State Assemblywoman Garcia Denies Groping Accusations

SACRAMENTO (CBS NEWS) -- A California state lawmaker at the forefront of the #MeToo movement who faces a growing number of sexual misconduct allegations herself on Tuesday denied those accusations during an interview on CBS This Morning.

Four former employees filed a formal complaint against Democratic Assemblywoman Cristina Garcia. Another says he was fired after protesting when she suggested playing "spin the bottle."

Garcia has authored numerous bills about sexual assault and consent. She was even recently featured in Time magazine's "Persons of the Year" issue recognizing the #MeToo movement's "silence breakers." But now she is on voluntary leave, as investigators look into claims she groped two men.

Daniel Fierro was working in the California State Capitol when he said Garcia cornered him at a staff softball game.

"I remember feeling a little confused about what happened," Fierro said.

"She touched you sexually?" Villarreal asked.

"Yea, she -- her hand dropped down. She touched – she grabbed my butt. And I spun to turn around … and as I turned, she tried to reach for my crotch and she did," Fierro said.

When Villarreal asked Garcia whether Fierro's claims happened, Garcia said, "No."

"What do you remember happening that day?" Villarreal asked.

"I was at the game at the end of the game… And I left with some staff and with some members, and so I have faith that the investigation will make sure and have the facts around it and clear my name," Garcia said.

In:
• Sexual Harassment