4 Women Accuse Former WA State Rep Of Sexual Harassment: Report

OLYMPIA, WA - Former state representative Brendan Williams has been accused of sexual assault and harassment by four different women, including a member of the Olympia City Council, according to a new Associated Press report. Williams, who is now CEO of the New Hampshire Health Care Association, told the AP he has never engaged in workplace harassment.

On Tuesday, the Northwest News Network and The Tacoma News Tribune reported that multiple women had suffered sexual harassment while working at the state capitol. Williams commented on that story on Facebook, the AP reported, supporting the women who came forward.

That caused Lindsey Grad, an SEIU legislative director, to share that Williams had harassed her about a decade ago. Grad claims Williams touched her legs under a table during a work dinner, the AP reported.

Williams denied the allegations to the AP and threatened legal action against his accusers or "any media outlet publishing" their claims. Williams served in the state House between 2005 and 2010 and represented Olympia. On his personal website, Williams touts legislative accomplishments including a law "[c]reating sexual assault protection orders." In another email, the AP reported, Williams again denied the allegations and wrote "[it] appears I upset people outside work. Heartbroken over that."

Patch contacted the New Hampshire Health Care Association and asked whether Williams was facing any disciplinary measures. Director of Communications Kristin Schmidt said the organization has "no comment at this time." Patch has reached out to Williams for comment and we will update this story when we hear back.

Grad's admission prompted Samantha Kersul to share a claim that Williams had forcibly kissed her at an Olympia bar in 2009. Former state House intern Emma Shepard and Olympia Councilwoman Jessica Bateman also shared stories of unwanted advances. They shared their stories with the AP and on social media.

"I shared my experience now so that others know they are not alone. Together we will stand with each other and against predatory behaviors such as this," Bateman wrote on Facebook Wednesday night. "I am proud of and grateful for the other courageous women who have come forward and shared their experiences. Your bravery will no doubt help others. It has already helped me. I believe you. I support you."

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