Michigan Department of Corrections Protects Staff Accused of Sexually Harassing Subordinates

Sexual harassment is a problem for Corrections Agencies throughout the country with more and more claims being made about the culture of workplace harassment and alleged department cover-ups. The Michigan Department of Corrections has a long history of issues with harassment, so much so that the department took on reform measures decades ago to address the problem. According to several current and former staff, these measures have not brought about much needed change.

Considering that, according to a free press investigation, there were 186 sexual harassment complaints filed between 2015 and 2017, it would appear that reform is still a work in progress or likely at a standstill. Female staff members claim that not only are they subject to harassment and discrimination, but, harassers are often not disciplined appropriately if at all, and victims are retaliated against for filing complaints. What's interesting is that while the department says that they are taking a strong stance on sexual harassment, they refuse to identify those who are found to have engaged in these activities.

The Michigan Department of Corrections allows anonymity for those who are found to have harassed staff. Furthermore, they will not release any information on what actions have been taken in response to harassment claims. Clearly if the topic is the subject of an ongoing investigation, the department has every right to keep information quiet. However, if a staff member is found to be guilty of workplace harassment and discrimination and the administration remains silent about what disciplinary actions are or are not implemented against the employee, this gives the department the option to selectively implement policy and protect those who victimize their subordinates.

We will update with any additional information on this story, and as always, if you have anything to share please contact us.

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