We are bringing attention to a serious pattern of sexual harassment, threats, and municipal inaction in the Town of Cape Charles, demonstrating potential violations of civil rights under 42 U.S.C. § 1983 and the Fourteenth Amendment.
What Happened:
Sexual Harassment and Threats
During the week of September 30th/beginning of October 2020, an individual (name withheld on change.org) sexually harassed me in their office when I went to ask about internet access. At the time, I was working for Lemontree Gallery and operating a licensed photography business on Strawberry Street, having invested significant time, money, and effort into marketing, presentation, equipment, and permits.
Three days later, the same individual crossed the street uninvited, barged into my office, unzipped their pants, and asked to masturbate in front of me. I refused, and they eventually left. On a subsequent day, they cornered me on the sidewalk, threatening me, demanding my silence, and stating they knew where I lived. This caused severe emotional distress, paranoia, and months of disrupted sleep, deeply affecting my personal and professional life.
Impact on Personal and Professional Life
Following these incidents, I experienced fear, anxiety, and relocation stress, negatively affecting my livelihood and personal safety.
Attempts to Report
I made multiple phone calls to the police in both Eastville and Cape Charles to report these incidents. I was eventually told the matter was “non-reportable” by local chief and redirected to the magistrate. This dismissal occurred without any formal interview, investigation, or documentation, constituting deliberate indifference to credible reports of sexual harassment and threats.
Subsequent FOIA requests confirmed the town’s decision to deem this a non-reportable event (Libby Hume, September 14, 2023). I also contacted RAINN and ESCADV, but received minimal follow-up, demonstrating inadequate legal advocacy support for survivors.
Pattern of Harm
Based on personal research and communications with others, this individual has caused significant harm to multiple women over many years (since at least 2012). The town’s repeated refusal to act or investigate has allowed this person to remain unaccountable, creating a systemic risk to residents.
Legal Basis for Concern
The town’s failure to accept reports, investigate, or protect victims may constitute deliberate indifference under 42 U.S.C. § 1983, creating potential civil liability.
The Fourteenth Amendment obligates municipalities to provide protection when authorities are aware of credible threats to residents. Ignoring these reports undermines public trust and permits continued harm.
Request for Response and Action
Given the seriousness and ongoing nature of these issues, I request:
Formal acknowledgment of this report and a clear statement of the steps the town intends to take.
Immediate review and improvement of the town’s sexual harassment and assault reporting procedures.
Assurance that individuals reporting incidents will be taken seriously and protected from retaliation.
It is unacceptable that repeated reports have been ignored, leaving a known predator free to continue harmful behavior. I cannot, in good conscience, allow this situation to continue unaddressed.
References:
42 U.S.C. § 1983 – Civil action for deprivation of rights
Fourteenth Amendment: Due Process Clause, protection against deliberate indifference
Submitted By:
Clelia Jane Sheppard