The Radio Host Who Accused Detroit News Anchor of Sexual Harassment Has Been Suspended

By Stephanie Tsoflias Siegel 

Rev. W.J. Rideout III, the Detroit radio host who made sexual harassment claims against longtime Detroit WXYZ anchor Malcom Maddox, which led to his suspension, has now been suspended himself.

Kevin Adell, CEO of WFDF 910AM radio, told the Detroit Free Press that Rideout made claims again Maddox and two other known television personalities without evidence.

“Rev. Rideout was making these accusations and I asked, where are the victims? He had no victims. “My question is where are the standards? What are the journalistic standards? Where are the victims? Former victims? You have to have journalistic standards,” Adell said, adding that he trusted WXYZ — and its owner, E.W. Scripps Co. — to investigate sexual harassment claims. “I don’t want people to use my airwaves to feather a nest for media attention.”

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On December 6, Rideout held a press conference where he claimed WXYZ management was aware of the allegations against Maddox but didn’t take action.

Rideout had no comment for the paper when asked about his suspension. You can read the full story here.

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