(SitNews) Juneau, Alaska - Representative Sharon Jackson spoke out this week when she learned a convicted stalker was employed in the Alaska legislature. Jackson said, “I was shocked this week to learn that an individual who has plead guilty and was convicted of harassing and stalking women was hired not once, but twice, inside the Capitol Building this session."

Alaska Landmine reported Peter Paul Ferrero was convicted of stalking Bristol Palin, the daughter of former Gov. Sarah Palin in 2014 and is currently doing contract work for Democratic State Senator Tom Begich, who has known Ferrero since 2016. Begich's response to the Alaska Landmine on the hire of Ferrero was that he believes in second chances.

Ferraro was charged with two Class C felonies in 2017 after a probation violation.  He was also charged with assaulting police and trying to steal the sidearm of a law enforcement officer.

Over the last thirteen months, three elected Alaskan leaders have been forced to resign in separate scandals involving abuse of women. “This culture of placing power politics over the safety of women is utterly unacceptable, especially from those seeking to exercise leadership responsibilities over the Alaska Legislature. I intend to address this by requesting the Legislative Council take immediate action,” said Jackson.

Representative Jackson further stated, “As a woman Legislator, a mother, daughter, and sister, I’m committed to doing everything I can to ensure that we set the example and protect everyone from harassment and unwanted sexual advances in the workplace. I implore my colleagues to follow suit. I look forward to Legislative Leadership that puts the safety of all Alaskans as our top priority.”

Alaska leads the nation in sexual violence against women. The Alaska Department of Health and Social Services confirms that the rate of rape in Alaska is higher than in any other state being more than three times the national average.

Eagle River resident and veteran Sharon Jackson (R) was chosen to serve as the representative for House District 13 for the 31st Session of the Alaska Legislature by Governor Mike Dunleavy in December 2018 to replace Nancy Dahlstrom who won the seat in the November general election. Dahlstrom was appointed commissioner of the Alaska Department of Corrections by Governor Dunleavy earlier in December.

Jackson served in the U.S. Army for six years and was formerly employed as a constituent and veterans liaison for U.S. Sen. Dan Sullivan (R-AK).

Jackson took the oath of office on January 17, 2019 in Juneau. 

Source of News:

Office of Representative Sharon Jackson
www.akleg.gov

Office of Gov. Mike Dunleavy
www.gov.alaska.gov

 

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