The more things change . . .

This blog has contained a number of posts about sex in the workplace, the mishandling of sex harassment complaints  and related matters–most recently happenings that involve the Ohio Attorney General’s office.  (Click here for the latest post, which has links to previous posts.)

A matter that has come to light in Los Angeles doesn’t involve an employment situation (at least, not in the traditional sense), but it provides guidance to human resources professionals in the handling of similar situations that arise in the workplace.  The LA matter involves a teacher having sex with a 15 year old student and the dean of the school concealing evidence of the illicit relationship, despite an ongoing police investigation of the matter.  Not only was the evidence allegedly concealed, the teacher was transferred to another school where he molested two other students–allegedly.

This stuff isn’t rocket science.  Having sex with a 15 year old student is a crime.  Engaging in sex harassment is a violation of Title VII and various state laws.  If you’re in a supervisory position and you learn of this kind of activity, you must deal with it–investigate, discipline (if appropriate), fire (if necessary).  Whether the police are involved or not, you can’t conceal evidence.

I’ve been blaming a lot of this stuff on The Man Gene.  I’m now wondering if it could be global warning, climate change, a bad economy, an extended presidential campaign, the fear of terrorism–you know, things that are more pervasive.   I suppose it could just be stupidity, which has been around a lot longer than almost anything else.

I know you’re not acting stupidly.  Just make sure the people you supervise aren’t acting that way either.