Case Handled by The Derek Smith Law Group Attorney Catherine Lowry
Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania
The Derek Smith Law Group secured a $4.9 million settlement on behalf of multiple employees of Schuylkill County who came forward with allegations of sexual harassment, assault, and retaliation at the hands of a top-ranking public official. As alleged, these survivors, who worked in various county departments, endured a years-long pattern of abuse, systemic failure, and retaliation after reporting the misconduct.
Case Summary
Several Schuylkill County employees bravely stepped forward with allegations of sexual harassment, assault, and inappropriate conduct against a then-sitting county commissioner. The women described a hostile work environment that persisted despite internal complaints, and they reported being subjected to retaliation, isolation, and character attacks after speaking up.
- Unwanted sexual advances by a high-ranking public official
- Threats and intimidation after refusing those advances
- Retaliatory job reassignments and diminished responsibilities
- A lack of corrective action by county leadership and HR systems
Despite escalating their concerns through proper channels, the internal mechanisms failed to protect them. Their allegations ultimately became public and were the subject of widespread media attention.Shape, Picture
Legal Action and Settlement
With the representation of The Derek Smith Law Group attorney Catherine Lowry, the survivors filed a civil suit seeking justice for the physical, emotional, and professional harm they experienced. The case culminated in a $4.9 million settlement approved by the Schuylkill County Board of Commissioners.
This settlement offers not just financial relief but a public acknowledgment of the harm done — and the failures of systems meant to protect workers from harassment and abuse.
“They tried to silence them,” said The Derek Smith Law Group in a public statement. “But we made sure they were heard.”Shape, Picture
Legal Impact
This case is a powerful example of what happens when survivors refuse to be intimidated—and when institutions fail to act. It underscores the importance of independent legal representation in holding public entities accountable, especially in cases where internal reporting structures fail.Shape, Picture
Contact The Derek Smith Law Group
If you’ve been harassed, assaulted, or retaliated against at work — even within government systems — you are not alone. The Derek Smith Law Group is here to fight for you.
📞 Call 800.827.2209 for a free, confidential consultation.
