Another incident of workplace assault surfaces in CIA amidst efforts to conceal widespread sexual misconduct

In Leesburg, Virginia, a veteran CIA officer, Donald Asquith, faced allegations of sexual misconduct at an impromptu office party celebrating his 50th birthday. According to prosecutors, Asquith, in a drunken state, made unwelcome advances towards a colleague, forcibly kissing her and reaching up her skirt in front of co-workers. The incident occurred just days after the CIA pledged to address sexual misconduct within its ranks, despite the agency’s lack of transparency on the issue. A confidential 648-page watchdog report noted systemic flaws in handling such complaints but remained classified for national security reasons.

Several women within the CIA have come forward with accounts of sexual assault, harassment, and attempts by the agency to silence them. Even after reporting incidents, some faced retaliation, raising concerns about the effectiveness of the internal complaint process. Asquith’s case has drawn attention due to his extensive overseas service and the brazen nature of the alleged assault, which took place following Director William Burns’ announcement of reforms to enhance women’s safety and expedite disciplinary actions.

Asquith was charged with misdemeanor assault and battery in Loudoun County, Virginia, after an investigation into the incident at the office party. The accuser, a CIA contractor, reported rebuffing Asquith’s advances, leading to the uncomfortable and inappropriate behavior witnessed by other attendees. Despite repeated requests for comment, Asquith remained silent, while his defense attorney terminated the call with the AP.

Amid the ongoing scrutiny of sexual misconduct allegations at the CIA, including criminal investigations, former officer Brian Jeffrey Raymond awaits sentencing for drugging and abusing multiple women. Similarly, an ex-CIA trainee faces a retrial for an assault in the agency’s Langley headquarters. These cases underscore the pervasive issue of sexual misconduct within the male-dominated agency, exacerbated by post-9/11 operational shifts.

Former CIA officer Lindsay Moran highlighted a toxic culture of misconduct within the CIA, suggesting that national security concerns have allowed such behavior to persist unchecked. Despite increased scrutiny and calls for accountability from lawmakers like Senator Marco Rubio, questions remain about the agency’s commitment to addressing and preventing sexual misconduct. Concerns linger regarding the promotion of individuals accused of misconduct, indicating a need for sustained efforts to reform reporting mechanisms and uphold ethical standards within the CIA.