A statement from the U.S. Department of Justice clarifies yesterday's appointment of Robert Storch as the agency's first "Whistleblower Ombudsperson." DOJ Inspector General Michael E. Horowitz said, "Whistleblowers play a critical role in uncovering waste. fraud. abuse. and mismanagement and this new position will enable the OIG to continue its leadership as a strong and independent voice within the Department of Justice on whistleblower issues."
According to the press release, the Whistleblower Ombuds will:
- Ensure that whistleblower complaints are reviewed and addressed by the OIG in a prompt and thorough manner;
- Communicate with whistleblowers about the status and resolution by the OIG of those complaints;
- Monitor investigations of retaliation claims that are within the jurisdiction of the OIG; and
- Serve as the OIG liaison to other U.S. agencies with whistleblower responsibilities. such as the Office of Special Counsel. and to nongovernmental whistleblower organizations and advocacy groups.
Horowitz noted that Members of Congress and leading private sector organizations have recognized the important role that an Ombuds can play in dealing with whistleblower issues. "The creation of an ombudsperson position is being recognized as a best practice in this area, and I want the OIG to be at the forefront on these important matters," said Horowitz. (DOJ OIG Press Release.)
What about civilian complaints about DOJ failing to investigate abuse and corruption against private citizens? I had to file a Federal lawsuit because the DOJ refused to investigate one of their own.
ReplyDeleteThey are cherry-picking, as usual.
ReplyDeleteRead all the guidelines like directives from Animal Farm:
"Ensure that whistleblower complaints [that matter - especially if they involve money waste] are reviewed and addressed by the OIG in a prompt and thorough manner;
"Communicate with whistleblowers [that you have recognized and not blown off] about the status and resolution by the OIG of those complaints [the ones that matter to you - hint: color-of-law abuses are a waste of breath];
"Monitor investigations of retaliation claims that are within the jurisdiction of the OIG;" [and can't easily be subjected to deniability or are slam dunks, like those involving stolen money - people care about money, not individual rights - don't waste your time with complaints that can be rationalized as inconsequential, e.g.the total destruction of just one person through government retaliation is not a big deal. ]
etc etc