Fight Sexual Harassment

I am appalled at the contents of an article regarding a Ventura lawyer, Douglas Andrew Palaschak (“D.A. Seeks Inquiry Into Attorney’s Employee Contract,” Aug. 23). If the allegations are true, he should be disbarred, fined and thrown in jail.

The article states that the deputy district attorney “does not believe that the contract violates any laws,” and “doubted that it would protect Palaschak if an employee filed a lawsuit claiming sexual harassment.” Is he serious? The contract at issue and the conduct displayed violated numerous state and federal laws which prohibit sex and age discrimination.

Is there any doubt that such a contract would never protect discriminatory behavior? Please, Mr. or Ms. District Attorney--realize that discrimination (sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination) has far-reaching deleterious effects not only on the immediate victim, but on society as a whole. If you are to represent the people of this county, please show them that you will not take a wishy-washy stance on such behavior.

MARY MILNER HAFFNER

Ventura attorney