Former Hyattsville Police Officer Accuses Several Department Members of Sexual Harassment

July 12th, 2012    Posted in Sexual Harassment News

A former Hyattsville police officer has filed a federal sexual harassment lawsuit alleging sexual discrimination and abuse occurred frequently within the city’s police department as well as alleges she was retaliated against after complaining to supervisors.

Marsha Lessard, a 2005 graduate of the Prince George’s County Police Academy, alleges she was sexually assaulted by a ranking officer in addition to being subjected to several counts of sexual harassment throughout her employment.

“The Hyattsville Police Department has a dangerously chauvinistic culture that was rife with sexual bigotry,” reads Lessard’s complaint. “Male officers were allowed and encouraged to sexually harass female officers. The worst offenders acted with impunity and female officers that complained of the harassment were severely retaliated against and threatened.”

The suit lists at least 10 Hyattsville city police officers and the incidents that Lessard alleges constitute sexual harassment and which created a hostile work environment.

Like Lessard, if you have experienced any unwanted sexual incidents at work, it is imperative that you seek legal help immediately with an experienced sexual harassment lawyer.  Sexual harassment can range from mild incidents to severe crimes, but not doing anything about the situation will almost undoubtedly ensure they escalate. Workplace discrimination lawyers make sure the unwanted sexual abuse is ceased immediately and that perpetrators are held liable for their actions.

No one should have to suffer in a fearful and hostile work environment, but the reality is that many victims do not come forward to seek help or have complained about the situation to no avail. If you have made complaints to your supervisors about inappropriate discrimination or sexual conduct without receiving aid, sexual harassment attorneys will take on you case and ensure your rights are upheld.

Contact a top sexual harassment attorney today to discuss your options and stop the sexual offender immediately.