Former Cochrane CAO sues mayor over harassment

Monika Malherbe alleges repeated incidents of verbal abuse and hostile work environment

Mar. 30, 2026 at 9:45pm

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A dimly lit government office desk sits alone in an empty room, the warm sunlight casting long shadows and creating a pensive, unsettling mood.The former Cochrane CAO's lawsuit alleges a pattern of harassment and a hostile work environment created by the current mayor.Cochrane Today

The former chief administrative officer of Cochrane, Wisconsin, Monika Malherbe, has filed a lawsuit against the current mayor, alleging a pattern of harassment and a hostile work environment during her time as CAO.

Why it matters

This case highlights ongoing tensions between local government officials and the challenges faced by public sector employees in reporting and addressing workplace misconduct, especially when it involves elected officials.

The details

According to the statement of claim, Malherbe experienced repeated incidents of verbal abuse, intimidation, and unreasonable demands from the mayor over a period of several years. The lawsuit alleges the mayor's behavior created a hostile work environment that ultimately led to Malherbe's resignation.

  • Malherbe served as Cochrane's CAO from 2020 to 2025.
  • The lawsuit was filed on March 30, 2026.

The players

Monika Malherbe

The former chief administrative officer of Cochrane, Wisconsin who is suing the current mayor for harassment.

Cochrane Mayor

The current mayor of Cochrane, Wisconsin who is being sued by the former CAO for alleged harassment and creating a hostile work environment.

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What they’re saying

“The mayor's abusive behavior made it impossible for me to continue serving the people of Cochrane. I had no choice but to resign in the face of this ongoing harassment.”

— Monika Malherbe, Former Cochrane CAO

What’s next

The lawsuit is expected to go to trial later this year, where a judge will determine if Malherbe has a valid case against the mayor.

The takeaway

This case underscores the need for stronger protections and accountability measures for public sector employees who face misconduct from elected officials in positions of power.