Robert Doherty

To the editor:

While I vehemently disagree with the decision in this case, I accept the jury’s verdict. Plainly, this is how our judicial system works. 

I stand by my actions and remain proud of my defense of a female county employee, who by her own testimony and deposition, was wrongly attacked and insulted by another County Legislator.  We allowed the mistreatment and abuse of Ms. Brown to be politicized, and through this trial the victimization continued. 

What will it take to believe women? What message are we sending to the female employees, professionals, and residents of and in the County? Why are we saying, through this case,  that they are to tolerate all levels of abuse but their male superiors cannot be admonished for perpetrating it? Are Mr. Alvarez’s feelings and reputation more important than hers? Why are we accepting an environment where victims are blamed and shamed?  The employee in question should be a success story, not a cautionary tale. She climbed the ranks from Registered Nurse to Commissioner and until her encounters with Mr. Alvarez was on track for a long and successful career in her hometown. She left her career and the County behind, refusing to sustain abuse at the hands of her superior. The cost to her for standing up for herself: immeasurable. 

I urge women who find themselves in similarly abusive situations to come forward, find an ally, and make your voice heard. Be courageous in your convictions and hold your heads high. I will never apologize for believing women, even if it costs me my political career. 

This decision in no way impacts the unanimous determination of the County Board of Ethics who previously found that “Mr. Alvarez conducted himself in an unprofessional manner while holding conversations with County Employees and officials.  Through his own admissions he was rude, discourteous, nasty and arrogant.  His interactions with County Employees and officials regarding his wife’s care at the Care Center amounted to threats, intimidation and bullying for the sake of personal gain or benefit to obtain preferential treatment for his wife, who was a patient at the Care Center.” Summarily they determined that “Mr. Alvarez violated the code of ethics.” Their determination was forwarded to me as Chair for review and action. 

I did not lose, as no damages were awarded. The women of this county and beyond lost as we set the clock back decades.