Academy wrapping up investigation into 'human relations incident'

The Air Force Academy Preparatory School has finished its initial investigation into an “alleged human relations incident” that resulted in at least two suspensions, and expects to release more information the week of Aug. 12.

The Air Force Academy issued a brief press release about the suspensions Aug. 1, and at first refused repeated requests to characterize the reason for the disciplinary action. Later, the academy issued another release that said the alleged incident was not related to sexual assault, sexual harassment or use or possession of illegal substances. The release said academy officials will release the results of the investigation when it is complete.

Maj. Brus Vidal, a spokesman for the academy, said Tuesday that the academy has appointed an experienced investigating official to cross-check the prep school’s initial investigation, which was finished the weekend following the suspensions. Vidal said the investigating official will be finished “in about a week,” at which point the academy will be able to say more about the incident.

“We’re handling this investigation as swiftly as possible, but more importantly, we’re being thorough,” Vidal said.

According to the Aug. 1 release: “Early this morning, U.S. Air Force Academy leaders became aware of an alleged human relations incident at the U.S. Air Force Academy Preparatory School. The Air Force and the Air Force Academy stand for respect and dignity for every individual and we take all such allegations seriously. We are investigating the allegations and the results of that investigation will be released when it is complete. Individuals involved have been suspended from their duties pending this investigation.”

The prep school is designed to prepare young men and women to enter the academy. Cadet applicants who are not accepted to the Air Force Academy may be appointed to the prep school, which is on the same campus as the academy. Those who graduate from the prep school can have a better chance of being admitted to the academy, but admission is not guaranteed.