A former campaign volunteer for Gov. Phil Murphy has settled with the state for $1 million over rape allegations against a co-worker.
Katie Brennan accused Albert Alvarez of sexual assault while both worked on Murphy’s campaign for governor.
Alvarez has denied the allegations and was never arrested or charged.
But the case led to legislative hearings and reforms on how sexual assault cases are handled in state government.
“I hope that this can create a model program for other New Jersey survivors,” said Brennan in a statement. “Living in silence did not serve me or any other survivors in this state. Speaking out gave me great strength… Each reform makes it worth the pain.”
Brennan sued the Murphy campaign, state of New Jersey and Alvarez. Her attorneys say that Alvarez will participate in a restorative justice process with Brennan as part of the settlement.
Brennan is said to be donating a bulk of the payout to charity.