DENVER — Denver mayoral challenger Jamie Giellis went on the attack Tuesday, accusing incumbent Mayor Michael Hancock of fostering a "poisonous culture" of sexual harassment that has cost taxpayers nearly $1.5 million in settlements and legal fees during Hancock's eight years in office.
"As your mayor, I will be implementing ethics reforms to end the culture of sexual harassment in city hall that is out of control under Michael Hancock," said Giellis, who was flanked by supporters at a news conference at her campaign headquarters.
Giellis pointed to a chart prepared by her campaign listing sums paid to settle sexual harassment claims brought against a former top Hancock aide, as well as additional sexual harassment and misconduct complaints brought by three female firefighters.
None of the settlements were for incidents directly involving Hancock, though the victim in one case — a former member of Hancock's security detail — has said she believes Hancock sexually harassed her in 2012 by sending inappropriate text messages to her.