The Chicago Public Schools inspector general has reopened an investigation into Hilario Dominguez, a candidate for Chicago Board of Education president. Earlier this year, an investigation into Dominguez was closed without substantiating claims against him. However, recent developments led CPS Inspector General Philip Wagenknecht to revisit the case.
Wagenknecht confirmed the reopening but did not disclose the specific nature of new allegations. Previously, Dominguez’s attorney, former Cook County Commissioner Larry Suffredin, shared that a case was closed in June. The inspector general had not found substantial evidence of inappropriate actions involving a CPS student in 2017 during Dominguez’s work at the Resurrection Project.
The Tribune discussed the situation with the woman involved, who was a minor at the time of the incident. Dominguez was the deputy political director for the Chicago Teachers Union. He faced past allegations from his time at The Resurrection Project, which have reemerged during his campaign.
“I understand why allegations like these are taken seriously. They should be. I took them seriously, too,”
Dominguez wrote last month acknowledging the gravity of the accusations. He mentioned participating in investigations, respecting due processes, and repeatedly being cleared of wrongdoing.
In 2017, according to an internal statement from an employee, a 17-year-old participant in the nonprofit’s summer program reported uncomfortable interactions with Dominguez. The employee, Paloma Rodriguez, penned the report after both the accused and the teen left the organization.
Rodriguez noted the behavior had made the girl uncomfortable, leading her to discuss it with Rodriguez. The girl alleged Dominguez often found opportunities to be alone with her, offered rides home, and commented on her personal life.
The woman detailed specific incidents, including one where Dominguez’s actions made her feel uncomfortable and powerless. She provided the Tribune with a text message from Dominguez acknowledging the allegations, though she did not engage further.
Besides Rodriguez, two former staff members corroborated the claims. Both acknowledged hearing about Dominguez’s behavior, reacting strongly against its appropriateness.
Suffredin responded to queries by denying the accuracy of allegations against Dominguez. He argued the allegations lack proof and shouldn’t tarnish Dominguez’s reputation for political purposes. Citing Dominguez’s contributions to education and organizing, Suffredin emphasized the validity of Dominguez’s achievements.
Dominguez also implicated a relative of the woman, who ran against him in a previous election, as the rumored source of misinformation. The relative denied these allegations.
Resurrection Project CEO Raul Raymundo did not comment on the handling of the allegations. However, a spokesperson confirmed Dominguez’s employment dates but did not discuss the incident.
The woman chose to share her account to address a lack of accountability by Dominguez. As he pursues public office, she wants her voice heard directly rather than through others.
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