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BLM reopens probe in hazing allegations

Monday, Oct. 27, 2003 | 9:09 a.m.

The Bureau of Land Management has reopened its investigation into the allegations of hazing and sexual harassment of BLM firefighters in Las Vegas, officials said.

"The bureau has a zero tolerance policy for sexual harassment and related conduct," Kathleen Clarke, director of the BLM, said Friday.

Before any action is taken against those responsible, further investigation will continue, Clarke said.

The initial investigation by the BLM into a late September complaint found that there had been inappropriate behavior, Clarke said.

A woman firefighter with the Las Vegas office of the BLM filed the complaint on Sept. 26, saying she was sexually harassed and hazed while working with a firefighting crew over the summer, Simpson said.

The investigation concluded within a week and the report was turned over to BLM administrators in Reno and Las Vegas, BLM spokeswoman Jo Simpson said.

The hazing consisted of "sophomoric" activities, such as forcing firefighters to do pushups if they failed to meet expectations, Simpson said.

The completed report is under review by Mark Morse, the local BLM district manager, and Bob Abbey, BLM's state director in Reno.

"It will be dealt with," Simpson said.

The woman was part of a fire crew working to protect the forests in the Spring Mountains. Ten employees were at the station, Simpson said.

Two engine captains and eight firefighters worked in five-person teams, she said.

"The allegation said that the fire station climate allowed the hazing to take place," Simpson said.

The BLM won't discuss specifics about the case because it is a personnel matter, officials said.

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