Bernadette Greene-Placentia, a Democratic candidate for Arizona’s 8th congressional district, announced that she was sexually assaulted over the summer while attempting to fix one of her campaign signs. Greene-Placentia is seeking to unseat Republican Rep. Abe Hamadeh.
In an interview with the Phoenix New Times, she stated that the incident occurred at approximately 2 a.m. in a parking lot in Sun City, located north of Phoenix. According to her account, she was walking toward a campaign sign when she was attacked and subdued. She said she woke up to find herself being raped by an unidentified assailant.
A spokesperson for Greene-Placentia’s campaign confirmed to ABC News that the attack took place on the early morning of Aug. 14. “Bernadette made the difficult decision to speak publicly about the assault because she wants other survivors to know they are not alone,” the spokesperson said. The campaign added that Greene-Placentia is grateful for community support but asked for her privacy as she processes the trauma.
Greene-Placentia told reporters she chose to come forward after reflecting on her campaign messaging. “I was talking about fighting for Arizona residents while campaigning, and I didn’t feel like I could keep saying that if I weren’t also fighting for women that are victims of sexual assault,” she said.
The Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office verified that a report was filed on Aug. 31 and confirmed that an investigation is underway. Officials stated they could not provide further details regarding the ongoing probe.
Isaiah Lopez, Greene-Placentia’s campaign manager, revealed in a phone conversation with ABC News that the candidate was absent from campaign activities for two days following the alleged assault. Lopez described Greene-Placentia as “noticeably distraught” during a canvass event in Chandler, Arizona, a few days after the incident. He explained that he and the communications manager spoke with her privately while the event continued, at which point she disclosed the rape.
Just sad that candidates have to work late hours in parking lots. Safety for all workers should be prioritized.
Is anyone else concerned a campaign sign repair could be an elaborate fabrication? Seems convenient timing.
She’s incredibly brave to share her story publicly. Thank you for using your platform this way.
Hope the investigation is thorough. Anyone committing such a crime should face maximum penalties.
My heart breaks for her. This is absolutely tragic and horrifying.