Investigation reveals misconduct allegations at State College bar. Here are 5 takeways
The Hideaway Electric Speakeasy, a stylish new bar in downtown State College, had a short run before it closed suddenly. Now, after an internal investigation uncovered allegations of misconduct against the owner, the bar has reopened and former employees are concerned about what happens next.
Here are the highlights:
- The speakeasy first opened in late February, but it closed five weeks later. The business claimed it was closing for improvements, but rumors of a more serious reason swirled online.
- An internal investigation by the company’s lawyers found credible evidence of accusations against the owner, Michael Fullington Jr. He was accused of inappropriate touching and intimidating behavior toward staff. Fullington strongly refutes the allegations against him and no formal charges have ever been filed.
- Former staff members were interviewed by the CDT and all requested at least partial anonymity due to fear of retaliation and/or concerns about privacy. They shared their accounts of the owner’s alleged behavior, including inappropriate comments and physical contact.
- A former manager recalled an April 1 meeting where almost every staff member in attendance raised their hand when asked if the owner had made them feel uncomfortable. This meeting led management to contact Fullington’s then-partner on paper, who contacted the company’s lawyers. An internal investigation was conducted, and a two-page summary of the findings were obtained by the CDT.
- The Hideaway has promised changes, including new training and a new anonymous reporting structure for staff. But former employees still expressed worry about what might happen with Fullington still involved.
The summary points above were compiled with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists in the Centre Daily Times newsroom. The full story in the link at top was reported, written and edited entirely by CDT journalists.