PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — State Rep. Diego Hernandez defended himself to the House Committee on Conduct after an investigative report came out accusing him of workplace harassment.
Hernandez, a Democrat from East Portland, said in the meeting the report was inaccurate and that powerful people want to push him out of his position.
“I appeared guilty before any due process,” he said.
The independent investigation was done. In the report, 5 people were interviewed about his alleged behavior, that he made 3 women with whom he had consensual relations uncomfortable during or after the relationship ended.
His attorney read his statement: “I am not here to make excuses. I take full responsibility for my actions in making anyone feel uncomfortable. These were offenses which I regret, which I can learn and grow from to be become a better, more conscious man.”
But he said the process is seriously flawed, the report is misleading and evidence was ignored.
“This investigation has not been fair, timely nor have I been given the opportunity to speak the full truth,” he said.
After listening to the investigators and statements from Hernandez and one of the women, the committee voted on a number of motions.
“The committee has determined that the respondent was verbally and physically threatening during his relationship with Subject Two,” the committee said.
The next hearing for the committee is on Tuesday where they will review more testimony.
17 organizations want ‘bold, swift’ action
There are now more calls for justice against a state lawmaker from East Portland who stands accused of workplace harassment.
Seventeen organizations and more than 120 people signed an open letter to the Oregon State House demanding Rep. Diego Hernandez be held accountable for his actions. A report released 10 days ago concluded Hernandez became controlling and abusive after his relationship with 3 women ended.
The women said he harassed them and made them fear for their jobs.
The joint letter said: “The investigative report is complete. There is no reason to wait. Please recommend blod and swift action in order to protect people from harassment, intimidation and abuse of power at the hands of elected officials.”
The organizations signing the letter are APANO, Emerge Oregon, Family Forward Action, Forward Together Action, NARAL Pro-Choice Oregon, Next Up & Next Up Action Fund, Oregon AFL-CIO, Oregon Education Association, Oregon Food Bank, Oregon League of Conservation Voters (OLCV), Oregon Working Families Party, Our Oregon, Our Revolution, PCUN, Planned Parenthood Advocates of Oregon, SEIU Local 49, SEIU Local 503.