INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Indianapolis City-County employees now have a way to report sexual harassment while remaining anonymous.

An anonymous reporting website launched Wednesday morning, the mayor’s office confirmed to News 8.

The reporting website adds to many initiatives the city has planned following recent investigations of sexual harassment against city employees.

In July, former Mayor Chief of Staff Thomas Cook was accused of having inappropriate sexual relationships with multiple subordinates dating as early back in 2014. Cook resigned from the position in 2020.

Following those allegations becoming public, Mayor Joe Hogsett signed an executive order requiring sexual harassment prevention training for all employees annually. Additionally, he announced a plan to hire a national firm, without any local ties, to review and update the employee handbook. 

In a notice sent to employees, the city says the website will “support (the city’s) commitment to a safe and respectful workplace for all.”

“Your safety and well-being are our top priorities, and we are committed to addressing any concerns swiftly and effectively,” the notice says.

Related coverage

• ‘I would like him to apologize’: Former staffers demand changes from Hogsett after claims of abuse by aide
• Former Hogsett Chief of Staff accused of inappropriate relationships with subordinates
• Councilor demands Mayor Hogsett resign
• ‘I want to tell you how sorry I am’: Hogsett apologizes to former staffers
• City-County Council vows better protections amid sexual harassment scandal
• Hogsett to sign executive order on sexual harassment prevention training
• City-County Council unveils plan to address harassment allegations
• Panel could look into mayor’s office handling of sexual harassment allegations

Help is available for victims of domestic violence. Below is a list of suggested resources on the Domestic Violence Network website:

• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-7233 or text START to 88788
• National Domestic Violence Hotline en español: 800-799-7233 o texto “START” al 88788
• Indiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence: 24-hour hotline available at 800-332-7385
• Indiana Coalition to End Sexual Assault and Human Trafficking
• La Plaza Indy
• The Julian Center
• Indiana Child Abuse Hotline: 800-800-5556
• National Sexual Assault Hotline: 800-656-4673