SAN DIEGO (CNS) - The high-profile lawyer representing two women who have publicly accused San Diego Mayor Bob Filner of unwanted sexual advances said today she has been contacted by more alleged victims.
"I can't tell you whether or not they will at any point publicly identify themselves," attorney Gloria Allred said. "Of course, I would encourage each and every one of them to contact the sheriff's hotline because they are doing an investigation."
Allred said women should call the hotline even if they don't believe any of the harassment was criminal in nature, so sheriff's officials can conduct a complete investigation.
The Sheriff's Department is investigating the sexual harassment allegations, and will decide whether to refer a criminal case with the state Attorney General's Office. It is unknown how many calls the hotline has received.
A nurse who is represented by Allred and went public today was the 11th alleged victim to come forward with her story.
Allred suggested the city post a warning sign outside the mayor's office and held up an example for reporters. It read, "Warning to Women. Danger. Mayor is in his office. Proceed at your own risk!!"
The alleged victims who have publicly accused the mayor of sexual harassment are:
-- Irene McCormack Jackson, the former mayoral communications director and Allred client who has sued Filner and the city;
-- Laura Fink, Filner's former congressional deputy campaign manager;
-- Morgan Rose, a San Diego Unified School District psychologist;
-- Ronne Froman, a retired Navy rear admiral who was chief operating officer for a time under ex-Mayor Jerry Sanders;
-- Joyce Gattas, a dean at San Diego State University;
-- Sharon Bernie-Cloward, president of the Port of San Diego's Tenants Association;
-- Pattie Roscoe, a businesswoman;
-- Lisa Curtin, an administrator with San Diego City College;
-- Emily Gilbert, an entertainer who works as a Marilyn Monroe impersonator;
-- Renee Estill-Sombright, a bank employee; and
-- Michelle Tyler, a licensed vocational nurse.
The women have described unwanted sexual harassment by Filner, his attempts to kiss them and groping.
