Schuylkill County Commissioner George F. Halcovage Jr. on Thursday issued a statement concerning proposed settlement talks to resolve the federal sexual harassment lawsuit filed against him by four women who work at the courthouse.

The women filed the suit in U.S. District Court, Scranton, on March 16, 2021. They allege he sexually harassed them beginning in 2012, when he was first elected.

Court documents were filed Monday to explore the possibility of mediation.

Halcovage’s statement:

“I am deeply troubled by the allegations of sexual harassment made against me. I want to be clear that I deny all accusations of wrongdoing.

“I take all allegations of sexual harassment seriously and believe that everyone has the right to a safe and respectful workplace. I have always strived to create an environment where my colleagues feel valued and respected, and it is deeply disappointing to hear that anyone has felt otherwise. My wife, children and I for years have considered my now accusers as actual friends. This is especially hurtful.

“I will vigorously defend myself against these claims and I am confident that the truth will come out in due course.”

Halcovage continued, “It has been frustrating to me and my family to not be able to share with the public what happened. However, given the pending lawsuit and the restrictions on my disclosure of information, you have not yet heard from me what actually occurred. Don’t believe everything you read in the press or in blogs and webpages created by my opponents.”

He cited his record.

“For more than a decade, I have strived as a commissioner to do what is best for the county. This has never been a part-time job for me. We raised our family in this county. In addition to my courthouse duties, I have worked many hours attending public events and reaching out to our residents to talk with them about their concerns. I have always welcomed open dialogue with all who have questions. I may not agree with everyone, but I always wanted to hear what the people of our county have to say,” Halcovage said.

“Of course, all parties will not always be in agreement with every decision and vote I make, but I always strive to put the county’s interests first.

“I am issuing this statement now because it has been reported that an order was issued sending this case to mediation. My intention was always to explain my position at a public trial, but I welcome mediating this dispute with the court.

“And here is why.

“All of the parties to this case are emotionally invested in this lawsuit. That includes my wife, my family and me. Weekly press accounts about the case, even when there is no new information, just inflames everyone’s emotions, and for no reason. Imagine how frustrating it is to read something in a newspaper or on a blog that you know is not true but you have no ability to comment on it.”

Halcovage added, “If the court is able to resolve these claims in a manner that lessens the emotional impact on all the parties and my family, I certainly welcome the court’s involvement in making that happen.”

He concluded, “In a typical jury trial, a judge will instruct the jury that there are two sides to every case. The judge will caution the jury about not reaching a decision until both sides present their evidence. I respectfully ask the residents of Schuylkill County to do the same.”