Third U. employee alleges sexual harassment

And Tammy Polonsky A third University employee came forward to accuse housekeeping manager Paul Ross of sexual harassment last night. Housekeeper Tyrone Best, who works in the Dental School, said Ross has verbally abused him, calling him "handsome" on several different occasions. He also described an incident in which Ross made derogatory statements about Best's mother. According to Best, this harassment has been going on for almost a year. Ross refused to comment last night. Two Physical Plant employees, who asked to be referred to as "Spencer" and "Pita" to protect their identities and jobs, made similar allegations earlier this week. Both workers accused Ross of verbally and sexually harassing them. They also said the University has not responded to their complaints. Pita said last night that she was "shocked" to learn that another employee has claimed to have experienced the same treatment from Ross. "I just feel sorry for people who have the problem with Paul [Ross] -- I know what they're going through and it shouldn't happen to anybody," she said. "It shows there really is a problem with Paul Ross." Best said he was accused of pushing Ross on March 23. Best said he was told that the act was caught on surveillance cameras, and was suspended without pay for more than one week. But Best denied ever pushing Ross, adding that he has yet to see a tape of the alleged incident and that nobody has come forward to back up Ross' claims. He added that University officials never gave him the opportunity to present his side of the story. "It was just his word and my word and I am the one that suffered and my family still suffers," Best said. "They took food out of my baby's mouth." Best said he attempted to ignore Ross' actions and words, adding that he was trying to "keep a low profile." "I am just a working person trying to earn a living," he said. "I ignored it, but since he does hold a certain position, he ought to know better. "We come here to work, not to be abused," Best added. He said he has chosen not to file charges or attempt to change buildings. Both Pita and Spencer filed grievances with the Department of Human Resources and the Department of Affirmative Action, along with their Teamsters Union Local 115. When Spencer complained to Affirmative Action officials, they were able to transfer him to another building, away from Ross' jurisdiction. But Best said he "should not have to leave," adding that the University should take action on the situation immediately. "[Ross] just can't keep getting away with it," he said. "I'd like to see these situations addressed through the proper channels."