UPDATE: The Lake County Sheriff’s office said allegations that female courthouse employees were told to disrobe while going through security earlier this week are unfounded. MORE INFO.
WAUKEGAN, Ill. (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Female employees at the Lake County Courthouse in Waukegan raised red flags Tuesday after security guards had them remove their blouses at a checkpoint.
One woman said she was humiliated when she was told she’d have to remove her blouse.
“We take allegations very seriously,” said Lake County Sheriff’s Department Chief of Staff Anthony Vega.
There were multiple complaints from employees, not apparently members of the public.
“The allegations included that female employees were asked to remove a button-down blouse,” Vega told CBS 2.
Chicago-based Monterey Security has a contract to do screenings, along with Lake County Sheriff’s Deputies.
The Sheriff’s Chief of Staff Anthony Vega spoke to CBS 2.
Reporter: These allegations are potentially problematic.
“Absolutely,” Vega said. “Obviously, we do not want to ask any employee or member of the public — male or female — to disrobe.”
Vega said they’re going over protocol with Monterey Security.
“We are working with Monterrey Security on making sure they understand the protocols, re-training those employees,” Vega told CBS 2.
Monterey said in a statement its employees work under the direct supervision of Lake County Sheriff’s employees and they carried out screenings in full accordance with established policies.
“With the lifting of Stage 5 restrictions this week, we took steps in advance to ensure all of our officers were familiar with the screening policies at Lake County government buildings.
“Under the direct supervision and surveillance of Lake County Sheriff Court Security Officers and Deputies, we carried out those screenings in full accordance with those established policies. We remain confident in the professionalism and high standards maintained by all personnel from all of the teams involved in the screening process in those public areas.
“We look forward to continuing to work together with Lake County Sheriff’s Deputies and court security staff to provide a safe and welcoming environment for all staff and visitors.”
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