There are new developments in the case of a rookie Quincy police officer who claims a veteran police captain sexually harassed her.
We spoke to the city attorney who says the female officer is seeking help from the Florida Human Relations Commission. Now, city officials are working together with the commission to resolve this case.
Quincy city officials say a female police officer has accused 20-year veteran, CPT James Hughes, of sexual harassment. An internal investigation has since been launched.
The case has now been turned over to the Florida Human Relations Commission for further investigation.
Jack McLean, Quincy city attorney, says, "We commenced our process and we now know she has retained a lawyer, which is her right to do that and she has also filed charges with the Human Relations Commission to look into these matters."
It's been more than two years since a high ranking police officer in the city of Quincy has been accused of sexual harassment. Last year city officials updated their sexual harassment policy to make it easier for folks to file a report.
Derrick Elias, Mayor of the City of Quincy, says, "We went back and revised them and put in some stronger language and basically we've taken a no tolerance approach to sexual harassment, therefore if a person is found guilty they would be disciplined accordingly and likewise we're taking an approach to those who file frivolous charges and receive a settlement."
CPT Hughes is still on the job pending the outcome of the investigation. City officials said he would not comment on the case.
It should take anywhere from 45 to 180 days for the Human Relations Commission to release its finding. In the past employees reported sexual harassment allegations to their immediate supervisors. The new policy makes it easier for employees to file a charge because a charge can be filed with anyone including the city manager.
Also, folks use to wait a long time before filing their claims now have to file as soon as they feel an incident of sexual harassment has occurred.
