RIAC Conducting Investigation Into Sexual and Physical Threats, Employee Fired, 2 Suspended
GoLocalProv News Team
RIAC Conducting Investigation Into Sexual and Physical Threats, Employee Fired, 2 Suspended
“Several courageous employees within the department came forward and raised their concerns with department head Jessica Damicis, P.E., who has this department in her portfolio. The impacted employees described conditions over many months that they perceived as hostile - including threatening and sexually explicit conduct - as well as experiencing racial and ethnic slurs and demeaning comments. Those reports are being investigated with urgency and care,” said Bill Fischer, a spokesperson for RIC.
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One Fired, Two on Suspension
At this time, one employee has been terminated, and two others have been placed on administrative leave pending completion of an ongoing investigation, consistent with applicable policies and collective-bargaining agreements. The RIAC executive team is extremely concerned about this situation and commends those employees who stepped forward to help ensure a safe and respectful workplace.
RIAC employs about 160 people.
“RIAC will not tolerate employees experiencing negative consequences arising from one department’s culture that failed to address reported misconduct. The ongoing internal investigation of the Airfield Maintenance Department is being led by Damicis. The Airfield Maintenance Department consists of technicians, supervisors, and managers who are all members of the bargaining unit,” added Fischer.
According to RIAC:
Damicis has met with all department members to reiterate expectations of professionalism and accountability, and has established a contingency plan to ensure uninterrupted airfield-maintenance coverage and regulatory compliance should additional personnel actions be required. Affected employees, including any supervisors and/or managers, will have all collectively bargained and due process rights available to them to challenge any disciplinary actions.
RIAC will continue to safeguard those who reported concerns from any form of retaliation while the investigation proceeds.
RIAC has reported this matter in accordance with all of its legal obligations, including notifying the Federal Aviation Administration. The corporation has implemented enhanced oversight and corrective measures to support both cultural reform and operational continuity. These actions reflect RIAC’s unwavering commitment to a safe, compliant, and respectful workplace, and to upholding the highest standards of public service and professionalism across the organization.