Drill sergeants at Georgia’s Fort Benning have been suspended during an investigation into sexual misconduct allegations, the U.S. Army said Wednesday.
A female trainee, whose name was not released, reported she was sexually assaulted by a sergeant, an Army spokesman said in a news release.
“Initial review of this incident revealed indications of additional allegations of sexual misconduct involving trainees and drill sergeants,” the Army said. “We take these allegations very seriously, and we will ensure a full and thorough investigation of the facts.”
Fort Benning is located near Columbus, about 125 miles southwest of Atlanta.
The Maneuver Center of Excellence at Fort Benning and the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command are investigating the allegations. The drill sergeants, who were not identified, were suspended from duties and banned from contact with the trainees.
“There is no place for sexual harassment or sexual assault in our Army,” the service said. “Our Army remains committed to maintaining a values-based climate, intolerant of these acts, and to respond appropriately when accusations are made.”
No further details were released pending the outcome of the investigation.
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