"In the report, the law firm of Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo found Callender sent sexual comments and photos - such as a photo of his clothed crotch area - and made intimidating statements to workers. The investigators also found that Callender - who is also a top executive in the NAACP - was spending his time at Valley Water working on NAACP business."
"Callender went on leave on Dec. 16, 2024, days after Salam Baqleh, a labor union leader representing most of the agency's 850 employees, publicly demanded an unnamed executive be placed on administrative leave after a lower employee named the boss in a formal misconduct complaint. The union cited fears of retaliation against the employee due to the unnamed leader's stature and power over the agency."
"Callender's attorney, Lori Costanzo, said the most damaging allegations were cherry picked by the investigators. She said his comments with sexual references were 'taken out of context.'"
Rick Callender, Valley Water's $716,000-a-year CEO, was fired following an investigation by lawyers at Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo that found he sexually harassed employees through inappropriate comments, photos including images of his clothed crotch area, and intimidating statements. The investigation also revealed Callender spent work time on NAACP business and hosted NAACP events at Valley Water property, though investigators noted unclear policies regarding dual roles. Callender went on leave in December 2024 after a union leader demanded action following a misconduct complaint, and subsequently accepted a separation agreement ending his employment. His attorney claims damaging allegations were cherry-picked and taken out of context.
#sexual-harassment #corporate-misconduct #executive-accountability #workplace-investigation #conflict-of-interest
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