Lexington — A Fayette Circuit Court judge ruled on Wednesday that Lexington Councilwoman Brenda Monarrez sexually assaulted fellow Councilwoman Denise Gray. The ruling followed a seven-hour hearing, resulting in a three-year protection order. This order prohibits Monarrez from contacting Gray and requires her to maintain a distance of 500 feet from both Gray’s home and the Lexington government center.
Fayette Circuit Court Judge Traci Brislin stated, “I believe an actual sexual assault occurred, and it may occur again,” confirming that the court believes the incidents happened on two separate occasions. While no criminal charges have been filed against Monarrez, the case remains under investigation by the Lexington Police.
The hearing addressed a temporary protection order initially granted in August after Gray submitted a petition stating that Monarrez had been sexually aggressive towards her. Gray testified tearfully about an incident during an August 1 dinner, where Monarrez allegedly attempted to kiss her and grabbed her inappropriately. Gray detailed that she felt unsafe and was upset during the encounter.
Gray reported feelings of blame and confusion after a subsequent incident in October 2021, where she claimed to have lost consciousness at Monarrez’s house and woke up to find Monarrez performing a sexual act on her. Following the August incident, Gray reached out to her fellow council member, Shayla Lynch, who encouraged her to report the incident and seek support for sexual assault survivors.
Monarrez denied the allegations during the hearing, claiming both women were intoxicated during the events. Her attorney, Edward Cooley, indicated plans to appeal the ruling and expressed concerns about Monarrez’s ability to fulfill her council duties while the protection order is in effect.
Judge Brislin emphasized the importance of the evidence presented, particularly a text message from Gray stating she felt violated after the August incident. The ruling also highlighted the dynamics between the two council members, with concerns regarding Monarrez’s attempts to act as a financial supporter of Gray.
The ruling comes as both women prepare for the upcoming November 5 general election, where Monarrez faces a challenger for her council seat, while Gray remains uncontested.
