Advertisement

Joe Negron orders investigation of Latvala sexual assault allegations

The Senate president called the allegations "atrocious and horrendous."
 
Published Nov. 3, 2017

Senate President Joe Negron ordered an investigation into allegations published by Politico Florida that his budget chair, Sen. Jack Latvala, sexually harassed or groped six women who worked with him in the Capitol.

Negron issued a statement at about 6:30 p.m. Friday.

"Today there has been a news report alleging that members of the Senate Professional Staff and visitors to the Senate offices were sexually assaulted. These allegations are atrocious and horrendous. As Senate President, my first priority is the safety of our staff and visitors. I have ordered an immediate investigation of these allegations, which will be led by our Senate General Counsel Dawn Roberts. Ms. Roberts will work with our Human Resources Professional Staff in the Office of Legislative Services to ensure a full and fair investigation. I would request and encourage anyone with information regarding today's report to confidentially come forward to the General Counsel's Office, the President's Office, or the Office of Legislative Services. 

"The Senate has zero tolerance for sexual harassment, sexual assault, or misconduct of any kind and takes this issue with the utmost seriousness.  Any allegation will be immediately and fully investigated."