Peace Corps Director Apologizes To Family Of Murder Victim After ABC News Report

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Jan. 18, 2011

Peace Corps Director Lauds Assaulted Women's Courage

As part of the ABC News report, Chief Investigative Correspondent Brian Ross also talked to a half dozen female volunteers who said that after they were sexually assaulted the Peace Corps response was incompetent and insensitive. In his statement, Williams lauded the courage and strength of the women who spoke about sexual assaults, and said their stories were "heartbreaking."

"Since their service," said Williams, "Peace Corps has improved sexual assault prevention procedures and practices, and we will continue to be responsive to the victims of assault and provide comprehensive care."

"We will never be able to eliminate volunteers' exposure to crimes overseas, but we will work continuously to maximize the safety and health systems supporting our volunteers. This is my pledge to Americans serving today and to the volunteers of tomorrow."

PHOTO Kate Puzey, says agency personnel set her up to be murdered by revealing her role in the dismissal

Handout

The family of a 24-year old Peace Corps... View Full Caption

Peace Corps Worked to Keep Scandal Quiet Watch Video

Women Raped While in the Peace Corps Watch Video

Home Video of Peace Corps Volunteer Before Murder Watch Video

CLICK HERE TO READ WILLIAMS' FULL STATEMENT

But on-line criticism of the Peace Corps after the ABC News report included the tweeted observation by Windowfog that Williams had not extended an apology to the six survivors of sexual assault who were interviewed by Brian Ross.

"Nowhere in either Peace Corps letter or statement did they apologize to the rape victims who felt abandoned, ignored or suppressed," wrote Windowfog.

CLICK HERE TO WATCH AN EXTENDED INTERVIEW WITH THE WOMEN and CLICK HERE TO VIEW A SLIDESHOW ABOUT THE WOMEN