Scandal Unfolds: Pima County Treasurer Resigns Amid Harassment Probe

Resignation Amidst Harassment Claims

TUCSON, Ariz. – Newly unearthed records have shed light on the circumstances leading to Pima County Treasurer Brian Johnson's sudden resignation on June 12. Evidence reveals that an active investigation into sexual harassment allegations was in full swing when Johnson announced his departure. Human Resources was still actively collecting evidence as the events unfolded.

Details secured by 13 News through a public records request highlight several sexual harassment claims directed at Johnson. The investigation, dating back to June 2, encompassed multiple witness accounts, corroborating interviews, and substantial evidence collection, painting a troubling picture of the workplace environment under Johnson's tenure.

Allegations Against Johnson

An employee accused Johnson of repeatedly pressuring her into an unwanted sexual relationship involving him and his girlfriend, despite her firm refusals. The allegations extended to inappropriate physical contact – hugging, attempting to kiss, kissing on the cheek, and even licking her face, with the victim promptly reporting the incident.

Other employees echoed concerns, describing Johnson's inappropriate behavior during meetings, which allegedly included touching his groin, discussing his sex life, and displaying art depicting nude women in his office. HR investigators collected photographic evidence to corroborate these claims.

Books and Grooming Concerns

The investigation also scrutinized Johnson's self-published books, characterized by mature sexual content. Alarming reports indicated Johnson distributed these books to youth workers and interns, including a 15-year-old, though the book was later exchanged for a comic book.

“The content was deemed not criminal, but certainly depicted potential grooming behavior,” Deputy County Administrator Chad Kasmar noted after a review.

The Resignation Timeline

On June 10, County Administrator Jan Lesher advised Johnson to consider stepping down. At that time, HR was still formulating investigative questions, and an internal email from June 11 indicated Johnson had no intention to resign. However, within 24 hours, he submitted his resignation, marking a rapid conclusion to his tenure.

In a move to protect future investigations, the county withheld certain sensitive materials such as interview recordings, text messages, and photographs, citing potential discouragement of employee participation if such materials were released publicly.

Johnson's Response

Despite 13 Investigates' request for an on-camera interview, Johnson ultimately declined, citing confidentiality concerns. He maintained, “I am not going to litigate in the media.”

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