The Magnolia city secretary has filed a federal lawsuit accusing Mayor Matthew Dantzer of sexual harassment and assault, alleging misconduct dating back to 2021 and claiming the city failed to act on her complaints.
Christian Gable, the City Secretary of Magnolia, has initiated a federal lawsuit against Mayor Matthew Dantzer, alleging sexual harassment and assault. The lawsuit outlines a pattern of misconduct that reportedly began in 2021 and asserts that city officials did not take adequate measures to ensure her protection.
A lawsuit was filed on April 8 in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas, Houston Division. The case names Dantzer as a defendant in both his official and individual capacities, and it also includes the City of Magnolia.
The recent filing follows Dantzer's booking into the Montgomery County Jail, where he is currently under investigation by the Texas Rangers. Authorities have not disclosed details about the arrest.
Gable's lawsuit claims that Dantzer engaged in a pattern of inappropriate comments and behavior, notably referring to her as the "city sexetary" when introducing her to others at City Hall after she took on the role in 2023.
The complaint asserts that the city did not adequately investigate her allegations and breached the Texas Whistleblower Act following her report of an alleged assault that took place during a conference in Fort Worth.
The lawsuit claims the incident occurred outside the Omni Fort Worth Hotel during a conference in October. Gable alleges that Dantzer tried to remove her pants and subsequently seized her by the neck, choking her near the entrance of the hotel.
Gable claims she experienced physical harm and medical issues, notably giving birth two weeks prematurely after the incident.
Dantzer’s attorney, Douglas Atkinson, previously issued a statement refuting the allegations.
“Mr. Dantzer asserts his innocence and anticipates the chance to present his defense in the proper legal proceedings,” Atkinson stated.
The legal complaint details additional allegations of persistent workplace harassment. Gable claims that Dantzer, a neighbor and family acquaintance, made inappropriate sexual remarks. This conduct intensified after she joined the city staff in 2021.
She alleges that Dantzer would show up uninvited at her parents' house during lunchtime and subsequently made a series of "unprofessional jokes and sexual comments" at City Hall. Due to her position of authority, Gable stated that she felt obligated to endure the behavior in order to maintain her employment.
Officials in the city have yet to issue a public statement regarding the lawsuit.
Dantzer, a veteran of the U.S. Army, secured the position of mayor in 2024 following his tenure on the city council. His current term is scheduled to conclude in May, and he has opted not to pursue reelection.
The civil case and the ongoing state investigation are proceeding without interruption.
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