As NFL writer Peter King reported earlier this week, Jenn Sterger will not likely pursue sexual harassment charges regarding the Brett Favre sexting scandal. Of course, proving that harassment at work could be difficult, as most sexual harassment cases involve situations that revolve around the chain of command in the workplace, and abuses of power. The New York Jets will try to circumvent that claim by saying Sterger is an independent contractor, not a full-time employee. And also that Favre’s position with the company had no direct power over Sterger’s position with the organization.
Of course, harassment can also include repeated unwanted sexual advances, an uncomfortable work environment, inappropriate workplace behavior etc. And there’s plenty of evidence there. But it appears Sterger will not go that route. She’s been extremely silent and stayed of the limelight this week. She even cancelled her public appearance yesterday at the local Chicago bar and grille “The Bull and Bear.”
And she has declined comment on Deadspin, the Minnesota Vikings QB, sexting etc. until yesterday.
By Paul M. Banks
Here’s an update via Fanhouse:
On Tuesday, Sterger’s manager, Phil Reese, released the following statement from Sterger: “This is something that allegedly happened two years ago. We don’t want a quick resolution, but the proper resolution.”
A day earlier, Reese declined to comment on whether Sterger had retained counsel or was planning to, saying, “we’re looking at all our options right now and our only concern is what’s in Jenn’s best interest.”
Although Sterger was the initial whistleblower on Favre’s failed attempts at adultery, this case and this situation is much much bigger than her or even Favre right now. If league officials knowingly covered up for Favre, it’s now a league issue, not just a Jets or a Vikings issue.
Paul M. Banks is CEO of The Sports Bank.net , a Midwest webzine. He is also a regular contributor to the Chicago Tribune’s Chicago Now network, Walter Football.com, the Washington Times Communities, Yardbarker Network, and Fox Sports.com
You can follow him on Twitter @thesportsbank