Agents leave after Colombia scandal

Published Apr 19, 2012

Share

Washington - Three of 11 US Secret Service employees, who are being investigated for allegations of misconduct over an incident in Colombia that involved prostitutes, are leaving, the agency said on Wednesday.

“Although the Secret Service's investigation into allegations of misconduct by its employees in Cartagena, Colombia, is in its early stages, and is still ongoing, three of the individuals involved will separate or are in the process of separating from the agency,” a statement from Assistant Director Paul Morrissey said.

One supervisor was allowed to retire, another supervisor was proposed for removal for cause, and a third employee resigned, the Secret Service said.

The government is investigating an incident in Cartagena involving Secret Service employees and military personnel in which as many as 21 women were brought back to their hotel, before the arrival of President Barack Obama for a summit.

The remaining eight Secret Service employees continue to be on administrative leave with their security clearances suspended.

“The Secret Service continues to conduct a full, thorough and fair investigation, utilising all investigative techniques available to our agency,” the statement said. “This includes polygraph examinations, interviews with the employees involved, and witness interviews, to include interviews being conducted by our Office of Professional Responsibility in Cartagena, Colombia.” - Reuters

Related Topics: