PRESS-RELEASE

Omega Press Release

November 15, 2019

Statement from Omega Regarding Allegations Against a Former Seasonal Employee

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We are extremely disturbed to learn that a former seasonal employee of Omega, Gary Pamperien, has been arrested for allegations that he was in possession of child pornography that he allegedly purchased online from an IP address linked to Omega between August 2017 and December 2018. Pamperien was a seasonal "piece rate employee" serving as a massage therapist during part of the time frame indicated in the allegation. He was not employed here November 2017 to April 2018, nor November to December 2018, as Omega is only open seasonally (May-October). His employment ended October 27, 2019. 

Pursuant to our hiring policy, we conduct a multi-state criminal and sex offender search for personnel hires, and during this review for Mr. Pamperien, the report indicated "No Record." The actions attributed to Pamperien are in direct violation of Omega’s values and several written policies addressing conduct and use of electronic resources at Omega. Our staff handbooks specifically prohibit employees from "using Electronic Resources for the transmission or receipt of information in violation of federal, state, or local laws or regulations. Sending, saving, receiving, or viewing offensive material through Electronic Resources is prohibited, including pornography; sexual comments; sexual jokes, or sexual images."

We are following the story as it develops, and hope all the facts come to light so that appropriate and just action can be taken.

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About Omega Institute for Holistic Studies
Founded in 1977, Omega Institute for Holistic Studies is the nation's most trusted source for wellness and personal growth. As a nonprofit organization, Omega offers diverse and innovative educational experiences that inspire an integrated approach to personal and social change. Located on 250 acres in the beautiful Hudson Valley, Omega welcomes people to its workshops, conferences, and retreats in Rhinebeck, New York, and online at eOmega.org.