Schuylkill Commissioner Halcovage Vehemently Denies Sexual Harassment, Discrimination Allegations

Schuylkill County Commissioner George Halcovage released a statement on Friday “vehemently” denying the allegations of sexual harassment and discrimination against him.

Earlier Friday, according to a report in the Pottsville RepublicanHerald, First Assistant Schuylkill County Solicitor Glenn Roth released a statement today regarding the “serious” allegations lodged against Halcovage, who sits as chairman of the Board of Commissioners.

“Many of the allegations appear credible,” Roth is quoted as stating.

Roth said the county just concluded an investigation into the allegations but didn’t provide many details.

He did say, however, “It’s a personnel matter, so I won’t be able to be more specific.”

That hints at the allegations coming from inside the Schuylkill County Courthouse. A “personnel matter” would be one employee alleging something against another.

Schuylkill County Commissioner Halcovage Vehemently Denies Misconduct Allegations

Halcovage responded later Friday. In his statement (to WBRE-TV), he says, “I have been advised that several county employees have filed complaints with the County alleging that I engaged in misconduct and they have threatened to file lawsuits in court.”

“I understand the complaints to allege sexual harassment and discrimination. I vehemently deny engaging in any sexual harassment or any type of discrimination whatsoever,” he adds.

The Commissioner also provided some details into the investigation process through his statement. Halcovage says he’s fully cooperated with the investigation that the county says wrapped on Thursday.

He says he did not see the allegations against him and could not review the complaints. Halcovage says, “I was asked to respond to questions as part of the County’s confidential, internal investigation of the complaints, and I have promptly and fully cooperated with the County’s investigation.”

Roth says the county will release further details on its investigation next week.

“I look forward to the conclusion of that investigation,” Halcovage says. “Given the pending investigation and threatened lawsuits, I will not comment further. In the meantime, I will continue to proudly do the hard work necessary to serve the people of Schuylkill County.”

Calls for Commissioner Halcovage to Resign

One top political official says if the investigation proves Halcovage is guilty of misconduct, he should resign.

Schuylkill County Republican Party chairman Dan Daub released this statement to The Canary on Friday, prior to Halcovage’s statement being released.

Daub says, “The Republican Party represents fairness and opportunity for all, and has zero tolerance for individuals misusing their office in any way. If credible serious allegations have been made, and affirmed by investigation, I call upon Commissioner Halcovage to resign and focus his energy on his personal situation.”

UPDATE: 

• Solicitor Says Schuylkill County Commissioner Halcovage Violated Sexual Harassment Policy

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