Authorities investigate allegations of hazing, cheating at USAFA
Two separate investigations are underway at the United States Air Force Academy following allegations of hazing on one of the Academy sports teams and cheating by freshmen cadets.
An email notification, which outlines those investigations, was obtained exclusively by KRDO NewsChannel 13.
The first deals with hazing, bullying, abusive sexual contact, and drug use occurring on the Academy’s lacrosse team.
A cadet separating from the Academy reported similar incidents to administrators on his way out.
According to the email, the Air Force has opened a criminal investigation into the allegations with 15 agents focusing on the issue. It also states that some of the investigators’ interviews corroborate with the allegations.
“I can confirm that there is an ongoing investigation into the conduct of several players on the team. Because that investigation is ongoing, I cannot disclose any further information,” Lt. Col. Allen Herritage, Director of Air Force Academy Public Affairs, said in a statement to KRDO NewsChannel 13.
Herritage also confirmed the second investigation outlined in the e-mail notification. It dives into claims of cheating amongst 13 freshman cadets on basic, periodic knowledge tests. The tests don’t count toward cadet’s GPA but are apart of their graduation requirements.
The memo said an internal investigation has been launched to look into the accusations.
The e-mail notification went on to say that none of the accusations have been confirmed or proven at this time.
Regarding both of the investigations, Herritage said that the Academy takes any allegations like these seriously.
“That’s why these investigations are ongoing, because the concept of accountability is essential, both as we run an institution of higher learning and as we develop leaders who will lead Airmen in the future. Because in the end, America will hold its Air Force accountable for defending this nation,” Herritage said.
Herritage added the Academy will continue to pursue its mission and is devoted to creating a “culture of respect and dignity and instill those values in the men and women who will lead our Air Force of the future.”
