The complaint alleges Leopold "created a hostile working environment for women" and contends "virtually all of the women who worked in the county executive's office were terrified and terrorized by Leopold," according to a copy of the lawsuit obtained by The Capital.
When the female employee complained about Leopold, she was transferred to another department and then dismissed from her job, the lawsuit alleges.
"Leopold basically surrounded the executive office with women, and ran the place with basically a reign of terror," said attorney John Singleton, who said he will file the lawsuit on behalf of Leopold's former public information officer, Karla Hamner.
"There's no doubt she was retaliated against," Singleton said. "Once she complained, they knew she was a ticking time bomb."
Hamner, who first made the claims in May 2009, is filing the lawsuit in county Circuit Court in Annapolis after failed attempts to negotiate a settlement with the county. The complaint requests a jury trial and asks for $300,000 in damages.
County Attorney Jonathan Hodgson said this morning that the county will refuse to settle.
"Ms. Hamner's allegations are ludicrous on their face, and are calculated for maximum political effect by being filed after such a long period of time and just before an election," Hodgson said.
With less than 10 weeks to Election Day, it is unclear whether Leopold's fundraising and name recognition advantage over his political opponents will overcome the allegations.
"If there had been any merit to these claims whatsoever, we would have given fair consideration to a reasonable settlement proposal, but this case does not justify even one dollar of taxpayer money," Hodgson said.
"We intend to defend this case, and we intend to win."
A less detailed version of Hamner's claims emerged in May 2009 amid a string of public allegations about Leopold's treatment of women, including complaints he aggressively
propositioned woman in a cafeteria lunch line and used his legislative office as a dating service.
Hamner also has complained that Leopold's alleged fury over her hairstyle once led to a physical altercation.
At the time, Leopold first denied knowledge of any of the incidents, then said he did nothing wrong.
In 2009, Hamner filed a complaint with the Maryland Commission on Human Relations and the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, a step necessary before a discrimination lawsuit can be filed. Hamner has since relocated to Kentucky to find stable employment, she said.
Different treatment
Hamner's complaints about Leopold began with her first job interview in 2007, when Leopold allegedly told her, "If you were single, I would ask you out because you just seem like you're a lot of fun."
Within weeks of being hired, Hamner said she noticed "Leopold treated women far differently than he treated men, treating women in a demanding, intimidating and oftentimes demeaning fashion," according to the lawsuit.
In one instance, Leopold saw a group of people on the street and allegedly asked Hamner if she "knew the woman with the blond hair in the green dress with big boobs," the lawsuit states.
In another, Leopold allegedly began excluding women from weekly strategy meetings. The attractive women hired to represent Leopold publicly were referred to as "Leopold's Angels."
The complaint also alleges Leopold "would often lose his temper with women over trivial matters, including their appearance."
Hamner said she lost her job after expressing concerns in what she thought was a confidential discussion with the head of the county's Human Resources Office.
She said that in late 2007, Leopold began making comments about the way Hamner's hair fell across her face. She noted that male employees were never questioned about their looks.
She said the comments also were made over the telephone, and by April 2008 resulted in a physical altercation in which Leopold grabbed her arms and yelled at her to "get your hair out of your face," according to the lawsuit.
Hamner said she brought her concerns to the attention of County Personnel Officer Ande Fulton a month later when a new, female public information officer was hired and Hamner's job duties were revoked.
Within hours of the conversation, Hamner was dismissed from her job and reassigned to the county Police Department, she said. But once she was there, no job existed; she had to reapply for a position and was eventually given two weeks' severance, the lawsuit said.
"This isn't typical sexual harassment," said Singleton, Hamner's attorney. "This is gender discrimination and retaliation. He's got this thing about women. He treats women differently, no ifs, ands or buts about it."
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Prayers for My district - 2010-08-31 13:35:03
I live in a district that has claimed to favor York, as a Vitale endorced cloan. At the end of the day she is not a real republican, but a Rhino that was bought off by Leopold for a rennovation of a high school. If York was not vote bought by Leopold, then Vitale would be all over this story, as she has experienced this type of discrimination in the past and never really liked Leopold. Is the highschool so important to her she is willing to sacrafice her dignity, her reputation and all of the women out there who look up to her? Too high of a price to pay if you ask me.
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John Hartwell - Severna Park, MD - Karma: Neutral
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prayers for the women employees of - 2010-08-31 13:29:31
It does not matter if you have been treated like Karla alleges. What matters is you are forced to defend the boss. It is coward of Leopold to hide behind his female staff and appointees to get thru this. He should have managed these stories better to shield them from the shame comments like Trooper Snooper puts out there. I do think that he would benefit greatly from a council that has alliances with him. I think that he is acting guilty and throwing the people around him under the bus. If he were truly a good leader, he would have press released something that sticks up for all of those hard workers that make him look so good as an executive. Instead he cowers behind them like a wet noodle covered in tomato sauce. Shame on Leopold. Hey voters: say no to york, fink, bissett and grasso. All of what I see out there confirms they will not be able to manage any independent review of this matter should it fall in their laps.
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Wendy Cassidy - Lothian, MD - Karma: Neutral
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Courage of Morality - 2010-08-31 12:14:20
It is so challenging to be the party of morales and values and then get stuck with perversive actions by one of the top republican leaders of our County and of our state. Fitting that Ehrlich chose a running mate that has ethical issues as well. With Leopold, Kane, Bissett, York Fink and Grasso, you can guarentee the republicans never gain real confidence in the voters. We need to clean up government. It starts in two weeks -- vote for anyone but those Leopold dream teamers. They are all void of values and lack morality. Come November, hopefully, we will have surrounded our county executive with real, independent councilmembers who will keep him in check. Remember: Council is the oversite of the executive's office. Had we had real leadership w/ our current council, it would not have taken two + years to have a resolution of the courts. It is obvious Leopold will win despite all of this.
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Wes Sutton - Edgewater, MD - Karma: Neutral
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prophecy and politics - 2010-08-30 19:39:49
I was visiting a church in aaco last year, when a revered religious figure talked that night. It was about Leopold. He gave the prophecy that Leopold would be removed from ofice in the space of a year, against his will. I kind of feel bad for the guy, with the back troubles, and the allegations of the mistreatment of women. He should have been warned of the spirit of Jezebel that has plagued this area for some time.
However, when The Lord speaks, we would all be better off if we just listened. But, the shame is, I still think this a funny post.
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ficticious name - annapolis, md - Karma: Terrible
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Where is the state in all of this - 2010-08-27 15:24:17
We clearly need to see more attention to this office from someone in the county or better still the state to make certain our taxdollars are not paying for political consultations, reelection committees, dating services, etc. I dont care how much this guy has done, he made a promise to all of us to be truthful, forthright, and responsible for all he does. We pay him a salary, groups endorce as their way of saying we appreciate you. that appreciation ends when my tax dollars go to issues that are personal. If this is going on in the workplace, there must be independent justice. What he does in private cant be financed by us, ever, period. The insinuations of the county attorney's office suggests our tax bill may be much higher than previously thought.
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Jeannie Spencer - Shadyside, MD - Karma: Neutral
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extremes - 2010-08-27 15:12:34
There are some boards and commissions appointed by both council and exec that have no direct association with politics of their offices. They are there to deliberate independent and / or provide a specific non-partisian service to the community, dept of aging, ethics commission, board of appeals,planning commission,animal welfare commission, and similar. I agree with the other commentators that if you follow the money and "political advisors" that you will see who is lining up with whom. Fink, Grasso, York, and Bissett have a trailled paper connection to Leopold, but the others are frivilous speculation. This is a story about Leopold, so lets not go too far. Many civic and community leaders serve on these boards respectfully and independently. There is a difference between helping someone get elected and asking community leaders to participate in civic affairs. Yes, some are paid small stipends, but many are not and they volunteer their time. I would not find any rational political association. We as voters need to encourage more people to volunteer and be willing to share their talents, experiences and skills with the community. Clearly Leopold has some other shadows surrounding his administration if he is really working with specific candidates in contested primary races of his own party. That will need to be a conversation between those 4 and the exec. and that RCC group we heard quoted in the paper just the other day. What the conversation will be at the voting booth is who will stand with them to clean out all of the criminals, racists, sexists, socialists and those that truly lack integrety. We need an ethical group of leaders in. Ones who have a strong connection to the community and will work hard for us. I believe like Ronald Reagan did that we have the capacity to elect responsible, respectible, ethical, experienced and knowledgeable officials to represent us.
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Margaret Bristol - Laurel, MD - Karma: Neutral
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Races - 2010-08-27 13:31:51
Bottom Line is that I am encouraging my county friends to vote like this
Dist 1. vote for Jones
Dist 2. Vote for Klosterman or Middlebrooks but no way Grasso
Dist 3. Vote for Holland or Parks but no way for Fink
Dist 4. Vote for Benoit or Hallihan but no way for Weinstein
Dist 5. Vote for Ladd or Rudolph
Dist 6. Vote for any of them as long as Bukhart isn't tied to Leopold If he is, I suppose I favor Ferrar over Trumauer
Dist 7. Vote for anyone but Corkadell or Bisset
My research reveals that the remaining candidates are not good for the county.
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trooper snooper - pasadena, md - Karma: Excellent
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when the deal goes down - 2010-08-27 12:28:19
How can vitale be cool with york working with the bad guys camp? Only if something as big as a highschool could make a bad relationship between vitale and leopold reconcile. I have a BOE person representing me right now and I have to say, as a rule, I will never vote for anyone associated with BOE. They are all so one sided and have not balance between education and all the other things government does. My area does not have a lot of kids but we pay a lot of taxes. This must be some heck of a highschool. I assume votes come with that promise they are making. Mine down here wants taxes raised so she can give maxwell another bonus and raise. Severna Park seems to really want that school. I guess just about anyone can be boght. I thought Vitale had better character. Her want to be shadow York seems to lack it. At least Vitale has some spine. Her wannabe replacement is willing to throw a fellow woman under the bus for their votes. How repulsive. We need women on the council, but not this way. Passing on Johnson and York and Vitale if you live in her state district is in order.
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Wendy Cassidy - Lothian, MD - Karma: Neutral
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it always is about money - 2010-08-27 12:16:15
Im a capitalist at heart so I always want to know if it a bad story, how it affects my pocketbook first and foremost. That one commentor, if true, has me concerned. Were there other settlements? Just like all were able to figure out his council race influence thru financial reports, we must keep tabs on what is going on with his staff and the tax payer dollars. I hope that the state would step in and make certain that legal expenses are not funding Leopold's sexual escapades and discrimination. Also, influence of votes on council aside, isnt the council the one who could call for an audit of that guy Robey that all are talking about? Just like reported about Abrams making calls on taxpayer dime, we need to see if this Robey guy is not running his political consulting firm out of the county exec's office. If this is a frivelous lawsuit then money well spent on leopold's defense. If he is guilty, we should make him pay for all the legal fees and these settlements the county attorney referred to. I dont like the road this administration is taking the taxpayers. I work hard for my money and we have a deficit again this year.
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Kim DeWitt - Edgewater, md - Karma: Neutral
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trooper analysis - 2010-08-27 12:01:48
It is a frightening thought that our county exec can wield that much power. I guess these candidates will make bed with anyone to get elected. I have to agree with Brenna on our district (7) that it would be more than likely bissett. Corkadel's mailer to crofton a couple of weeks back was pretty critical of both the council and the exec's budget decisions. Did Edgewater get it also? It was addressed to Crofton residents. I doubt Leopold would tollerate that. He has made a point to remind all of us that he is the king and you dare not criticize him. Good thing he cant get our addresses from these sites. Our roads would probably go unplowed in the snow next winter. Of course my couldesac didnt get much attention this past winter either. We need to vote for the most qualified not the best connected. I am happy I have some good choices for my council race. I would not want to be in Dist. 2. You have a made man (fink) a bankrupt guy that wears nazi shirts to council meeting and violates regulations at every turn (redmond)and some others that dont have what it takes to be successful. What a year for local politics. It is at its worst.
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Bob Blaney - Crofton, md - Karma: Neutral
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trooper snooper and other - 2010-08-27 11:47:22
I think the theory is intesting and has some truth. I went to the state site and it looks like Bissett, Fink, York and Grasso are the chosen ones. I would not presume the others. There is no papertrail it seems. The rest all have other political assistance coming in or are going solo. I vote bissett is the one to watch out for in my district. After all, isnt the ethics commission also appointed by the county exec? Lets not get paranoid about Dist 4 or my dist. He is only appearing to back one person per race. From the profile of the ones he is teamed with, fink bissett grasso and york, I can see it happening. York as president of her community groups lobbied hard and somehow convinced the county exec to change his mind on funding their highschool up in severna park. That is the motivation behind that one probably. Unless you have a papertrail, please trooper, dont make assumption. I do encourage you to continue to do your due dilligence. If I hadnt read your comment and the others I would have made bad voting decisions. I for one dont want to see some sex adict that treats women like crap to have council power as well. Shame the voters cant send their own postcards out to the voters about what they find out. I encourage all reading to use that link the previous commentor posted. It is pretty obvious who is doing what in those campaign reports.
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Brenna Sanders - Edgewater, md - Karma: Neutral
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Alliances - 2010-08-27 11:11:17
It is no surprise to Edgewater residents that our boy bissett is hanging out with someone having women discrimination issues. yes, that other commentor is correct that he was very sexist in his attacks of Owens in 2002. Just like the residents were very upset down here about his son's arrest not necessarily because he was smoking pot, but because he was with the drug dealer at the time of it. Who you hang out with is typical to how you govern in politics as well as personal life. I would be very concerned about those other buddies of his running for council. Not only is their character suspect but they would be very helpful to leopold should he be found guilty. I see what some of the others are saying. I dont know about money trails, but I do know that people that think alike govern alike at Edgewater can confirm that yes, there are similarities between leopold and bissett. That is why the votes between them were so close last time. We may not have choices for the county exec race, but we do have choices for council. Ok everyone, get up and exercise - your right to vote. We can keep the government clean one vote at a time.
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Bill Collins - Edgewater, md - Karma: Neutral
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Council Connections to Leopold - 2010-08-27 11:07:34
With regard to Council independence from the CE:
District 1: Daryl Jones has no allegiance to Leopold. Independent. Not sure about his opponents.
Dist. 2: Klosterman doesn't appear to be tied to Leopold. Middlebrooks presumably is not sure about Grasso.
Dist. 3: Fink is closely connected to Leopold through Robey and presumably won't be independent. Redmond and Holland don't like Leopold and Parks has no apparent ties.
Dist 4: Benoit and Leopold go after each other all the time and is the one who asked all the questions about the parking lot. He seems totally independent. Weinstein was appointed by Leopold to the animal Welfare Commission and has worked with Leopold to get publicity on Bear Bear the dog so probably isn't independent. Don't know about Hallihan.
Dist 5: I wasnt aware York was connected to Leopold. I doubt Ladd and Rudolph are connected.
Dist 6: Burkhart used to work for Leopold on the Workforce Commission. If he got fired he'll be independent if he just quit he probably wont'. Ferrar and Trumbauer don't have any apparent ties either.
Dist 7.: Corkadel is the head of the Planning Commission and probably won't be independent. I heard that's why she didn't get picked when there was a vacancy last year. Bissett will help whoever whenever it benefits him personally. The others don't have any apparent ties.
I agree that a Council with as few ties as possible to leopold is best if Leopold gets reelected.
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trooper snooper - pasadena, md - Karma: Excellent
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tax money - 2010-08-27 10:50:44
So our tax dollars are going to defend this and I understand that there are frivilous cases all the time filed against people of power. The County attorney noted that if the case had merit then they would have settled out of court. Have there been cases where that actually happened? If some of these comments are true, then we need to be vigilent about overseeing his office. Tax payer dollars going to cover up an exec's bad habits is not how I think the hard earned money we sweat to earn each day should go to this. If he is found guilty, will we be repaid? Who is overseeing all of this? His office appointees (like the county attorney and HR), or the state or council? I hope someone is looking out for our money. Personally, I dont care if he is having affairs with all of his staff so long as I am not paying for either the date or the breakup. Of course I have no tolerance for any level of workplace discrimination or harassment, and no one else who is normal does either. I cant wait until the courts decide this and we can all move along.
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Jeannie Spencer - Shadyside, MD - Karma: Neutral
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choices - 2010-08-27 10:29:02
No one is so important that they should not be replaced when a misconduct is committed. Let us let the court system decide, but we need to be prepared to actual deliver justice if he is found guilty. What makes me nervous is seeing these comments that it does not matter if he is guilty or not. This was not a private affair. This is workplace harrassment and discrimination. If candidates are willing to allign with such a person then you need to ask the hard questions that some of the other commentators are asking. Is he surrounding himself with allies on the council to protect him once found guilty? this is not some sorted affair between married folks. This is a woman who lost her income, her dignity and was emotionally abused. Im sorry folks but if you do the crime, you need to do the time, so to speak. I dont care what he has done positive if individuals have to suffer abuse and harassment to put food on their table and pay the bills. Are those defending him willing to sacrafice their own daughters or spouses to this claimed treatment. I am not saying he is guilty, but we have to be willing to fire him if he is guilty. If we dont elect council that is independent of the county exec then we cant deliver justice when evidence proves guilt. Giving people like that a pass because "they all do it" is not acceptable for workplace harrassment and discrimination. Lets separate the sex from the workplace stuff for a minute please.
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Wendy Cassidy - Lothian, MD - Karma: Neutral
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power grab - 2010-08-27 09:49:36
I am very concerned about teh amount of power our county exec really has. My council race has a female candidate and she is teamed by way of her campaign advisor to not just John Leopold but also to Bissett, Fink, Grosso, and possibly others. Ron Dillon gave the same person a lot of money also and he is not running for office. Where the money trail leads you is amazing. I am so very disappointed in the Dist 5 female candidate. What is most concerning is the separation of the two branches of government. If Leopold has that type of collaboration and influence on the council races then just think what he has going on in his office. I think he has been doing a good job, but the residents need to make certain he is kept honest throughout all of this and my gut and money trail research says otherwise. http://bit.ly/98bfWD
Go to campaign finance database and look up Gilleland under expenditures for these above mentioned candidates and you will find they are all connected. That guy works with the county exec's right hand man Robey. I want independent representation especially while all of this is being investigated, dont you? There are skeletons and then there is outright corruption This seems like the later.
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John Hartwell - Severna Park, MD - Karma: Neutral
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The New Age - 2010-08-26 17:26:57
Sorry to say but this entire country is corrupt anymore. Morals, values, integrity and dignity are that of the past and it's a crying shame. However, we need people to run our country so unfortunatly we have to take what we can get. Leopold does a goood job for our county. If you dig deep enough, you will find skeltons is all of the candidates closets. People are self consumed, period.
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p smith - crofton , md - Karma: Excellent
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Comment removed by HometownAnnapolis staff. - 2010-08-26 15:33:17
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Comment disabled due to community reporting. - 2010-08-26 13:50:21
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Al Gore - 2010-08-26 12:51:00
was investigated 4 separate times for the same incident. They kept closing the case for lack of evidence of wrong doing.
Sometimes people make up stories or stretch the truth.
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Rick M - Laurel, Md - Karma: Excellent
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We need a better system - 2010-08-26 12:31:23
This is now the fifth time Leopold has had investigations on him, but none of them stuck. When the person investigated has power over the witnesses, experts and investigators, how can justice be served and the truth be found? The state should step in on these matters. There is no real way to know the truth without a proper investigation by people outside of this county. If he really were innocent, he would ask the state to step in to take care of this. Of course there were the contract deals with Belcher where evidence disappeared. I think Karla is brave. She is going against a huge network of Leopold loyalists and folks who owe him big time for jobs, contracts and the like. No surprise there is a belcher and Robey on the RCC and the RCC comes out for Leopold. There really are no ethics or boundaries with the AACO republican party is there. The more you know about Leopold, the more crooked he seems. Maryland state: Help us clean up AACO. We need honesty and integrety.
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Frank London - Edgewater, md - Karma: Neutral
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WamWamWaaaam! - 2010-08-26 11:09:31
I wonder if Leopold will tell county police to reopen the investigation into his former incident at the Annapolis Mall, as he did with Bear Bear?
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lee child - pasadena, md - Karma: Bad
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Investigate his Office PLEASE - 2010-08-26 10:33:41
I understand that rumors and half-truths can make reality seem worse than it is, BUT it was reported that the county attorney is using taxpayer dollars to defend Leopold against another past worker for a civil case. Criminal I can understand, but Leopold needs to pay his own consort. How can we expect the law office to ajundicate anyone without bias when he is appointed by the defendant? Capital reported Abrams and possibly others in his office using tax dollars for his campaign. Are the taxpayers paying for his dates too? What about the catfood for his cat? Human Resources is firing people for so much as a hint of criticism against Leopold. How far will his power go? Is there anyone out there that is not on the take to do a real investigation of Leopold and his office? I demand as a taxpayer to know where my money is going once it gets to Leopold's "4th floor". As for the women candidate thing, they would be walking with egg on face if they choose to have anything to do with Leopold. I vote for the best candidate, though, not just because they are women. Look at the one in my district, Johnson. She never shows up for work and knows absolutely nothing about anything other than raising taxes for education. Yes, I remember her record on the BOE and continue to remind my neighbors. Johnson will not get my vote. Not qualified to do the job Im afraid. If what they say about bissett and owens is true, he wont get it either. At least all the races have real choices, mine more than any. Dont know if Dist 4 and 5's women are credible or just education lobbyists like Johnson is. Those types need to keep to PTO where they belong. I dont want may taxes raised to support Leopold's campaign agenda nor for all of that pork in the educ budget.
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Sandra Jankins - Mayo, MD - Karma: Neutral
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Politicizing the Office of County E - 2010-08-26 10:18:30
If those comments about Leopold and his staff helping ANY candidates are true, we have more than a woman candidate issue, we have a conflict of interest. we have three separate branches of government to keep checks and balances in place. I would love to see an audit of his core staff and if they are freelancing to other shovenist candidates. That is wrong and needs to be stopped. I dont know if it is against ethics, but it should be. As for his relationship w women on council, the perception of his bias is definately evident in conversation and in appearance. I encourage all in the county to support these women in Dist 4, 5 and 7. They deserve a chance to keep the balance on council and between branches of government. The more we see of Leopold's office, the less there is to like. How long will people excuse him based on his policy record? Isnt discrimination part of the policy? Oh, that's right, he is too important for THAT type of criticism. No one is too important to get fired.
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Ed Straus - Edgewater, MD - Karma: Neutral
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Leopold and Women candidates - 2010-08-26 10:09:45
He appears to be a good ole boy indeed. If I were a female candidate, I would be staying far away from him. In fact, I never would have gotten too close to begin with. He is unpredictable with women and all of the stories we have heard over the last several years about him should not be ignored. In this day and age, men should know better that you must keep your hands and comments to yourself. I have raised my 2 daughters to stay vigilant at their new "real" jobs, particularly the over 55 group. They just are not willing to accept today's social standards of respecting women as the younger generation. Age and generation is not a valid excuse for Leopold. As the County Exec he must set the example. He has failed us in that regard. I hope the female candidate in my district has not collaborated with Leopold in any way. In doing so, you are condoning this gross, hideous behavior and setting back women's rights in the workplace 50 years. One would hope she is not working w/ Bissett Leopold shovanist group. they give men a bad name.
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John Hartwell - Severna Park, MD - Karma: Neutral
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Women Council and Candidates - 2010-08-26 08:33:47
Leopold's relationship has been rocky to say the least with my councilwoman Johnson and from what I understand, his relationship with Vitale is even worse. He chose to keep distance from the other female candidates running for council seats in September too. I suspect these candidates are not complaining, but I think it definately is an indicator of his opinion of women holding office. The litmus given by one of the commentators indicated that although he has female staff, he is inclined to keep that to admin level positions. Newsflash Leopold: Women are very qualified to hold real positions and are worthy of the same respect as the men in the room. I think we need to elect as many women onto the council as possible to keep his policy in line with the voters. I have two women to choose in my district and I am going to pick the one with the most experience. Sorry guys. We need balance and we have real talent to choose from this year. Leopold: it is 2010, not 1910. Either retire or get with the times.
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Wendy Cassidy - Lothian, MD - Karma: Neutral
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Please - 2010-08-26 07:28:48
Please, Mr. Leopold, it's time to start acting your age. From the picture of Ms. Hamner in another story, she is clearly out of your league.
You're not really that attractive at all. And from the sound of it, you're something less than a smooth operator. Trust me, the women who work with you, and tell you that you're not really a lecher, are laughing at you behind your back.
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Michael Willis - Glen Burnie, md - Karma: Excellent
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I'm now a Democrat... - 2010-08-25 21:49:27
...because I want to be associated with a swell bunch of family value guys like Ted Kennedy, Gary Hart, John Kennedy, Marion Barry, any other Kennedy and our family-value leader, John "I Got Outed by The National Enquirer While My Wife is Dying" Edwards. I would be proud to be able to walk arm-in-arm with any of them.
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Jim Denora - Annapolis, MD - Karma: Excellent
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Think about this.... - 2010-08-25 15:46:02
Lets not make this a 'party' thing. Any of us with half a brain knows that the basket of MD politicians is completely filled with rotten figs. We need to start voting for platforms and issues instead of partys (which isnt always the same, folks).
The one thing in these cases that can make or break the suit is if she had complained or warned him before. If she did, then he's in a heap of trouble. If not, then there isnt a history.
Quite honestly, I think Leo is a litte weird, but the weird kid in class can have some good ideas. I'm sure we have all heard the rumors of him being caught with some woman in the mall parking lot. So what? So the CE is into dogging. None of my business, as long as he is doing his job.
susan Moore, you are grossed out by the age he allegedly prefers? I dont see too much of a problem. Im a younger guy, and I like older women very much. They seem to like me too, as I am absolutly adorable.
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William H - annapolis, md - Karma: Excellent
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Where is Vitale - 2010-08-25 14:35:40
I attended the District 6 appointment session of council and applaud Vitale for mentioning her personal workforce discrimination experience when Benoit invoked a litmus for appointment that was so out of line and grossly inappropriate (race of applicant miller). Where is Ms. Vitale on this issue? Shouldnt someone be looking into how these complaints get handled? Do you honestly expect the appointees of a person to unbiasly review claims against him? She has challenged Leopold for far less than this. I guess Leopold has Vitale thinking she could lose votes by going against the almighty Leopold. Does he have his hand in all of the races in AACO? Living near the Bissett Edgewater clan, I appreciate and can concur with other commentors that a Bissett Leopold alliance is the grossest union Ive heard of in a while and cause for concern on conduct and ethics. Ignoring Hatch Act, making hostile discrimination comments about Owens and now alligning with someone like Leopold who has an issue with the opposite sex. Where is Vitale when we need her? Probably hiding from the casino debate.
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Grace Smith - Edgewater, md - Karma: Neutral
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Tricia - 2010-08-25 14:29:41
trust me I am no political hack for anyone. I am just joe citizen but I have seen some crazy stuff go on in this county. But I do know when I have requested something from Leopold he has delivered. But I do think he is socially awkward. Sorry don't see him as a real playa! So she has moved out of town so it will be to get any real comment from her face to face. Hey if it is proven he harassed or touched her, let him go bye-bye. But I would be if you followed half of the politicians around privately you would find they got something going on. This is not a Dem vs. Rep issue every person from either party is capable of indiscretion.
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Pat Magnum - Arnold, MD - Karma: Excellent
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HR training and conduct codes - 2010-08-25 14:23:41
Does the County Office of Personnel require discrimination and ethics training? I would think that this sort of thing would be strickly policed in a government environment even moreso than private. Do we have a conduct code for these ultrapowerful officials? Congress has one for this very reason If we dont have a way of holding public officials to conduct that has our values and basic rights upheld, then we need to put policy in place that does. It does not matter of his guilt or innocense. The Office of Personnel should have conducted an investigation and the County Council should have had to review and investigate this matter when it originally hit the papers. The checks and balances of our local government is failing and we need to respond now and take voter action both in Septemeber and in November. We can do better than this as a county. Hey HR Appointee! Do your job. Hey County Council! The Voters demand an investigation, or dont they have the will to do the right thing. If slots is any indication, then we are in trouble.
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Frank London - Edgewater, md - Karma: Neutral
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Hey Sal - 2010-08-25 14:06:44
while they are going for the juggler may they can get the court jester as well!!!!
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Mary Ann Donnell - Annapolis, MD - Karma: Excellent
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Birds of a feather - 2010-08-25 14:05:35
So am I reading correct that Leopold is supportive of Bissett? Bissett, although a fellow republican, embarrassed the party in 2002 when he questioned whether Owen's husband was really running the county. Birds of a feather flock together. The bashing of women in power needs to stop. By Leopold and Bissett standards, does that mean Kendell Ehrlich is puppeting Bob cause she is stump speeching for him? It is the same logic as the Bissett baffle in 2002. Presuming all discrimination charges are fake for political or personal gain is just as eroneous. Until you actually experience this type of demeaning discrimination, you should resist the urge to attack the concerned. The county decides my day to day life. No hysteria, but, as we tell our teens, you are judged by who you hang out with , not by your words. Actions are louder and association with these perenial sexist candidates does reveal where Leopold's mantality is, regardless of his innocense or guilt. Two discriminatory candidates seeking power over our lives. We can change this if we all get out and vote out.
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jane mcneal - Edgewater, md - Karma: Neutral
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Yet another republican shame - 2010-08-25 13:54:30
What happened to values and principles of our grand ole party? Leopold is hiding behind political appointees. In this time of limited job opportunities, it is critical that employers, private and public, be very cautious not to hold their employees hostage to inappropriate behavior and the employers be willing to do the right thing instead of just looking to protect those who appointed them to their positions. Many employees at the accuser's level live paycheck to paycheck and have to stay at their place of employment even if it is hostile and discriminatory. Reality check is not in the concern of the ladies commenting on this article but in the fact that we have an issue of values and conduct by one of the most powerful republicans in our state. Is it too late to change my registration from republican to independent? Between Kane on the governor's ticket, McKonkey, and then Leopold's favored council candidates (like Bissett) having a past of demeaning female leaders (Owens vs Bissett 2002) I think the teaparty has it right. Time to vote out all incumbants. We dont have to accept the republican party's assumptions that just because this exec passed some good legislation gives him a pass on really haneous behavior is obsurd. I could go on, but that would be hysterical......
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John Vasulls - Edgewater, md - Karma: Neutral
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This is a taxpayer Issue - 2010-08-25 13:40:49
Call me insentive perhaps, but I dont think tax payer dollars should go to defend anyone accused of this. Due process should be served by the courts and the right of representation should be on the dime of the accussed. Hodgson is not a public defender and if the tax payers have to pay for his consort, they should have to pay for hers as well. The Washington Post and BAlt Sun reports make the story more relevant than Capital reported. Today's Capital article mentioned she lacked funds for prompt legal response. Doesnt sound like anyone is channelling money to this lady at all. So are we to assume that the taxpayers only pay to defend the powerful? This is a horrible prescenet to set for consort offered to county employees. I guess Leopole has the power to do whatever he wants. Voters have rights too. I hope enough get it by November when it is time to clean up our government. Someone that engages in this type of behavior often, as other stories indicate, should have to pay for their own legal defense. If his fellow appointed employees and political hackers know he is innocent, let them pay for his defense if they are so inclined. This taxpayer says you cant pay for only one side of this fight. Either both or none. It is about keeping our justice system fair and the taxpayers money protected. It is not like we have a lot of money to spend on personal lawsuits.
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Daniel Evans - Davidsonville, MD - Karma: Neutral
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Go for the juggler - 2010-08-25 13:07:08
Okay, that's just plain hysterical.
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Salvatorre Bagatelli - Annapolis, MD - Karma: Terrible
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3
Does the accused - 2010-08-25 12:47:25
have any rights? Or should we just hang him now, without the benefit of due process?
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Rick M - Laurel, Md - Karma: Excellent
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Delusional - 2010-08-25 12:46:12
Is it just me or is the age difference between Leopold and his victims make a person want to vomit? What type of messed up person thinks that someone that much younger would want to have a physical relationship with them or would want to have an offline chat about a fellow female co-workers physical traits? It is too hard for me to watch this discourse about such repulsive suggestive behavior. It is not like this is the first time Leopold has been in media trouble for going after the young women. Not that these women were teens, but the age difference - would you really be looking at your grandfather's friends to have a date with? This is literally the age difference in some cases. Repulsive and unacceptable. What is worse is he has the power over all of the agencies reviewing the case. I believe I am not alone in asking for this demented guy to step down and restore integrety to the 4th floor. This is not just a misconduct case, this is really one of the most repulsive stories I have read in a long time -- since the last Leopold sex scandal to be exact. As a Christian I pray for his soul and ask for his resignation immediately. Please dont take down my republican party over your deviant personal habits Mr. Leopold.
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susan moore - Odenton, MD - Karma: Neutral
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victims rights - 2010-08-25 12:16:29
Victims of such demeaning, gross and perverted crimes have a right to go for the juggler. The thought of an old man running around the county offices groping people in the cafeteria, making "bar" comments at work, and having the gull to think this behavior is ok, has me so very enraged. As a woman, I can just imagine the pain and angst to do what she did. Its not like the county fires people on a dime. She would have had to have a significant history of failure to perform her duties to be fired or transferred, when you have people from inspections and permits drunk driving and wrecking cars after visiting XXX places w/ county cars (about 2 years ago). It was his third offense and he still got suspension w/ pay for 6 months. How does office of personnel protect the drunk driving guy but sends the woman upriver? Because the office of personnel has the same boss as the acuser, as does the attorney declaring the case unfounded, as are the "Leopold Angels." This woman was not bad at her job and did not deserve this. If this is how the county is being managed then it is time for a new leader.
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Christina Fennell - Pasadena, MD - Karma: Neutral
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5
Surrounded himself with women - 2010-08-25 12:07:47
OK...lets see...Leopold - male, personal secretary - female, Chief Amin Officer - Male, personal secretary - female, Assistance CAO - Male, personal secretary - Female, Law Officer - Male, Central Services Officer - Male, Personnel Officer - Female, Aging Officer - Male, Cheif of Police - Male, Fire Chief - Male, Director of Inspections and Permits - Female, Planning and Zoning Officer - Male, Director of Public Works - Male, Director of Recreation and Parks - Male, Health Officer - Male....ok, so how does this make him surrounded by females ??
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Jen Rhoades - Annapolis, MD - Karma: Good
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Not for Money - 2010-08-25 11:59:56
I don't believe that the woman truly believes she will get money out of this. I think here greater reward is dong this right before election where the personal toll will be far greater than a cash settlement. Besides, since this is a workplace suit, in essence she is suing the County and no money will come from Leopold's pocket if he is found quilty. I think she is going for the big reward...ruin him politically.
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Fay Hall - Severna Park, md - Karma: Excellent
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Permission to be a woman - 2010-08-25 11:47:47
I will apologize in advance for not commenting based on political strategy or interpretation, or from a legal perspective. I think we need a real person commenting here. As a woman who has been in the workforce for over 25 years, I have seen good, bad and just downright repulsive behavior from male collegues. I thought we had progressed beyond the good ole boys club of "women make this stuff up or deserve it", etc. Do you honestly think any normal woman would put her name thru bashing and all of this for some sorted political purpose for county in which she no longer resides? What an irrational paranoid delusion. Of course a victim of such gross misconduct would want to get even. Ask any victim of this sort. It is normal. What is not, is this pattern of perversion exhibited by a man who has the power over people's paychecks, public safety services, and in the case of employee's, their future. It is not like these employees have jobs outside of the county to go to. The poor economic choices of our council this year saw to that. Lets let women be women here and at least entertain the possibility that it could have happened. Every time a debate over male/female misconducts, we set back the clock of equality progress. I personally dont want to go back to the good ole days of gender discrimination.
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Laura Garden - Linthicum, MD - Karma: Neutral
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Walter - 2010-08-25 11:22:23
You are 100% right. I am a strong believer in campaign reform. We need reform and integrity from both parties. Too often people have blinders on and only scream about stuff the opposing party does.
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Rick M - Laurel, Md - Karma: Excellent
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Dems are not the issue - 2010-08-25 10:54:17
Half of Leopold's appointed staff are democrats. That is not the issue. It may be hard to believe this Rick, but republicans do have a right to criticize the wrong-doing of their own. When you violate ethics, workforce misconduct and gross value misjudgements, you need to step down, period. This is not a political party issue. This is a workplace conduct issue. I am a republican, have been all my life. I have a right to call out the bad guys and gals when they are wrong. I dont want to have my name or my party affiliated with this type of dirt. The only ones coming to his defense are those he appointed.
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Walter Kanell - Severna Park, MD - Karma: Neutral
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MD Democratics - 2010-08-25 10:32:05
are such shinning knights of integrity. NOT!
How about: Parris Glendening, Janet Owens, Zina Pierre, Herman Taylor Jr, OMalley, Carl Snowden, Frank Kratovil, just to name a few
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Rick M - Laurel, Md - Karma: Excellent
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dating collegues - 2010-08-25 10:18:30
There is a difference between private sector dating in the workplace and when it is done on taxpayer's dime. There are really good reasons we have ethics and manuals on conduct in the workplace for government workers. Their level of power and their source of income (taxpayers)make any type of dating between a County Executive and employees absolutely wrong. The fact that the Leopold admin plant "pat magnum" on this comment board calls out dating in the workplace when no mention of movie nights and outings between them were mentioned in the article is proof that Leopold is engaging and pursuing workplace relationships. Work is not the onlyl place to find "action" and the even hint at defending this accusation with such jibberish only furthers the obvious attempt at derailing the real issue. He has no business hitting on county employees, period. If he cant control his urges at work then maybe he needs to get professional psychological help. I dont want my taxpayer dollars going for the county exec's personal dating service either.
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Tricia Marcus - Edgewater, MD - Karma: Neutral
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Republicans self destruct again - 2010-08-25 10:03:09
If I hear one more story of ethics/impropriatous, illegal actions by Maryland Republicans.......How can you be the party of values constitution and justice and have so many elected ones and candidates who lack these fundamental traits? McKonkey, Redmond, Bissett, Kane, Leopold, are just a few and there are at least a dozen more across the state. Ethical and integrety issues are just as important to me as actual crimes and I am always disappointed that the voters keep encouraging them on. These are the poster children of what is wrong with government and why the people need to clean house with their votes. Integrety does count and so do ethics and employer misconduct needs prosecuted and defamed by all means necessary to have justice served.
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Mary Jones - Mayo, MD - Karma: Neutral
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Sandra - 2010-08-25 09:58:23
there is a money trail, she sought money from the county, they told her no way. Now she seeks money thru the court system. I would think if the county truly believed her story they would have paid it and moved on. And frankly most single people who work alot are probably going to date through their work. I met my wife at work. My father met my mother through work. My daughter met her boyfriend through work. I mean that's kinda how things go. So I think the " used the office as his dating pool" is hyperbole.
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Pat Magnum - Arnold, MD - Karma: Excellent
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Not first time - 2010-08-25 09:37:40
Ok, if it were not for the cafeteria story, I might have considered his side, but lets face some facts here. If there were a money trail, the media or Leopold's campaign team would have found it by now to ensure it did not emerge come reelection time and the media would have certainly done due dilligence when story first broke in the news. The only thing that smells is the sweat of a guy who knows that he needs to stop this devient behavior but chooses not to. He gets away with it thanks to the illogical mindset of people like stevens, who sounds like one of Leopolds response team members.
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Sandra Jankins - Mayo, MD - Karma: Neutral
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Inappropriate Attorney comments - 2010-08-25 09:25:02
The County Attorney is paid for by the tax payers and should remain unbias in this matter. Hodgson's leap to political assumptions are inappropriate. If Leopold thinks that, let him come out and say it for himself. To use tax dollars to defend this case is not appropriate. For Leopold's appointed/hired attorney that is salaried by the county to be involved is an attrocity. Let him hire his own attorney. That's what umbrella insurance is for. It is not fair and balanced, that is for certain.
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Daniel Evans - Davidsonville, MD - Karma: Neutral
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Smells - 2010-08-25 09:19:59
of dirty politics, May 09 there was minor talk of this, as I recall many women in his office came to his defense. It went away, she tries to get some money, that did not work now a few months from election, lawsuit time. I hope everyone follows the money here. If I recall and I could be wrong when he was first running for county executive, wasn't there some talk that he was gay? I seem to recall that coming up. Then I am sure we all recall the phone call he is having sex in the backseat of his car at the mall, I mean really people the guy can afford to pay for a room. The reality of it is, attractive people get hired more often and they make about 5% more on average. Is that right and fair no, but it is human nature. I don't dislike Leopold, I think that he can be awkward in social situations, I have seen him in public a few times and he always struck me to be that way. I have sent him a few emails about different issues and I have always gotten action. And I will tell you it was much different that anything I ever got from Ms Owens. Let's face facts men we can be stupid in what we do and say, we can be insensitive in what we say, any wife could probably confirm that, but often times we don't mean anything by it. It did not come out the way we thought it would. I am cautious now wherever I go and guard what I say to women, if you have ever been in a position of being someones boss, I am certain you can find one person to say he's a bad boss, he flirts with women, he only hires good looking people, he's a racist, he only hires women, he only hires men it does not mean that it is true, just that person perceives it that way. Frankly if he said what she claims in the job interview why would you take the job? She could have walked away.
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Pat Magnum - Arnold, MD - Karma: Excellent
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female intimidation - 2010-08-25 09:07:35
My wife was a victim of gender discrimination and intimidation. I know it took her a long time to find the inner strength to follow thru with proceedings. Given the level of bashing this woman received last time she spoke of it, not surprising she took the time needed to follow thru on this. Besides, if I were a victim of such a psychological and possibly physical crime, I would time it for maximum impact to the criminal to ensure maximum justice. Men like some commenting on here need to understand that victims experience a whirlwind of emotions that can make what they do and say seem "suspicious." You can comment on innocense or guilt, fine, but please be respectful enough not to add salt to any wounds the accuser may have or others who have had it happen to them.
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Wes Sutton - Edgewater, MD - Karma: Neutral
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P.I. - 2010-08-25 09:03:44
How about some evidence? right now you have 1 person? If he was truly this way, then there should be more? Did Bill Clinton only mess with 1 female? How about Marion Barry?
I stand by what I said. If this is true, then hang Leopold out to dry and let him take responsibility and consequences for his actions.
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Rick M - Laurel, Md - Karma: Excellent
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Politics is not issue - 2010-08-25 08:51:06
Had the victim went for a large $$ amt she would have been labelled a money grabber instead. Leopold prides himself on having good strong relationships with democrats, having even surrounded himself with them in his cabinet. If she were neglect of her job duties, for example, that would have been good strong evidence of his innocense and it would have cleared his name back when the story first came out. Instead his side cries politics. And Adams is right, we have male bullies on this comment board.
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Grace Smith - Edgewater, md - Karma: Neutral
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Typical and Proven - 2010-08-25 08:37:12
Reading comments from H. Spencer and Rick and Harry T I am very upset. How can these men presume to even have a clue as to what a woman would go thru in a work environment even half as bad as the victim discribed. These comments are a good example of the type of mantality many women have to deal with in the work place. Clearly these commentors are Leopold's friends and staff. No real man would make blanketly demeaning comments like those without seeing the evidence.
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P.l. Adams - Davidsonville, md - Karma: Neutral
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Position - 2010-08-25 08:22:26
I appreciate Leopold's humanity but doubt that he is unaware of the power presumed to be held by a county executive by his employees and the general public. This is not an isolated story either. No truly good leader would consider such a thing. This guy has some serious deviant personal issues.
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Ed Straus - Edgewater, MD - Karma: Neutral
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Herbert - 2010-08-25 01:33:26
Something qualifies as funny when BOTH parties laugh. Bullying rarely involves physical acts, it involves intimidating . . . . often excused by "I was just joking." I'm sorry .... NOT FUNNY.
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K F - Severna Park, MD - Karma: Good
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whatever - 2010-08-24 23:16:01
No one is putting a gun to your head forcing you to work for him. Unless you are going to tell me that he locked people up in a basement and performed sex acts, I'm just not that concerned. A person is still allowed to have a sense of humor even about sex.
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Herbert Spencer - St. Margaret's, MD - Karma: Terrible
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5
Its the basic culture... - 2010-08-24 23:12:53
...of what this municipality has, is, and always will be. From top to bottom. I had a job with aaco a while ago, and although no one asked me about boobs, I got messed with a lot, grabbed, shoved, visciously pranked. So much that I was having trouble restraining myself from physically attacking my offenders. I finally had to resign due to the retaliatory duty shift after I complained to my supervisor AND union. There wasn't a lawyer who wanted to take up for me, however.
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William H - annapolis, md - Karma: Excellent
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Multiple charges? - 2010-08-24 20:28:32
'Reign of terror' indicates more than Ms. Hamner. "virtually all of the women who worked in the county executive's office were terrified and terrorized by Leopold," Sounds like there will be mltiple witnesses and victims. The article also says Leopold surrounded himself with female employees, so it also seems he was hiring, yet descriminating? If there was battery Ms. Hamner should have contacted the police, immediately. Attempting to negotiate a settlement....interesting. Filing a suit a year and half later... may be a little suspect. Hopefully the truth will come out quickly.
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harry trampolini - severna park, MD - Karma: Excellent
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5
Like I Said - 2010-08-24 18:53:20
this is not a book that hasn't been written before. Give it a rest.
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Steve Gundersen - Annapolis, Md - Karma: Terrible
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pure politics - 2010-08-24 18:34:22
and not even subtlety executed. Whether you like Leopold or not, this is just cheap politics having nothing to do with issues
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Dave Moore - Arnold, MD - Karma: Terrible
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Leopold - 2010-08-24 18:21:06
Again!
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Anthony Forrest - crownsville, MD - Karma: Excellent
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Bear-Bear - 2010-08-24 17:49:59
would have never have let this come to a lawsuit. Bear-Bear would have created an environment where love,justice, and understanding ruled the day.
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sidney janoski - edgewater, md - Karma: Excellent
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A Public Official - 2010-08-24 15:54:15
Who abuses his power and takes liberties with his female staffers. I'm Shocked.
Not.
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Steve Gundersen - Annapolis, Md - Karma: Terrible
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Pray, John Leopold... - 2010-08-24 15:53:50
Pray someone shoots another dog in a dog park so no one will pay attention to this story.
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Ben Dover - Annapolis, MD - Karma: Neutral
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If there is any truth - 2010-08-24 15:13:06
here, then let Leopold hang. This thing has been floating around since 2007. I suspect if there was real evidence and proof into the charges, then the lawyer would be jumping up and down, demanding justice and mega bucks for his client. Based on this article and some of the other information previously written, sounds nothing more than sour grapes and somebody trying to cause problems.
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Rick M - Laurel, Md - Karma: Excellent
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Leopold sued - 2010-08-24 14:38:18
Anne Arundel politics at their finest. This story smells soooo bad of political stale stew that it is just sickening.
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Robin Stanek - Churchton, MD - Karma: Excellent
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Leopold - 2010-08-24 14:36:06
His dispicible behavior has been tolerated for far too long. He's abused his power since he stepped into office, and it's time voters showed him the door. I'm surprised Ms. Hamner (whom I do not know) has asked for so little.
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Mary MacK - Annapolis, MD - Karma: Good
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