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5mo ago

PinkNews Leadership Faces Allegations of Sexual Misconduct and Workplace Misconduct

Dozens of former and current employees accuse Benjamin Cohen and Anthony James of inappropriate behavior, creating a toxic work culture at the LGBTQ+ media outlet.

Image
A composite image showing Benjamin Cohen and his husband Anthony James in black and white on a dark background, with an abstract background of neon pink lines with a rainbow motif of horizontal dots just showing through. There are also glimpses of figures texting on phones or close-ups of eyes in the background. Mr Cohen has dark hair, closely cropped at the sides and longer on top, stubble, and is wearing a tuxedo with a subtle pattern of crosses and a silk shirt. Mr James has brown hair and a beard, and is wearing an unusual high-fastening double-breasted jacket with a bold checked pattern.

Overview

  • Over 30 former and current PinkNews employees have accused CEO Benjamin Cohen and COO Anthony James of sexual misconduct and bullying from 2017 to 2024.
  • Witnesses allege that James kissed and groped a junior staff member who was too intoxicated to consent during a company event in London.
  • Cohen is accused of inappropriate advances toward male employees, including a proposition to a staff member and slapping another on the bottom at a Christmas party.
  • The company is reported to have fostered a heavy drinking culture, with events like 'Prosecco Fridays' allegedly enabling inappropriate behavior by leadership.
  • James has been suspended from his NHS role pending further information, while the allegations against both men have been denied by their representatives.