​Gov. Evers, Sen. Baldwin Call for Comprehensive Review of Wisconsin National Guard Processes on Sexual Assault and Harassment

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 14, 2019 
Contact: GovPress@wisconsin.gov or (608) 219-7443

MADISON – Gov. Tony Evers today requested that the National Guard Bureau's Office of Complex Investigations (OCI) conduct an independent, comprehensive review of the Wisconsin National Guard's sexual assault and harassment reporting procedures, investigation protocols, and accountability measures.

The governor's request comes as Sen. Tammy Baldwin has also requested a comprehensive assessment, citing concerns that Wisconsin constituents and National Guard service members have come forward with allegations of sexual harassment and assault, retaliation and inadequate accountability for those who commit sexual misconduct.

"As should be the case in all workplaces, the service members of the Wisconsin National Guard deserve a work environment free from sexual assault and harassment, fear of retaliation for reporting sexual assault and harassment when it occurs, and inadequate accountability for perpetrators of sexual assault and harassment," said Gov. Evers. "My office has been in communication with both Sen. Baldwin and state Sen. Scott Fitzgerald about this issue. I appreciate their leadership and know they share my belief that an independent review of Wisconsin's National Guard's past responses, current protocols, and recommendations for best practices will help us ensure the safety of the men and women in our National Guard."

View Gov. Evers' letter here. View Sen. Baldwin's letter here.

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