Ocean City Hires Labor Attorney to Investigate Beach Patrol

OCEAN CITY, NJ — Ocean City has hired a labor attorney to investigate allegations against Ocean City Beach Patrol employees, according to city spokesperson Doug Bergen.

Vanessa E. James of the firm Barker, Gelfand, James and Sarvas will interview members of the beach patrol and individuals who posted anonymously to an Instagram page alleging sexual harassment offenses.

“Ocean City remains committed to providing all of the resources necessary to complete a thorough investigation and to ensuring a safe workplace for all employees,” Mayor Jay Gillian said in a news release.

James will work with the Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office to identify those willing to share information. She will review beach patrol and city policies, procedures and training, and make recommendations for changes if required.

According to Bergen, James has extensive experience and training as an external workplace investigator and is a member of the Association of Workplace Investigators (AWI).

Her areas of practice include workplace investigations, employment law and sexual harassment. James was recommended by the Joint Insurance Fund, in which Ocean City participates.

Ocean City is still searching for an independent contractor to oversee the day-to-day operations of the beach patrol for the 2021 season.

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