Gov. Ricketts reacts to allegations against Herbster

LINCOLN - Following a Nebraska Examiner story that included allegations of misconduct by governor candidate Charles Herbster against seven women, including State Sen. Julie Slama, Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts issued a statement.

Ricketts: “This is beyond horrible.  Charles W. Herbster should beg forgiveness of the women he has preyed upon and seek treatment.

"Sexual assault is criminal behavior and should disqualify anyone from elected leadership.  I encourage my fellow Nebraskans to respect, support, and stand with these survivors, who had the courage to tell the truth about what happened to them.  These brave women have Susanne’s and my full support.”

13 women serving on the state Legislature also issued a statement in support of the alleged victims.

Herbster, 67, is is accused of groping women outside of their clothes at public events and forcibly kissing one woman.

Herbster fervently denies the claims.