Army Col. Kathryn A. Spletstoser claims Air Force Gen. John E. Hyten, commander of the United States Strategic Command, sexually abused her multiple times in 2017. The New York Times reports Gen. Hypten, who was recently nominated by President Trump for the position of vice chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, allegedly assaulted Col. Spletstoser during the Reagan National Defense Forum in California, forcing her into a kiss and ejaculating on her.
“I realized I have a moral responsibility to come forward. I could not live with myself if this happens to someone else and I didn’t do anything to stop it,” Col. Spletstoser said when she learned of Gen. Hyten’s nomination for the second highest military position in the United States.
Gen. Hyten denies the allegations and testified alongside Col. Spletstoer earlier this week before members of the Senate Armed Services Committee. This committee is in the process of considering Gen. Hyten’s recent nomination. Sexual assault allegations have long been a struggle within the military, but officials seem to have not found a solution for how to properly address and resolve complaints that arise within the ranks.
To read Col. Spletstoser’s full account in the New York Times, follow the link below:
Sexual abuse survivors sharing their stories not only raises awareness of the prevailing crime of sexual abuse, but helps society work towards change so future generations can be protected from sexual abuse. At Abused in Scouting, we want to provide a place for Scouting sexual abuse survivors to not feel silenced or oppressed by outside forces and institutional hierarchies. We encourage survivors to share their stories, knowing that we are there by their sides to fight for their right to have their day in court and seek healing. If you or a loved one was abused by a Boy Scouts of America volunteer or leader, your voice deserves to be heard, and you are entitled to pursue justice. Contact Abused in Scouting today for your free case evaluation to see if you may be eligible for financial compensation.