Gloria Allred has San Diego mayor Bob Filner in her sights after a number of women have come forward accusing him of sexual harassment.
On Monday the famous attorney announced that she is filing lawsuit against the former Democratic congressman after allegations surfaced that he has kissed and groped a number of women. Allred is filing the suit on behalf of her client, an employee for the city of San Diego.
Filner’s accuser has been anonymous until this point, but joined Allred at the press conference on Monday afternoon.
Filner has admitted that he “failed to fully respect the women who work for me and with me,” but said he has never sexually harassed anyone.
“As someone who has spent a lifetime fighting for equality for all people, I am embarrassed to admit that I have failed to fully respect the women who work for me and with me, and that at times I have intimidated them,” he said in an apology to constituents .
Filner added: “You have every right to be disappointed in me. I only ask that you give me an opportunity to prove I am capable of change, so that the vision I have for our city’s future can be realized.” He gave no indication in the statement that he would consider stepping down. He also noted that he and his City Hall staff would take anti-sexual harassment training.”
Filner has also resisted increasing calls to step down. One of those calling on him to leave office is former city councilwoman and onetime supporter Donna Frye, who said Bob Filner should vacate his office based on several credible complaints.
Gloria Allred has taken on a number of other high-profile cases, including representing Sharon Bialek, who accused then-GOP presidential candidate Herman Cain of sexual harassment. She said she plans to file suit both against Bob Filner and the city of San Diego.