Parnell asks for federal inquiry on sex assaults in Alaska National Guard

[unhappycamper]

http://www.adn.com/2014/03/26/3395333/parnell-asks-for-federal-inquiry.html?sp=/99/188/189/288/



Maj. Gen. Tom Katkus has led the Alaska National Guard since 2009 as the adjutant general.

Parnell asks for federal inquiry on sex assaults in Alaska National Guard
By SEAN COCKERHAM
Daily News Washington bureau
March 26, 2014

WASHINGTON -- Alaska Gov. Sean Parnell has called in a federal investigation of sexual assault in the Alaska National Guard, including an inquiry into how the guard's commanders handled reports of rape and other offenses.

Parnell said the federal National Guard Bureau agreed Wednesday to investigate the Alaska National Guard at his request.

The governor oversees the Alaska National Guard and appointed its commander, Maj. Gen. Tom Katkus. Parnell's letter requesting the federal investigation said he wants it to include a look at how Katkus and his aides have handled sexual misconduct allegations within the ranks.

"I am extremely proud of our Alaska National Guard members and their professionalism in carrying out their duties. However, I remain deeply concerned by reports of sexual assaults and other behavior creating a hostile environment and culture within portions of the Alaska National Guard," Parnell wrote the federal National Guard bureau.