Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and former Detroit Free Press editor Stephen Henderson is talking following his Friday termination from the Free Press.
Henderson is making the comments during his "Detroit Today with Stephen Henderson" radio show on WDET-FM (101.9).
His remarks come days after the Free Press terminated Henderson because an internal investigation found inappropriate behavior toward female colleagues stretching back several years. There were no accusations or evidence of sexual assault.
Henderson, 47 and who won the 2014 Pulitzer Prize for commentary for coverage of Detroit’s financial crisis, said Friday he was stunned by the Free Press' decision.
Also Friday, WDET General Manager Michelle Srbinovich said the station will investigate Henderson.
“Despite WDET management repeatedly encouraging staff to come forward with any claims of inappropriate behavior within the workplace, Wayne State has not received any complaints against Henderson during his time serving as a contracted host at WDET,” Srbinovich said.
“However, given the action taken by the Free Press, and our commitment to providing a safe environment for all of our employees, WDET will conduct an independent, station-wide investigation to ensure that our staff has the opportunity to share their concerns and report any incidents that require further examination. Any situation that compromises university policies will be dealt with swiftly and decisively.”
Henderson also hosts “American Black Journal” and is a contributor for “MiWeek” on WTVS-TV (Channel 56).
Henderson’s termination comes amid accusations made against him by Detroit Pastor Rev. W.J. Rideout III.
Rideout also leveled accusations against WXYZ-TV (Channel 7) news anchor Malcom Maddox. Maddox was placed on leave earlier this month amid allegations of sexual harassment leveled by the Detroit pastor.
Rideout, meanwhile, was suspended from his show on WFDF-AM (910) after questions were raised about the validity of his claims of sexual harassment against WXYZ.
The alleged sexual harassment victims referenced by Rideout have not been identified.
cramirez@detroitnews.com