A Milwaukee Fire Department acting lieutenant repeatedly groped a co-worker and gave her low marks on her work evaluation after she complained, according to a criminal complaint charging him with a felony. Michael Peden, 35, was charged Thursday with second-degree sexual assault after his arrest last weekend. He is accused of a pattern of inappropriate and retaliatory behavior, which began earlier this year. Peden works as a heavy-equipment operator. He was assigned as acting lieutenant to Engine 26, located on S. 26th St. near W. Scott St. in May. Peden's attorney, Rebecca Coffee, said he denies the accusations and maintains his innocence.