Politics

Woman Goes Public with Sexual Harassment Claims Against San Diego Mayor

Filner's former communications director files suit

|

Mayor Bob Filner's former communications director has filed a sexual harassment lawsuit against the leader of the nation's eighth-largest city.

Irene McCormack came forward Monday and said Filner had asked her to work without wearing panties, demanded kisses and dragged her around in a headlock while whispering sexual advances.

McCormack, who demanded Filner's immediate resignation, said she resigned in June at a staff meeting after a deputy chief of staff complained to the mayor that his behavior toward women was wrong and possibly illegal.

Lena Lewis, a spokeswoman for Filner, did not immediately reply to a phone call or email seeking comment.