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Report on Fairfax Co. Fire Dept. harassment investigation released

The investigation found that a number of women still have complaints despite a few improvements toward equality for women in the workplace

By FireRescue1 Staff

FAIRFAX COUNTY, Va. — An investigation into sexual harassment at a fire department found that several women still have issues with the workplace despite some improvements.

WUSA9 reported that the investigation into Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department was launched after Kathleen Stanley resigned as women’s program officer with a scathing letter to Chief Richard Bowers that outlined the department’s toleration for sexual harassment.

The report said that although some improvements have been made, several women are still reporting issues within the department. Chief Bowers said he has plans in place to make the department comfortable for all firefighters.

Chief Bowers announced his retirement after the husband of firefighter Nicole Mittendorf, who died by suicide after being harassed by colleagues, requested that he resign in the midst of Stanley’s accusations.