Allegations of Racial, Gender Discrimination + Sexual Harassment in Philadelphia Police Department Causes Commissioner to Resign

BTN STAFF

Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney announced that the city police commissioner Richard Ross resigned. “New allegations of sexual harassment as well as gender and racial discrimination among the rank and file have recently been brought to my attention, Kenny said. “While those allegations do not accuse Commissioner Ross of harassment, I do ultimately believe his resignation is in the best interest of the Department.”

Two female police officers Cpl. Audra McCowan and Patrol Officer Jennifer Allen filed a complaint stating that they were subjected to  “continuous and on-going” sexual harassment and discrimination from within the department. Those allegations caused the mayor to say he doesn’t  believe the Police Department has taken the necessary actions to address the underlying cultural issues that too often negatively impact women—especially women of color.” Deputy Commissioner Christine Coulter will be Acting Commissioner until the city finds Ross’s replacement.

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