Jillian Kay Melchior reports for National Review Online on the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency’s questionable response to allegations of sexual misconduct against some of its employees.
Most companies would fire employees caught patronizing prostitutes on the job; the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) gives them a bonus.
A new report by the Department of Justice inspector general (IG) found that in at least ten instances, DEA employees involved in egregious sexual misconduct kept their jobs and received performance bonuses in violation of agency policy.
One DEA agent, a frequent john, allegedly brought prostitutes to government-leased buildings, even assaulting one woman after they argued over her pay. He received a two-week suspension, promptly got a $1,500 bonus for his work, and is currently employed at DEA offices in the U.S.
At least five other DEA agents received short-term suspensions and thousands in performance awards after being accused of attending sex parties at government-leased quarters, according to the report.
Additionally, a DEA regional director raked in more than $68,000 in bonuses in the past five years, despite failing to report similar escapades with prostitutes on the part of his subordinates. He didn’t even receive formal discipline, and he remains at his overseas post to this day.