Susan Bonk, co-founder and CEO of Precision Weather Solutions (PWS), alleged that Riley, the CEO of Richardson Financial Group and former chair of the Manitoba Hydro board, sexually harassed and assaulted her after investing in PWS’s parent company, Galton Corp. Bonk claimed Riley—who also chaired Galton’s board—harassed and bullied her, and tried to have her fired after she rejected his advances. Bonk is seeking at least $27.53 million in damages. Riley denied the allegations in a statement of defence. None of the claims have been proven in court. (The Globe and Mail, The Logic) 

Talking points: In a statement of claims filed in Manitoba’s Court of King’s Bench, Bonk described several scenarios in which she alleged Riley made unwelcome sexual advances. She claimed she “felt dependent on Riley—a prominent and powerful member of the Manitoba community.” Bonk is also suing Galton board members Charles Loewen, William Watchorn and Robert Silver for alleged negligence and breaching their fiduciary duties. They also denied any wrongdoing in a joint statement of defence. Galton, PWS and Bonk are currently entangled in other lawsuits. The defendants’ lawyer, Richard Schwartz, told The Logic his clients say the allegations are fabricated, and an attempt to “dissuade a long-standing commercial dispute involving the $3.5-million investment made by a group of investors, including Mr. Riley, that is still not fully or properly accounted for.” Bonk’s lawyer, Gillian Hnatiw, told The Logic her client is “resolute in her allegations.”