Co-workers sue 2 in Ohio AG's office

7/18/2008

COLUMBUS - Two women whose claims of sexual harassment triggered a scandal at the Ohio attorney general's office have been accused of harassing co-workers.

Complaints filed against Vanessa Stout and Cindy Stankoski say they fostered a hostile work environment by intimidating co-workers with dirty looks and inappropriate comments.

A spokesman for the attorney general's office said the employment complaints are being investigated. An attorney for Ms. Stout and Ms. Stankoski said the allegations are part of a pattern of retaliation.

In March, Ms. Stout and Ms. Stankoski accused a top aide to Attorney General Marc Dann of sexual harassment. Two aides were fired and another forced to resign after an investigation.

Mr. Dann resigned in May after he acknowledged having an extramarital affair with a subordinate, which he said contributed to an inappropriate atmosphere in the office.