Statement from Alderperson JoCasta Zamarripa

On February 11, an incident occurred at City Hall involving Alderman Mark Chambers, Jr. and me. What should have been a conversation among colleagues quickly escalated into something far more serious. I was confronted in my office, verbally berated, and physically intimidated in a way that made me feel trapped and unable to safely exit. Multiple individuals witnessed what occurred.

During the encounter, I was subjected to profane and degrading remarks, including being taunted to ‘start crying.’ The comments were gendered and demeaning. This is not the first time I have experienced hostility from this individual.

This was not just a personal disagreement or just raised voices. When an elected official uses the authority and physical presence of their office to intimidate or silence a colleague, it is a misuse of public power that undermines the democratic process. It also sends a troubling message to the residents I represent that their voices can be bullied or pushed aside inside City Hall.

Holding public office is built on public trust. That trust depends on every elected official being able to do their job without threats, intimidation, or abuse. That is why I have filed a formal complaint and requested a full investigation under the City’s ethics code, including whether this conduct constituted misuse of office and violated the standards required of City officials.

Accountability matters. Not only for me, but for the integrity of City government and the communities whose representation must be respected.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.