Top Collin County officials and six former and current employees finalized a settlement Monday for $1.75 million over alleged sexual harassment and retaliation in the district attorney’s office, according to attorneys.
The federal lawsuit accused District Attorney Greg Willis of repeatedly making untoward comments, and inappropriately touching and propositioning employees. The suit accused Willis’ No. 2, First Assistant District Attorney Bill Wirskye, of targeting women and fostering a toxic workplace.
Other officials — including County Judge Chris Hill and commissioners Darrell Hale, Susan Fletcher, Cheryl Williams and Duncan Webb — were accused of covering up the systemic misconduct.
The 75-page suit was filed in October by the district attorney’s chief and deputy chief investigators, a prosecutor and three former employees.
“These individuals care very deeply for each other’s well-being,” their attorney Jeffrey Simon said in a written statement. “That support gave them the courage to stand up for themselves, their rights, and those of their colleagues.”
The agreement was not immediately available in public records.
The current and former employees will share the settlement equally, which will be paid through the county’s insurance, Simon’s statement said. County commissioners agreed to sign off on a settlement Monday, according to a county spokesman and the Commissioners Court’s agenda.