The Vermilion County Board has voted to temporarily remove one of its members from chairman of the Board’s Health and Education Committee. Jerry Hawker has been the target of sexual harassment allegations in a complaint that was filed by the Director of Vermilion County Animal Regulations, Kasey Snyder. Several people lined-up to voice support for Snyder, including former Vermilion County State’s Attorney Richard Doyle…
{AUDIO: ‘’If I were State’s Attorney, I would be very concerned about what happens if you don’t take reasonable action against credible accusations because it does leave you open to litigation. Not that I have any basis for saying it – because she has never said that to me in any way, shape or form.’’}
(Former State’s Attorney Richard Doyle)
Alex Gale, who resigned earlier as Vermilion County Regional Airport Manager, also spoke in support of Snyder…
{AUDIO: ‘’I’m standing here in front of you today on behalf of Kasey Snyder and the countless other women in our community who have been – and are currently – being marginalized, but cannot speak their truth for fear of their livelihoods and for fear of retaliation. I implore each of and every one of you to be part of Vermilion County’s success, and to take action in support of women.’’}
Hawker has denied any wrongdoing, but says he understands that for liability reasons it was probably prudent for him to step aside as the investigation continues…
{AUDIO – ‘’I had even relayed a message to chairman Baughn this morning at 7:00 a.m. that I would voluntarily step aside while the investigation is going on because this investigation has multiple prongs now. How messages – or how things were leaked from the County Board Office, and a lot of different things.’’}
(Board member Jerry Hawker – in tan vest)
After the board’s vote to temporarily remove Hawker as chairman of the Health and Education Committee, he said he understands…
{AUDIO – ‘’We could have avoided all of this tonight if Chairman Baughn would have just announced that I had agreed to step aside. But I honestly think that he enjoys the drama.’’}
Board Chairman Larry Baughn said he had ‘’no comment’’ as the investigation into the allegations continues.
