A man accused of sexually harassing at least five women at Copper Sky Multigenerational Center has been banned for life from the city’s public gym. The accusations include disturbing descriptions of sexual harassment, prompting a strong response from city officials.
The incidents, part of a growing trend labeled #GymCreep on social media, have gained significant attention, with the hashtag amassing over 100 million views on TikTok in the past year. This movement has encouraged women who have experienced harassment at gyms to speak out, despite studies showing that 9 in 10 such incidents go unreported.
In a series of reports released last month, several women detailed their encounters with Robert White, a Copper Sky gym member, from May 2023 until March 2024, when city officials began investigating the allegations.
Harassment Allegations
One young woman recounted an incident last May when White followed her to her car, making explicit comments and demands. According to the report, White continued to harass her even after she got into her car. Another woman said White’s persistent staring and demands for nude photos forced her to change her workout schedule. In March, White confronted her in the parking lot with vulgar comments.
A third woman also altered her workout times to avoid White, who allegedly made inappropriate comments about her body. A teenage girl stopped attending the gym entirely after White made lewd comments to her. White’s workout partner eventually distanced himself, acknowledging that White should have been banned earlier.
David McLeish, Recreation Superintendent, announced on March 6 that White’s membership was suspended pending an investigation into the multiple harassment complaints. By May 3, Community Enrichment Director Quinn Konold confirmed that White’s membership had been terminated and that the Maricopa Police Department had been notified. As of the publication date, no charges had been filed against White.
Broader Implications
Misty Bitter, Copper Sky Fitness Programmer, noted that many women hesitated to report the harassment for fear of retaliation. Studies corroborate this, showing that more than three-quarters of women feel uncomfortable exercising in public gyms, with over half experiencing harassment.
Nicholas Rizzo, a fitness research director, found that more than 91% of gym harassment incidents go unreported. Female gym members are significantly more likely to be harassed than men, with a notable percentage experiencing groping, verbal harassment, and ogling. Many women alter their routines or switch gyms to avoid harassers.
Addressing the Issue
The Copper Sky Code of Conduct lists verbal harassment, disrespectful behavior, and sexual misconduct among offenses that can lead to a ban. McLeish emphasized the gym’s commitment to safety, encouraging members to report any discomfort to staff, who will then take appropriate action.
The #GymCreep trend, highlighted by numerous media outlets, aims to shed light on the pervasive issue of gym harassment. Dr. Leilani Carver-Madalon, a communication professor at Maryville University, emphasized the importance of documenting and reporting harassment, advocating for long-term solutions over social media shaming.
Conclusion
Copper Sky’s action against Robert White reflects a broader effort to create a safer environment for gym-goers. While social media trends like #GymCreep raise awareness, experts urge victims to report incidents to authorities to ensure proper action is taken.
Code of Conduct at Copper Sky Multigenerational Center:
Misconduct, as defined by the center, includes behavior that violates rules, is illegal or dangerous, or interferes with individual rights. Examples include:
1. Verbal abuse or harassment
2. Bullying, intimidation, threats, and fighting
3. Disrespectful or disruptive behavior
4. Theft, vandalism, and littering
5. Improper use of weapons
6. Substance use
7. Unauthorized facility use
8. Damaging equipment
9. Profanity and gang signs
10. Unauthorized photography
11. Disruptive music without headphones
12. Fraud and monopolizing amenities
13. Inappropriate clothing
14. Consumption of unauthorized food or beverages
15. Indoor rollerblading, skateboarding, or biking
16. Presence of non-service animals
17. Public sex acts and voyeurism
18. Poor hygiene
19. Unsupervised use of fitness floor by minors
Ensuring safety and positive experiences for all members remains a top priority at Copper Sky.