Judge Traci Brislin granted 6th District councilwoman Denise Gray’s request for an restraining protective order against the 4th District’s Brenda Monarrez – whom she is accusing of repeated unwanted sexual advances.
The restraining order is temporary, running through mid-October. It bars Monarrez from entering the government center or attending council meetings in person — saying she can attend through Zoom and conduct her business from home.
As Adrian Bryant with CivicLex said Monday, the situation raises questions about how well Monarrez can represent her district with the restrictions in place.
"So that has potentially big implications for the constituents of the 4th District, whose elected representative. It will be much more complicated for her to her job of representing them."
On October 16, a second hearing will determine whether the restraining order will be extended.
Gray has alleged that Monarrez acted sexually aggressive toward her on multiple occasions. No criminal charges have been filed.
UPDATE 4:12 PM: With a restraining order now in effect – to keep one Lexington council member at least 500 feet away from another council member – meetings will be affected for at least a month.
Sixth District councilwoman Denise Gray was granted a protective order against fellow council member Brenda Monarrez on Tuesday morning, with the judge ordering Monarrez to work from home and attend council and committee meeting virtually.
With a 24-hour required before a councilmember can attend virtually, Monarrez was not present for a committee and council meeting Tuesday. Gray was on hand.
Gray has made explicit allegations against Monarrez, accusing her of unwanted sexual advances. While no criminal charges have been filed, Gray has said the interactions left her feeling afraid and vulnerable.
Monarrez’s attorney, Edward Cooley, told WKYT the protective order may favor his client, because “there’s no ability to make false allegations or any further allegations that may or may not be true.”
On October 16, a second hearing will determine whether the restraining order is extended.
