D.C. Police Search Labor Secretary's Office in Sex Assault Probe

Investigation targets allegations against Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer's husband, Shawn DeRemer

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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District of Columbia police searched the office suite of Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer earlier this month as part of an investigation into sexual assault allegations against her husband, Shawn DeRemer. DeRemer, an anesthesiologist, has been barred from the Labor Department's headquarters following complaints by two female staffers that he touched them inappropriately inside the building.

Why it matters

The search of a Cabinet official's office by local police is highly unusual, raising questions about the seriousness of the allegations and the potential implications for the Labor Secretary. The case also highlights concerns about workplace misconduct and the challenges of maintaining professional boundaries in the federal government.

The details

According to Politico, the Metropolitan Police Department conducted the search on February 5th, but it is unclear what they were seeking. Neither Chavez-DeRemer nor her deputy were present at the time. The Labor Department and the police declined to comment on the ongoing investigation. Shawn DeRemer has denied the allegations against him.

  • The search occurred on February 5, 2026.
  • On December 18, 2025, one of the alleged incidents involving DeRemer was recorded by office security cameras.
  • On January 12, 2026, Chavez-DeRemer's chief of staff and deputy chief of staff were placed on administrative leave amid an investigation into complaints about misuse of official travel and other misconduct.

The players

Lori Chavez-DeRemer

The current U.S. Secretary of Labor, whose office suite was searched by D.C. police as part of an investigation into allegations against her husband.

Shawn DeRemer

The husband of Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer, who has been accused of sexually assaulting two female Labor Department staffers and has been barred from the department's headquarters.

Metropolitan Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that conducted the search of the Labor Secretary's office suite as part of the investigation into the allegations against Shawn DeRemer.

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What they’re saying

“LCD knew MPD was here but not why”

— Labor Department official (Politico)

“I have not done any of this and I categorically deny these things. I will absolutely categorically fight everything in this.”

— Shawn DeRemer (The Wall Street Journal)

What’s next

The judge will decide on Tuesday whether to allow Shawn DeRemer out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the serious nature of the allegations against Shawn DeRemer and the potential implications for the Labor Secretary, Lori Chavez-DeRemer. It raises questions about workplace misconduct and the challenges of maintaining professional boundaries in the federal government.