DALLAS (AP) - The longtime head of health and human services in Dallas County has been fired, and an attorney says she’s representing an employee accusing him of sexual misconduct.

County Judge Clay Jenkins said in a statement Thursday that Zachary Thompson was fired a day earlier. Jenkins didn’t give a reason for the termination and a call to his office Friday for further details wasn’t returned.

Attorney Jennifer Spencer said in a statement Friday that her client, who doesn’t wish to be named, alleges a pattern of sexual abuse, harassment, intimidation and retaliation.

Thompson played a prominent role during public health scares in recent years and said last year he planned to retire Jan. 31.

Thompson’s lawyer, Anthony Lyons, says Thompson learned of the dismissal through the media.

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