580 CFRA – Karlsson’s wife alleges partner of Senators forward harassed her

The wife of Ottawa Senators captain Erik Karlsson has filed an order of protection against the girlfriend of one of Karlsson’s teammates, alleging harassment and cyberbullying.

In an application for a peace bond filed May 4 in an Ottawa court, Melinda Karlsson alleges that Monika Caryk posted hundreds of derogatory online messages aimed at her and her husband. Caryk is the longtime partner of Senators forward Mike Hoffman.

“Monika Caryk has uttered numerous statements wishing my unborn child dead,” Karlsson said in the sworn statement. The Karlssons’ first child, a son named Axel, was stillborn in March.

What happens if an employee’s spouse is being harassed by a co-worker’s spouse? Is an employer obligated to take action in such a situation?

Alex Lucifero, an Ottawa Employment Lawyer and managing partner at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP, joined host Rob Snow on Newstalk 580 CFRA to discuss rights and protections for employees and their spouses when harassment strikes.