Army officer faces accused of sexual harrassment, creating hostile work environment

DOD brain injury office chief under investigation

WASHINGTON — The Associated Press has learned that the director of the Pentagon office overseeing the treatment of troops suffering from brain injuries and post-traumatic stress disorder is under investigation for allegedly making unwanted sexual advances and creating a hostile work environment.

The inquiry into Army Col. Robert Saum’s conduct comes just months after his predecessor abruptly resigned. Lawmakers had criticized the office for not moving quickly enough to improve care for troops returning from Iraq and Afghanistan with brain injuries and psychological trauma.

His executive assistant said Saum was traveling and could not be reached for comment.

A Pentagon spokeswoman confirmed that a complaint had recently been filed against Saum relating to personnel management, but she provided no further details.