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Los Angeles Councilman Accused of Sexual Harassment

March 11, 2014 Legal Team

San Diego isn’t the only city that needs to “keep it classy” in the words of Anchorman, Ron Burgundy. The city of Los Angeles is facing accusations of sexual harassment, namely toward Councilman Jose Huizar.

A judge set a November 10th trial date for the case that was filed by a former aide, Francine Godoy. Godoy, who began working for Councilman Huizar in 2006, alleges that the politician repeatedly approached her for “sexual favors.” When she refused, Godoy claims Huizar executed a systematic campaign of retaliation and harassment against her. Godoy’s attorney, Michael Eisenberg, is asserting that the plaintiff has more than 20 witnesses to call to the stand.

Huizar, however, is claiming a different story. He alleges that he and Godoy were in a mutually consensual relationship. The councilman has declared Godoy’s claims as “false and malicious.”

Godoy began working for Huizar seven years ago, earning approximately $47,000 a year. Upon her departure, Godoy was making in excess of $132,000 a year.

Huizar is also currently named in a personal injury lawsuit. A $185,000 settlement is in the works for a former police officer Huizar rear-ended in a car accident in 2012. Huizar was driving a city vehicle, therefore, the council is currently involved with settlement negotiations.