DOJ IG: Handling of Sexual Harassment and Misconduct Allegations

HEARING BACKGROUND:

• On March 26, 2015, the Depart of Justice’s Office of Inspector General (DOJ OIG) released a report titled, “The Handling of Sexual Harassment and Misconduct Allegations by the Department’s Law Enforcement Components.”
• The DOJ OIG found systemic issues with the handling of sexual misconduct allegations, including allegations not being reported to headquarters, and disciplinary actions that did not adequately address the solicitation of prostitutes in jurisdictions where the conduct is legal or tolerated.
• Among other things, the report described allegations that Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agents engaged in “sex parties” that involved prostitutes hired by drug cartels in Columbia.
• After the DOJ OIG released its report, Attorney General Eric Holder issued a memo to DOJ personnel stating that employees are “prohibited from soliciting, procuring, or accepting commercial sex.”
• Due to a lack of cooperation from the DEA and FBI, the DOJ OIG also noted that relevant information was difficult to obtain during their investigation.