“Dozens” of Women Say Former Salve Regina Professor Sexually Harassed Them
GoLocalProv News Team
“Dozens” of Women Say Former Salve Regina Professor Sexually Harassed Them
“I didn't expect this many women to come forward at all. I'm still in a state of shock,” Kat Witschen told GoLocal, saying “dozens” of women have reached out to her. And GoLocal has learned that students at Salve notified both the University and Newport Police outlining near-identical allegations.
Witschen had written about her experience with Gleadow -- who is a well-known actor and director in New England -- as an undergrad, which involved an off-campus photo shoot at his home. She says she was bound and gagged and “gross dialogue” was used in the incident, and she said she now realizes it was an abuse of power by Gleadow.
GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLAST“I was terrified to come forward because I thought no one would believe me, but I knew I needed to put a stop to him,” said Witschen.
Witschen said the support the has received has been overwhelming.
“I feel very supported by the theatre community and everyone had been so kind,” said Witschen. “I hope I made it easier for other women to come forward but completely respect those who don't want to.”
“I just want to make sure that he doesn't do this to anyone else. That's all I want,” she said.
On Wednesday, Salve released a statement regarding Gleadow to GoLocal.
"Salve Regina is aware of these deeply concerning allegations and can confirm that Tom Gleadow is no longer employed by the university. We commend the young women who came forward to report their experiences to the appropriate university staff, which resulted in swift action and outreach to local police. As the university continues to cooperate with the Newport Police investigation, we encourage any Salve students or graduates who have experienced misconduct to reach out to the Dean of Students."
GoLocal has since learned that a group of approximately 15 women approached Salve in mid-August, when they learned they were not alone in what had happened with them and Gleadow.
Newport Police have confirmed there is an open investigation after some women have filed complaints.
"He may not be charged with anything so I want to damn well make sure people know about him," said Witschen.
"I have no idea how much this escalated with others and if I was the worst of him, or if I got off easy," she added. "But I do know that this was an abuse of power and he did not have my consent to use my image for sexual content."