FBI Makes Case for Decency : Harassment settlement and other acts display a spirit of reform

During his short tenure, FBI Director Louis J. Freeh has taken quick aim at discrimination within the agency and made it clear that he expects employees, including those in supervisory positions, to observe high standards in every area of conduct. It is heartening to see that Freeh’s guidelines apparently represent something more than just words in an agency that has been buffeted by charges of discrimination and retaliation.

The attorney for two female agents in Orange County who alleged that they were fondled and taunted by their supervisor has reported a settlement of nearly $350,000 with the FBI--and personal attention from the top of the bureau.

The allegations in the case cover what has become familiar ground in the depressing litany of harassment tales coming out of various law enforcement agencies around the country. The plaintiffs, Agent Heather Power-Anderson and Boni Carr-Alduenda, say their supervisor, who denies the charges, grabbed them and made lewd remarks over several months in 1992. Among the accusations was that the supervisor kissed one on the back of the neck while she was sitting at her desk and that on another occasion he tore her dress while forcing his hand onto her upper thigh. The women, both recipients of commendations for good work, say they were discouraged from filing complaints and continue to endure cold-shoulder treatment from some colleagues.

The swift settlement of the case and the transfer of the supervisor to another office, along with proceedings initiated recently to terminate him, send an important signal. The FBI is saying it intends to back its commitment to ending sexual harassment with action and money if need be, however deeply ingrained some of the nonsense may be in parts of the institutional culture.