The U.S. Secret Service suffered another embarrassing blow on Wednesday, when it was revealed that Xavier Morales, a senior supervisor in the agency, has been placed on leave and suspended amid allegations of sexual misconduct.
NBC News' Kristen Welker reports that Morales has lost his security clearance for allegedly making unwanted sexual advances on a female co-worker on March 31st. His status will remain in limbo until an ongoing investigation determines what took place. Morales was reportedly in line to lead the Secret Service's field office in Louisiville.
A Secret Service spokesperson told NBC on Wednesday, "The Secret Service takes allegations of misconduct and potential criminal activity extremely seriously. This incident was first reported to the USSS Office of Professional Responsibility on Thursday, April 2nd. Subsequent corroborative interviews by Secret Service Inspectors were conducted Thursday afternoon, April 2nd."
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"Director [Joseph P.] Clancy was briefed that same afternoon Thursday, April 2nd. Due to the fact that these allegations involve a GS-15 rank employee, and in accordance with the DHS Management Directive, Director Clancy immediately ordered the USSS Office of Professional Responsibility to contact the Department of Homeland Security, Office of the Inspector General (DHS OIG). On Thursday, April 2nd, the supervisory employee, a GS-15, was placed on administrative leave and their security clearance was suspended. This matter has been accepted for investigation by the DHS OIG," they added.
The Washington Post is reporting that Morales allegedly told his accuser that he was in love with her and wanted to have sex with her and when she refused, proceeded to grab her and tried to kiss her.
This news comes following a slew of bad press for the agency, including allegations of drunk driving on the White House grounds, a series of embarrassing security breaches that could have potentially put the first family in danger and the solicitation of prostitutes while stationed abroad during a presidential business trip.