Lexington, Ky. — A judge has issued an interpersonal protective order for Councilwoman Denise Gray, prohibiting fellow Councilwoman Brenda Monarrez from contacting her or getting within 500 feet of her home and city hall. The ruling came late Wednesday night after hours of testimony regarding allegations of harassment and physical abuse.
This protective order is part of a legal mechanism designed to shield victims from individuals accused of misconduct. In a joint statement reacting to the judge’s decision, Mayor and Vice Mayor Dan Wu expressed their dismay over the conduct attributed to Monarrez. They stated, “Residents of Lexington expect their elected officials to act professionally and lawfully. We are deeply disturbed by a judge’s recent decision finding reason to believe a Councilmember engaged in multiple assaults on a colleague. This conduct is unacceptable in or out of the workplace, and LFUCG will fully abide by the judge’s ruling.”
Concerns have been voiced among constituents in Monarrez’s District Four, with residents feeling uncertain about the situation’s implications. Jackie Williams, a local resident, remarked, “I just think it’s a shame that this has happened and that we have — her constituents have gotten drawn into having to decide what’s going on.” She emphasized the importance of gathering all the information to make informed decisions moving forward.
Another resident, Lisa Williams, echoed similar sentiments, urging voters to conduct thorough research before making electoral decisions. “A decision that all voters need to make is to do your research,” she stated. Councilmember Monarrez is scheduled for reelection on November 5, facing a challenge from Emma Curtis for the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council District Four seat.
The recent developments have raised significant questions regarding the leadership and integrity of elected officials within the Lexington city council. Residents now find themselves grappling with the effects of these allegations as they approach the upcoming election.
