The Shapiro administration is under scrutiny for how it handled a sexual misconduct complaint concerning a cabinet member. This scrutiny comes after a reporter requested information about the investigation, which might end up costing taxpayers.
According to a court transcript obtained by The Center Square, an attorney for the Governor’s Office stated that internal emails tied to the complaint were deleted, aligning with standard records retention schedules.
Thomas Howell, the administration’s attorney, clarified in a February hearing that these retention schedules are public knowledge. He mentioned that emails from a former employee’s account were disposed of once deemed unnecessary.
On the other hand, Thomas Breth, representing Broad + Liberty, pointed out that emails from former employees are generally kept for three to eight years, whereas the emails in question were only two years old.
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The Center Square spoke with one of the attorneys representing the reporter who sought the communications. This attorney expressed shock at the administration’s admissions, which have led to a request for sanctions due to potential violations of state record retention laws.
The issue dates back to late 2023, when a request was made for emails sent between March 2 and March 10, 2023, a period significant because it was the last week the aide worked after filing the complaint.
The complaint involved Mike Vereb, Shapiro’s former secretary of Legislative Affairs, who allegedly retaliated against the staffer for reporting inappropriate comments. Vereb stepped down six months later, just before a $295,000 settlement funded by taxpayers was revealed. If sanctions are imposed, the administration may have to pay Broad + Liberty’s court fees.
When questioned at a news conference, Governor Josh Shapiro stated he hadn’t read the report from Broad + Liberty. He expressed confidence in his administration’s adherence to document retention policies. Despite his assurances, some remain skeptical, given his long-standing professional ties with Vereb.
One of the loudest critics, President Pro Tempore Kim Ward, has been vocal about her disbelief in Shapiro’s claims of ignorance. She argues that his explanation is “unimaginable” and “simply not believable.” This tension has added strain to the relationship between Ward and Shapiro as they navigate legislative challenges.
Ward further commented that any attention from the administration seemed aimed at self-protection. She criticized Shapiro for not taking appropriate action when he had the chance. Ward emphasized that leadership qualities and office culture are established by those at the top.
Dealing with sexual misconduct allegations is complex for governments across the political spectrum, as noted by the National Women’s Defense League. Their recent report highlights ongoing issues with public officials facing allegations. The report touches on how some politicians manage to avoid consequences as they move to higher positions.
Since 2013, allegations have been made against five former state lawmakers, including both Democrats and Republicans. Only two of these lawmakers, Zabel and Ellis, resigned following the accusations. A survey in the report indicates that 43% of lawmakers believe current policies are adequate to prevent misconduct.
The report also identifies a trend where culpability often extends beyond the accused individuals to high-ranking staff members in multiple states. This pattern raises questions about accountability in political circles. The challenging nature of these situations underscores the need for effective policies and leadership that prioritizes ethical standards.
