Skip to main content
See every side of every news story
Published • loading... • Updated

St. Paul City Council to Appoint Special Council for Mayor Amid Police Chief's Sexual Harassment Suit

Council members said state law requires a defense while they await a review that could shift future legal costs to taxpayers.

  • On Wednesday, the St. Paul City Council voted unanimously to retain law firm Fisher Phillips to represent Mayor Kaohly Her against a sexual harassment lawsuit filed by Police Chief Axel Henry, at rates up to $500 per hour.
  • Henry filed the lawsuit last week, alleging unwanted touching and inappropriate sexual comments by Her; an independent investigation summary released September 18 found her conduct was "offensive and inappropriate" rather than sexual harassment.
  • Council members expressed frustration at the lack of transparency, noting the city faces a $26 million budget gap while feeling legally obligated to fund the mayor's defense despite knowing little about the allegations.
  • Explaining the decision, Council President Rebecca Noecker noted the city is statutorily required to "indemnify and defend" city employees, and the council will meet next week to determine if specific conditions apply.
  • Full findings of the independent investigation are expected within the week as city leaders seek public transparency, while the administration and police department continue navigating this ongoing legal conflict.
Insights by Ground AI

10 Articles

Think freely.Subscribe and get full access to Ground NewsSubscriptions start at $9.99/yearSubscribe

Bias Distribution

  • 70% of the sources are Center
70% Center

Factuality Info Icon

To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium

Ownership

Info Icon

To view ownership data please Upgrade to Vantage

Fox 9 broke the news in Minneapolis, United States on Wednesday, September 30, 2026.
Too Big Arrow Icon
Sources are mostly out of (0)

Similar News Topics

News
Feed Dots Icon
For You
Search Icon
Search
Blindspot LogoBlindspotLocal