US Coast Guard Under Scrutiny for Alleged Concealment of Abuse

The U.S. Coast Guard is facing increased scrutiny over allegations of attempted concealment of past abuse, with Commandant Adm. Linda Fagan facing tough questioning from congressional oversight committees. The focus is on the decision to withhold the Operation Fouled Anchor investigation from Congress in 2018 and high-level accountability actions for that decision. Adm. Fagan stated she had no evidence of official misconduct and is awaiting the outcome of an inspector general investigation.

The committee also questioned Fagan about a report from the Coast Guard Academy’s head of sexual assault prevention, Shannon Norenberg, who resigned in protest. Norenberg alleged that Coast Guard leaders asked her to issue official statements of regret to victims without providing them with necessary paperwork. Fagan promised to meet with Norenberg and ensure past victims have access to veterans’ benefits. The pace of document production for the investigation was also criticized.

Despite promises of support for victims and increased transparency, advocates are unsatisfied with the response from the Coast Guard. Sen. Blumenthal emphasized the importance of truthtelling for the benefit of the nation. Victims’ advocates are calling for more action and justice for survivors of sexual assault at the Coast Guard Academy.

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