Jen Psaki, U.S. Department of State Spokesperson
Daily Press Briefing
Washington, DC
July 8, 2013
QUESTION: Can I change topic, Guyana? It’s been reported that a U.S. Embassy official has been removed for allegedly being involved in a sex-for-visa scandal. Does the State Department have a comment on that?
MS. PSAKI: I think I do have something. Just give me a moment here. Well, we are aware of the allegations of improprieties relating to a consular officer formerly assigned to Georgetown, Guyana. This Department takes all allegations of misconduct by employees seriously. We are reviewing the matter thoroughly. If the allegations are substantiated, we will work with the relevant authorities to hold anyone involved accountable.
QUESTION: So is he – he’s back here in Washington now?
MS. PSAKI: I don’t have an update on their location.
QUESTION: The report also says that this gentleman is currently been suspended, or has been relieved of his actual duties while this matter has been investigated.
MS. PSAKI: I don’t have any further update on it for all of you. I’m happy to check on that and see if there’s anything else --
QUESTION: Yeah.
MS. PSAKI: -- that I’m able to provide.
QUESTION: “Recently withdrawn from normal duties pending completion of an official investigation.”
MS. PSAKI: Okay. I’m happy to check on that.
