Allegedly made “orgasmic noises” while stretching at the police gym

Sources told the Star Tribune the mayor made what they described as performative “orgasmic noises” while stretching in front of others in the Saint Paul Police Department weight room. A second high-ranking officer raised it as part of a claim that the mayor created a sexualized work environment. The mayor regularly used the officers’ gym at police headquarters. The report did not substantiate it. Some officers told investigators they heard noises “that sounded like she was having an orgasm”; others denied hearing them. Investigators reviewed video of the mayor working out at a Fire Department gym and concluded she “does make grunting noises” during demanding workouts, with no evidence the noises were sexual. The chief’s attorney says at least five witnesses heard it, and the allegation is back in the lawsuit.

Women are allowed to make noises in the gym when lifting heavy weights and the mere fact that Mayor Her may have been loud during her exertion does not mean she was doing so in a sexual manner.