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Another harassment lawsuit filed against Insurance Commissioner

Nick Ciolino
/
Delaware Public Media

Insurance Commissioner Trinidad Navarro is facing a second harassment lawsuit.

Months after Fleur McKendell filed a lawsuit claiming Navarro and his subordinates harassed and discriminated against her based on race and gender, a second woman has filed a harassment lawsuit.

Jenifer Vaughn filed her federal lawsuit last month, claiming Navarro tried to control the investigation of McKendell’s allegations against him and the office.

Vaughn was Human Resources Director and Controller for the Delaware Department of Insurance.  She claims when she didn’t allow Navarro to see a grievance against him by McKendell, he physically barred her from leaving her office one time. She also claims he had his subordinates treat her in a hostile manner afterwards.

In a statement, Navarro says he can’t comment on specifics, but strongly denies her depictions of the department and some of the information in the complaint.

Vaughn is currently on paid leave after admitting she shared a password to a state government billing system with another employee, and she was told she won’t return to work until an investigation is completed.

Her lawsuit claims the lengthy investigation is Navarro’s way of retaliating against her.  Navarro denies that in his statement.

Vaughn is seeking to be reinstated with back pay and compensation for pain and suffering.  Her suit also asks for Navarro’s office to complete anti-harassment training.

Joe brings over 20 years of experience in news and radio to Delaware Public Media and the All Things Considered host position. He joined DPM in November 2019 as a reporter and fill-in ATC host after six years as a reporter and anchor at commercial radio stations in New Castle and Sussex Counties.
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