Philadelphia Police Commissioner Richard Ross resigned from his position on Tuesday amid sexual harassment and racial and gender discrimination allegations. Two female officers in the department filed a federal lawsuit on Monday that alleges employment discrimination, a hostile work environment, workplace retaliation, and more. The suit claims that the police commissioner apparently failed to take action against the harassment and discrimination even though the plaintiffs allege that he knew about the issues beforehand. Over a year ago, policies aimed to prevent sexual harassment and to eliminate discrimination in the workplace took effect at the police agency. The city will conduct a further investigation to determine how to address these issues.
Forms of harassment and discrimination create a hostile work environment for victims but also for other employees who witness and endure the toxicity as bystanders. A workplace in any industry cannot be productive or even safe with negative behavior pervading its inner workings and traumatizing employees. Policies against harassment and discrimination are only effective if the employer and employees comply with the guidelines.
If you experienced sexual harassment or employment discrimination at your job, our Philadelphia employment discrimination lawyers at The Gold Law Firm P.C. will investigate your claim and determine how to construct your case. Call us today at 215-569-1999 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with a seasoned attorney. We provide legal representation to clients throughout Pennsylvania and South Jersey from our offices in Philadelphia and Pennsauken, New Jersey.
