Md. Delegate Reportedly Being Investigated For Sexual Misconduct
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (WJZ) -- One of Baltimore City's most prominent and powerful politicians is under investigation for sexual misconduct, our media partner The Baltimore Sun reports. Del. Curt Anderson denies the allegations – including some made by current lawmakers.
The Sun reports an independent investigator has been looking into allegations from five women since April and has conducted interviews with them.
The allegations include inappropriate touching and comments on the House floor – and an alleged sexual assault that happened 14 years ago – but was only recently reported to police.
The lawyer and former broadcaster has served on and off in the General Assembly for 35 years and has chaired the Baltimore delegation.
Valerie, who asked WJZ not to use her last name, said she has worked on Anderson's campaigns for decades – and never witnessed any sexual impropriety.
"That is not the Curt Anderson that I know and have known for 38 years," she told WJZ. "It's out of his character, plain and simple to me."
The most serious allegation is a 2004 sexual assault. WJZ obtained the redacted police report, which the victim filed in December 2017. It's the first allegation to come forward.
The police report describes in graphic detail how Anderson forced himself on a staffer in his office. The victim claims he performed a sex act on her against her will.
The victim also said she reported the assault to legislative Human Resources at the time but little to nothing was done. According to the police report, the HR representative "assumed an incident report was generated."
The victim told The Sun she filed the police report in part because of the #MeToo movement.
Anderson has not responded to WJZ but told The Sun, "This incident never happened."
The Sun also reports two current lawmakers allege inappropriate conduct on the House floor. The incidents happened in 2015.
Anderson reportedly told one female lawmaker "I'd do you" and kissed another lawmaker on the mouth. Anderson denied both of those allegations to The Sun.
The House recently approved stronger policies against sexual harassment for lawmakers and lobbyists.
Ashley Beckles is one of Anderson's constituents. She says he helped her get college scholarships, and she's stunned by the allegations.
"People who are in positions like that – whether they like it are not – they are role models," she said.
Anderson told The Sun the Ethics Committee is doing exactly what it's supposed to do and they should investigate this thoroughly. He also noted he has not been criminally charged and has not been charged with an ethics violation.
Neither he nor committee representatives responded to WJZ's request for comment.
Anderson remains on the primary ballot for Baltimore's 43rd District, serving the northeast part of the city.
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