EPA Further Rebuts Watchdog Claims of Poor Forensics Unit Morale

The EPA on Thursday added to its rebuttal to a report from the agency’s internal watchdog that alleged low morale within its enforcement unit.

The Environmental Protection Agency inspector general’s audit quoted current and former National Enforcement Investigations Center (NEIC) staffers saying the office is characterized by a “culture of fear” and an “us-versus-them mentality between management and staff” that has led to widespread staff departures.

The agency said in the report that it disagreed with some parts.

• The report gives “little attention” to the efforts by the Office of Criminal Enforcement, Forensics, and Training to timeliness and customer communications ...