The head of the Chicago Park District Monday announced the “emergency suspension” of two “high-level” district employees, as well as seven others, in the wake of an investigation into a long-standing culture of sexual harassment and assault targeting female lifeguards.
Without naming them, Chicago Park District Supt. Mike Kelly said the high-level district employees are the assistant director of beaches and pools, and the beaches and pools manager. Both were placed on suspension Aug. 13, based on information Kelly said he received from Park District Inspector General Elaine Little.
In total, the district has taken disciplinary action against 42 employees since an investigation began in March 2020.
“I understand the frustration with the time it has taken to look into these complaints,” Kelly said, talking to reporters at the South Shore Cultural Center. “Investigations never happen fast enough, but I assure every person who has been impacted by this case that this is top of mind to me.”
About six female lifeguards at park district pools and beaches were sexually harassed and assaulted by male co-workers, with some of the harassment taking place in front of children, according to an internal investigation made public earlier this summer.
The explosive allegations, including an attempted rape, were in a report that hints at a cover-up.
All three male lifeguards who were accused no longer work for the park district. Two resigned during the investigation to avoid being fired. The third resigned earlier this year.
Of the six victims, two have filed police reports. The others, including the victim of the attempted rape, did not file criminal charges, fearing retaliation.
Kelly also announced the creation of a new “office of protection” to allow for better reporting and assessment of any future complaints.
Chicago Park District Supt. Mike Kelly made the announcement during a news conference Monday at the South Shore Beach House.Anthony Vazquez/Sun-Times