Ed Henry Accuser Says Her Relationship With Former News Anchor Was ‘Abusive’

Former Fox News employee Jennifer Eckhart has revealed that she was “paralyzed by fear” after the White House correspondent and news anchor Ed Henry allegedly sexually assaulted her.

In an interview with “CBS This Morning,” Eckhart opened up about her time with the media company and revealed that it was difficult to work in an office that continued to “cultivate” an environment where sex offenders were “rewarded” year after year.

“I think it’s safe to say that I was paralyzed by fear when I was working there. I do not know how you could continue to cultivate and foster an environment that rewards sexual predators consistently year after year,” Eckhart said in the interview.

Eckhart and Cathy Areu have filed a lawsuit against Henry, accusing the host of sexual misconduct.

During the interview, the journalist also discussed her first meeting with Henry and how her life took a different turn when the anchor allegedly sexually assaulted her. Eckhart noted that he called her “beautiful” and followed her on Twitter after their meeting.

She further stated that it was a special moment for her that a White House correspondent followed her on the micro-blogging website. However, all her dreams came crashing down when Henry “violently” assaulted her while she was restrained in “metal handcuffs.”

She characterized her relationship with Henry as “abusive” and believed that he had the power to “ruin” her career.

“After we met and we had our photo taken together, he messaged me, ‘Wow, you are way more beautiful in person.’ As a 24-year-old girl, when the chief White House correspondent follows you on Twitter, you, you know, you get stars in your eyes. I felt that he had the power to derail me, to destroy me, to ruin my career. And, I just, I didn't have a voice until now,” Eckhart said during the interview.

In her lawsuit, she also alleged that Henry asked her to become his “sex slave.”

Meanwhile, Areu, who was also present during the interview, claimed that at least four people sexually harassed her during her time at Fox News.

Henry has been fired from his position after an investigation into a sexual misconduct complaint.

“Fox News Media strictly prohibits all forms of sexual harassment, misconduct, and discrimination. We will continue striving to maintain a safe and inclusive workplace for all employees,” Fox News CEO Suzanne Scott and president Jay Wallace wrote in an email to staff.

Henry's attorney, Catherine Foti, has since shared a statement voicing her client's side, claiming that Eckhart “encouraged” a consensual relationship. She also noted that Henry will be coming forward with “actual facts” and “evidence” that will quash all the allegations made by his accuser.

“Ed Henry looks forward to presenting actual facts and evidence, which will contradict the fictional accounts contained in the complaint. That evidence includes graphic photos and other aggressively suggestive communications that Ms. Eckhart sent to Mr. Henry,” CNN quoted Foti’s statement.