House ethics panel investigating John Conyers for sex harassment claims

(WJBK) - The House Ethics Committee launched an investigation of Congressman John Conyers Tuesday for sexual harassment allegations.
 
Several former staffers are accusing the Detroit Democrat of asking for sexual favors, inappropriate touching and more.

Monica Conyers, the feisty wife of John Conyers, kicked the media off her property. FOX 2 went there hoping to get a word with her husband - the latest politician to be accused of sexual harassment in a story from Buzzfeed.

The report was complete with affidavits from staffers in 2014 alleging affairs, unwanted and inappropriate touching, rubbing, remarks and wrongful termination.

The story included a confidential settlement with one female staff member at taxpayers' expense for $27,000, according to Buzzfeed, Conyers had harassed her for some time - even telling her to touch his penis - or find a woman who would meet his sexual demands.

FOX 2 has learned there are more recent allegations against Conyers, who at 88 is the longest still-serving member of Congress and leader of the House Judiciary Committee. He's accused in this lawsuit from earlier this year of harassing a woman hired as a scheduler in his office. 

She says she was the victim of sexual harassment and a hostile work environment as well as wrongful termination. She says due to the congressman's age and failing mental capacities she was in charge of everything from his medication to morning wake up calls. 

She says while in the office he rubbed her shoulders, kissed her forehead, made inappropriate comments and tried to hold her hand.

She alleges Monica Conyers called her a "whore" and says she felt threatened by Mrs. Conyers, whom she referred to as a "brawler." The woman is seeking $105,000 in lost wages, mental anguish and damages.

A spokesperson says Conyers was unaware of the recent allegations but denies them. He acknowledges the settlement described in the Buzzfeed article but says:

"I expressly and vehemently denied the allegations made against me, and continue to do so. The resolution was not for millions of dollars, but rather for an amount that equated to a reasonable severance payment.”