SENATOR BIAGGI ISSUES STATEMENT ON INVESTIGATION INTO SEXUAL HARASSMENT AND ASSAULT ALLEGATIONS AGAINST BRONX PARENT HOUSING NETWORK CHIEF EXECUTIVE

BRONX, NY – Yesterday, a New York Times investigation into the chief executive of the Bronx Parent Housing Network (BPHN), Victor Rivera, found that at least 10 women – including employees and women who lived in shelters run by Mr. Rivera’s organization – had accused him of sexual assault or harassment.

The investigation also found that Mr. Rivera had hired his family members, steered contracts to close associates, and intertwined his nonprofit organization with his other for-profit companies.

State Senator Alessandra Biaggi (D-Bronx/Westchester) issued the following statement:

“The people and organizations who provide shelter to New Yorkers experiencing homelessness are entrusted with the responsibility of caring for our neighbors, and ensuring their safety. The horrendous allegations reported against BPHN chief executive, Victor Rivera, are in direct violation of that duty and mission, and put Bronx residents in immediate danger.

The Times report points to a disturbing abuse of power used to prey on vulnerable women in Mr. Rivera’s care, and a pattern of pervasive sexual harassment and discrimination against BPHN employees. In addition, Mr. Rivera has potentially used his position to benefit his own personal financial gain – a severe betrayal of public trust and that possibly compromises critical resources intended to serve New Yorkers in need.

What is also alarming is that, despite receiving two complaints regarding Mr. Rivera’s inappropriate behavior, the state Division of Human Rights was not required to report the complaints to the NYC Department of Social Services. This is a grave example of how a lack of communication between state and city agencies fails to protect New Yorkers, and must be addressed.

I stand in solidarity with the survivors who have shared their experiences and extend my deepest gratitude for their bravery. We have an obligation to hold perpetrators accountable for their actions, and ensure that powerful men do not get away with such egregious behavior.”

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