Milwaukee City Wire

The U.S. Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations (PSI) has sent a letter to Admiral Linda Fagan, United States Coast Guard Academy Commandant, demanding immediate action in response to an ongoing inquiry into sexual assault and harassment at the Coast Guard Academy. The demand comes after a recent hearing held by PSI, during which current and former Coast Guard Academy cadets testified about their experiences of sexual assault, sexual harassment, and retaliation.

In the letter, PSI Ranking Member Ron Johnson and Chairman Richard Blumenthal addressed the issue of a "culture of cover-up" within the Coast Guard that has allowed sexual assault and harassment to persist for decades. They emphasized the need for accountability and systematic change within both the Coast Guard and the Academy to address past failures and ensure the protection of future cadets.

The senators expressed their expectation that Admiral Fagan and the Coast Guard would fully comply with the Subcommittee's inquiry, providing all requested documents and information without delay. They warned that failure to do so would result in the Subcommittee utilizing other means to ensure compliance with congressional oversight.

This inquiry into the Coast Guard Academy's mishandling of sexual assault investigations and failure to disclose the results of such investigations to Congress or the public was initiated by PSI in September 2023. The Subcommittee aims to shed light on the extent of the problem and hold those responsible accountable.

The full text of the letter sent by PSI can be found [here](link to the letter). The Subcommittee is determined to see a swift response and resolution to this matter, ensuring that the Coast Guard and the Academy take the necessary steps to prevent future incidents and protect the safety and well-being of all cadets.

Click this link to access more information: https://www.ronjohnson.senate.gov/2023/12/permanent-subcommittee-on-investigations-demands-swift-response-to-inquiry-into-sexual-assault-harassment-at-the-coast-guard-academy