Allegations Against JP Morgan Executive Questioned

Recent reports suggest that serious sexual harassment claims against Lorna Hadjidini, a senior executive at JP Morgan, were potentially “fabricated.” This comes after a lawsuit was filed by a male subordinate after she joined the leveraged finance team in spring 2024.

The suit, filed under the pseudonym “John Doe,” includes severe allegations against Hadjidini, such as claiming that she turned him into a “sex slave,” threatened his career for rejecting her advances, and engaged in regular sexual assault. Allegations also included elements of racial abuse.

According to further investigation by the New York Post, the male staffer was identified as Chirayu Rana, who is now a principal at the investment firm Bregal Sagemount. Notably, an internal inquiry conducted by JP Morgan reportedly found no evidence against Hadjidini prior to the lawsuit.

In a statement from Hadjidini’s attorney, it was emphasized that “Lorna categorically denies the allegations.” The lawyer asserted that she has never acted inappropriately toward this individual and has not been at the site of the alleged assault.

A spokesperson for JP Morgan mentioned that the human resources department, alongside internal lawyers, had investigated the matter. They reviewed phone records and emails but found no support for the claims. “After our investigation, we believe there is no merit to these claims,” the spokesperson confirmed, noting that while many employees cooperated, the complainant did not participate in the investigation.

Additionally, it was reported that Rana “did not report to Mr. Hadjidini,” clarifying that their relationship was strictly as colleagues within the leveraged finance team, where they engaged in work related to acquisitions and mergers.

It’s important to note that Hadjidini reported to managing director Brandon Grafeo, while Rana was under the supervision of another managing director, John Walter. This setting might lessen the impact of Rana’s annual bonus on Hadjidini.

One colleague described Rana, a former basketball player and Rutgers University graduate, as “socially awkward” but mentioned that he met the expectations needed to stay at the bank.

No trial date has been set yet. The case remains noteworthy since U.S. court filings are protected against defamation claims, allowing the media to report on such allegations as long as they do so fairly and accurately.

Moreover, a close friend of Hadjidini indicated that the accusations have “sullied the honor” of certain officials.