Judge alleged of sexual harassment
An Iowa judge is on defense to clarify his stand in regards to a sexual harassment claim by a former female co-worker against him.
The judge at the center of a sexual harassment claim took the stand, today, during a civil suit filed by the former head of Juvenile Court Services.Bridget Hayes claims Judge John Ackerman touched her inappropriately; and other co-workers discriminated against her during her three years on the job.
Hayes claims derogatory "cartoons" were posted around the work place about her during her job performance evaluation. She says the cartoons read, "you're outta here", and "another one bites the dust." But, during cross examination, the attorney for the state, Grant Dugdale, asked Hayes why she thought the cartoons were directed at her. Hayes said, because someone told her.
Next on the witness stand, three different character witnesses, including Larry Williams, the Superintendent of Sioux City's Community Schools. All three said Hayes was easy to work with, and proficient in her job as the Chief Juvenile Court Officer. Dugdale questioned how well they knew her, and said their ability to observe Hayes performance on the job, was limited.
Dugdale also brought up each account that Hayes gave during her testimony about the alleged sexual harassment, and inappropriate touching by Judge John Ackerman.
Hayes claims all of the incidents were done in public places, yet Dugdale said no one heard or saw anything. He also pointed out that Hayes never specifically documented being "touched inappropriately" in her communications with her superiors.
Hayes' direct supervisor, Judge Richard Vipond, also took the stand today. Hayes' attorney, Aaron Smeall, asked him why he didn't feel the need to do further investigation before firing Hayes. Vipond said, quote "most people in the work place felt she was incompetent," and even after extending her probation period, he said "the problems with low morale and her inability to get along with staff continued to exist."
Lastly, Judge John Ackerman was put on the stand. After being asked if he was aware of Hayes allegations, Ackerman said yes, and he could remember only one occasion where he put his hand on Hayes' shoulder. He says it was when he ran into her at a restaurant late at night, and he was just explaining that he was a designated driver for a group of women, and then proceeded to go inside. He says any other allegations by Hayes were "absurd" and they "never happened."
Ackerman will be back on stand tomorrow morning.
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