to be brought to justice, but it remains to be seen whether or not this will actually happen.
If you have been sexually harassed in your Illinois workplace, you have every right to file a lawsuit against those responsible. With help from a qualified, experienced sexual harassment attorney in Chicago, you can approach this difficult situation in an effective, confident manner. These legal professionals can not only help you hold negligent individuals accountable for their misconduct, but they can also guide you towards a considerable settlement. This settlement can provide financial compensation for everything you’ve been forced to go through.
Chicago Lifeguards File Sexual Misconduct Reports
On October 15th, three sexual harassment reports were filed by lifeguards working at the Chicago Park District. Police detectives immediately began investigating the allegations, which include reports that a 31-year-old supervisor had been committing sexual misconduct against a 16-year-old female lifeguard. Two other reports involved a senior lifeguard “sexually attacking” other park district employees at pools in the park district.
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Unfortunately, one of these reports was dismissed, as the statute of limitations had expired. However, the other two cases remain open. This is part of a large investigation that began back in April of 2021, when it became clear that the park district’s inspector general was conducting a secret investigation into widespread instances of sexual abuse, assault, and harassment within the Aquatics Department. An investigation later determined that over a dozen female lifeguards had been sexually harassed over the past few decades.
Park District CEO Michael Kelly Forced to Resign
As a result of this controversy, Park District CEO Michael Kelly was forced to resign after Mayor Lori Lightfoot publicly called for his removal. The mayor stated that the “lack of urgency or accountability” by leadership within the Park District was “unacceptable,” and Michael Kelly resigned shortly after Lightfoot had made this statement.
Book Your Consultation Today
If you’ve been sexually harassed at your workplace, it may be tempting to simply stay quiet and continue as if nothing happened. No one can force you to speak out and take legal action, but you should consider your legal options before making a final decision. Consult with a qualified attorney, and you can learn about how to move forward in an efficient manner. By filing a lawsuit, you send a clear message that this kind of behavior is not okay. You can also hold guilty parties accountable, deterring future harassment and protecting people like you from experiencing the same misconduct. Book your consultation today.
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