Most employers are well aware of their obligation to promptly and thoroughly investigate complaints of sexual harassment. Although the right to an adequate investigation is most commonly associated with the alleged victim, a recent decision by the Second Circuit Court of Appeals (covering New York, Connecticut, and Vermont) illustrates that an employer's failure to investigate can lead to claims by the accused harasser as well.
In Sassaman v. Gamache, no. 07-2721-cv (2d Cir. May 22, 2009), the plaintiff (Sassaman) was discharged after a female coworker accused him of sexual harassment.
Please see full ASAP for more information.
Please see full publication below for more information.
