Democratic Rep. Rick Staples faces allegations, investigation of sexual misconduct

Knoxville Democratic Rep. Rick Staples is facing disciplinary action after an internal investigation determined he violated the legislature’s sexual harassment policy, according to multiple sources aware of the inquiry.

As a result, Staples is expected to be removed from the House Ethics Committee, to which Speaker Glen Casada appointed him in January.

Although the official details of Staples’ violation of the policy are unclear, the allegations of improper conduct make him the fourth Tennessee lawmaker in as many years to face scrutiny for their conduct — including three for actions while in office.

A woman who recently interacted with Staples while visiting the legislature told the USA TODAY NETWORK - Tennessee the actions come after she brought forward her concerns that the lawmaker inappropriately touched her.

Read more: https://www.tennessean.com/story/news/politics/2019/04/03/tennessee-politics-democratic-rep-rick-staples-faces-allegations-investigation-sexual-misconduct/3352580002/