Sexual harassment allegations against St Paul Mayor Kaohly Her have escalated as a second senior police official has come forward with claims of inappropriate conduct. The new allegations, reported by the Minnesota Star Tribune, add to the existing complaint filed by Police Chief Axel Henry, deepening the crisis for the city's first female mayor.
Second Official's Allegations Against Mayor Her
The unnamed high-ranking female police officer claimed that Mayor Her "created a sexualized work environment" and made inappropriate comments about her body. The officer also alleged that Her made vulgar noises in the police gym, which left her so unsettled that she resigned from her position.
These claims follow the initial complaint from Police Chief Axel Henry, who accused the mayor of engaging in a prolonged campaign of harassment against multiple employees. The investigation, led by an independent law firm, is examining a pattern of behavior that allegedly began shortly after Her took office in November.
Details of the Alleged Misconduct
According to sources close to the inquiry, the alleged incidents include Her making "orgasmic noises" while stretching in front of others at the gym. Additionally, she reportedly superimposed the faces of senior St Paul police officers onto images of shirtless UFC fighters, creating a hostile work environment.
In a letter dated April 1 to City Attorney Irene Kao, attorney Chris Madel, representing Chief Henry, detailed a screenshot of a message allegedly sent by Her to an employee. The message wished the recipient a "Happy Weiner Wednesday" and included laughing emojis, along with a caption referencing sexual intercourse.
Impact on City Leadership and Public Trust
These allegations have raised serious questions about the mayor's ability to lead and maintain trust within the police department. The resignation of a veteran officer underscores the severity of the situation, as morale among St Paul's law enforcement is likely suffering.
Mayor Her, a former state congresswoman and Hmong refugee born in Laos, has not responded to requests for comment from the Guardian. In a statement to the Star Tribune, she reportedly denied the allegations, but no further details have been released.
Comparison of Allegations: Initial vs. Second Complaint
| Aspect | Initial Complaint (Chief Henry) | Second Complaint (Female Officer) |
|---|---|---|
| Alleged Behavior | Harassment via mobile phones, inappropriate messages | Sexualized environment, comments on body, vulgar noises |
| Impact | Created hostile work environment for multiple employees | Led to officer's resignation |
| Evidence Provided | Screenshots of messages | Witness accounts and personal testimony |
Key Takeaways for Residents and Observers
- The investigation is ongoing, with an independent law firm reviewing evidence.
- Mayor Her's legal team has not issued a detailed public response yet.
- This scandal could affect upcoming city council decisions and budget approvals.
- Police department morale and public confidence in leadership are at risk.