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| Conn. Commission Hears Prison Sexual Harassment Complaints |
| By Associated Press |
| Published: 10/07/2002 |
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Connecticut's Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities held a fact-finding hearing last week to determine whether sexual harassment is a problem in the state prison system. About 80 people, including female officers who claim they've been harassed by their male superiors and co-workers, turned out for the first session. The hearing is part of the CHRO's process for determining if the Correction Department's affirmative action office properly handled sexual harassment complaints. Fifteen female prison officers filed lawsuits against several Correction Department officials last month, claiming the officials didn't do enough to stop sexual harassment by male co-workers. The female officers claim Armstrong and other high-ranking officials ignored harassment reports, cultivating a 'code of silence' about sexual harassment within the department. Correction officials say the agency does not tolerate sexual harassment and they have responded to all complaints brought to their attention. The department requires sexual harassment prevention training for all new employees, as well as refresher courses for older employees. Statements have been attached to employees' paychecks reminding them about the policy and a video is shown to workers. The DOC also is working with the Permanent Commission on the Status of Women to revamp its policies. In July, Armstrong said the agency planned to hire an independent consultant to review harassment cases. Disciplinary action has also been taken against some supervisors. |

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