Former campaign intern accuses Scott Stringer of groping
A woman claims that mayoral candidate and current city Comptroller Scott Stringer groped her when she worked as an unpaid intern for his campaign for public advocate in 2001, according to the accuser’s lawyer.
Attorney Patricia Pastor said her client — who was not named
— claims that Stringer “groped her, repeatedly touched her sexually without her
consent, made multiple sexual advances toward her which she rejected.”
Stringer allegedly told the woman “not to tell anyone about
the sexual misconduct and offered to get her a role as District Leader.”
“It’s unfortunately all too common that women report having
been touched sexually without consent, and often men who engage this way are in
a position of power and influence over the woman. I have great respect for
women who choose to say, ‘Enough is enough,'” Pastor said in a statement.
Stringer is considered a top-tier candidate in the
Democratic primary for mayor and any creditable claims of sexual misconduct
doom his chances to run City Hall.
Stringer issued a statement Tuesday night denying the
allegation.
“I firmly believe that all survivors of harassment have the
right to come forward. I will reserve further comment until this person has had
the opportunity to share their story,” Stringer said.
But Stringer added, “For now, let me say without
equivocation: these allegations are untrue and do not reflect my interactions
with anyone, including any woman or member of my staff.”
The accuser is expected to appear at a press conference
outside the comptroller’s office Wednesday morning to discuss the alleged abuse
from 20 years ago.
Pastor put out a press statement Tuesday night that included
comments from women’s rights advocates.
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