Second former Woodford County EMT sues Judge Executive James Kay over alleged sexual harassment at EMS station

A second former Woodford County EMT has filed a sexual harassment lawsuit, naming Judge Executive James Kay and alleging harassment and a hostile work environment at the county EMS station, according to a report by LEX18 published Aug. 27, 2026.

The filing is described by LEX18 as the second such case involving the Woodford County EMS station, following a prior lawsuit filed by another former EMS worker. In the new case, the plaintiff alleges that conduct connected to the workplace created conditions that violated workplace protections, and that the situation was not properly addressed.

LEX18 reports that the plaintiff is suing Kay in connection with the alleged workplace environment at the EMS station. The report does not indicate that the county has admitted to wrongdoing, and allegations in the lawsuit are claims that will need to be tested through the court process.

A central issue in harassment cases typically turns on what supervisors knew, what actions were taken in response to complaints, and whether the alleged conduct was sufficiently serious and pervasive to affect employment conditions. The new suit, as described by LEX18, centers on claims of sexual harassment and a hostile work environment tied to the EMS workplace.

The lawsuit also puts county leaders in a position to respond in court filings, including motions that may address how claims are framed, whether the complaint is timely, and whether the plaintiff has properly alleged facts that would allow relief. The next procedural steps generally include service of process, an answer from the defense, and subsequent motion practice before trial.

For emergency services, the allegations carry potential implications beyond the individuals involved. Harassment claims involving public safety workplaces can affect staffing stability, employee recruitment and retention, and public trust in how complaints are handled inside institutions that are expected to operate under clear standards and oversight.

LEX18’s report indicates the suit has been filed and is now part of the public court record. As the case proceeds, details such as the specific events alleged, the identities of other individuals named or mentioned, and any documentary evidence will be determined through the adversarial process.