SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP/WAND) — An investigation of sexual harassment in House Speaker Michael Madigan's office found that control has been too centralized and discourages complaints about mistreatment.

Madigan on Tuesday released a report he ordered by former state executive inspector general Maggie Hickey . It focused on three allegations of sexual misconduct or intimidation. It found sufficient evidence to back up one complaint that Madigan's now-resigned chief of staff Timothy Mapes made inappropriate sexual comments and intimidated employees .

Hickey says Mapes' power was too centralized for appropriate communication. He could not be reached Tuesday.

Hickey says she heard many concerns about bullying and a "militant" staff.

Madigan says he takes "responsibility for not doing enough previously" but noted that Hickey pointed out significant steps he's taken to improve the atmosphere.

Sherri Garrett, a long-time staffer who worked in Madigan's office, issued a statement Tuesday about the report: 

"Today has been difficult for me reliving the events that led me to make my harassment complaint and the ordeal of the complaint process. I am not a public person, but I felt I had no choice but to make my harassment complaint public if I wanted anything to change.

"I thank Ms. Hickey for her work in substantially confirming my allegations against Mr. Mapes and for providing concrete recommendations to Speaker Madigan on how to improve the culture in Springfield. I loved my job with the Illinois House of Representatives, and I was proud to serve the people of Illinois. I truly hope that the workplace culture changes so that people doing this important work are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve.

"I also want to thank State Representative Kelly Cassidy for her leadership, guidance and friendship during this process. Without her, I am not sure I could have come forward publicly. The people of Illinois owe her a debt a gratitude for the work she is doing on sexual harassment issues."

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Online: https://ilhousedems.com/