San Diego Mayor Apologizes for Mistreating Female Employees

ABC 10: SAN DIEGO – Amid calls for him to resign over allegations of sexual harassment, Mayor Bob Filner admitted Thursday he had mistreated women in his office and apologized for his behavior, saying he had “diminished the office” of mayor. In a statement released on DVD by his office, Filner said:

I am also humbled to admit that I need help. I have begun to work with professionals to make changes in my behavior and approach. In addition, my staff and I will participate in sexual harassment training provided by the city. Please know that I fully understand that only I am the one that can make these changes. If my behavior doesn’t change, I cannot succeed in leading our city. In the next few days, I will be reaching out to those who now work in the Mayor’s Office or have previously worked for me – both men and women – to personally apologize for my behavior. I will also be announcing fundamental changes within the Mayor’s Office designed to promote a new spirit of cooperation, respect and effectiveness.You have every right to be disappointed in me. I only ask that you give me an opportunity to prove I am capable of change, so that the vision I have for our city’s future can be realized.

Thank you.”