Detailed NYS AG Investigation Confirms Extensive Sexual Harassment

NOW-NY STATEMENT

August 3, 2021 – New York, NY – Upon the release of the Attorney General’s investigation of multiple and repeated sexual harassment and assault, there is no question that Governor Cuomo is unfit and can no longer serve the people of New York We call on Mr. Cuomo to immediately step down. 

“It’s over, the Governor must step down,” said Sonia Ossorio, president of NOW-NY. “He’s had his due process. It was a thorough investigation that ended in a devastating report that confirmed repeated sexual harassment and a toxic work environment.”

This report is far worse than expected, and under no scenario can the Governor stay in his position. It is clear the Cuomo administration did not follow their own policies and further went on to discredit and retaliate against the women harmed. This is a matter that must be further addressed.

“The Governor should do the right thing and immediately resign, and save the state and the public from any further wasted energy that distracts from helping New Yorkers in this challenging time,” Ossorio said. 

As part of the New York Attorney General’s investigation, the Governor was found to have sexually harassed multiple women in violation of local and state law. The report documented that the Governor engaged in unwanted groping, kissing, hugging, and inappropriate and sexually suggestive comments and fostered a toxic workplace and climate of fear that normalized harassment and abuse. In the course of the investigation, 179 individuals were interviewed and tens of thousands of documents were reviewed. Attorneys heard from 11 victims and found clear evidence to support their allegations. Nine of these complainants are or were employed by the state.

“After MeToo, anyone who didn’t reflect and realize the world around them had changed has set themselves up for self destruction,” said Ossorio. “This is the reality.”

NOW-NYC ignites change for the women and girls of New York. We advance laws, promote women in politics, fight for reproductive justice, challenge discrimination and violence against women, and act NOW.

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