For Immediate Release
June 20, 2023
Contact: Chantal Fuller, Communications Director
202-355-8431
cfuller@dccouncil.gov  

                                               Statement from Councilmember Henderson Regarding John Falcicchio Sexual Harassment Investigation Summary of Findings

WASHINGTON, DC -- After reviewing the report released by the Mayor’s Office of Legal Counsel regarding sexual harassment allegations against former Chief of Staff and Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development (DMPED) John Falcicchio, Councilmember Christina Henderson released the following statement:

“The timing of the release of this investigation summary speaks volumes regarding the handling of this matter by the Bowser Administration. From the beginning, when the public was told that the former Deputy Mayor was simply resigning to pursue opportunities in the private sector, to the release of this report late on the Saturday night of a 3-day holiday weekend, it has been difficult to trust in the thoroughness of this internal investigation.

The report substantiates serious allegations of sexual harassment and confirms evidence of deeply concerning behavior and workplace culture within DMPED under the former Deputy Mayor’s leadership. I await the full findings from the second investigation that is currently underway which will provide further insight on whether inappropriate behavior by the former Deputy Mayor was a pattern of practice and if the culture of DMPED contributed to the permissibility of such behavior by the Deputy Mayor or any other staff. All DC government employees deserve a work environment that is free of harassment and in which they are empowered to report any inappropriate behavior that they have experienced or witnessed without fear of retaliation.”

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