CIA officer charged with assault during office birthday party

A veteran CIA officer, Donald Asquith, has been charged with assault and battery following an incident during a birthday party at an off-site CIA office in Virginia last year. The party, which celebrated Asquith's 50th birthday, involved excessive drinking and culminated in allegations that he groped a female colleague and forcibly kissed her despite her repeated refusals. This incident occurred shortly after the CIA had publicly committed to addressing sexual misconduct within its ranks. The victim, a CIA contractor, reported that Asquith made inappropriate sexual comments and engaged in unwanted physical contact, including placing his hand up her skirt. After she attempted to leave, he allegedly blocked her exit and continued to assault her. This case is part of a broader pattern of sexual misconduct allegations surfacing from the CIA, raising concerns about the agency's internal culture and handling of such complaints. A recent internal watchdog report, which was classified as 'secret,' highlighted systemic issues in the CIA's response to sexual misconduct allegations, further complicating the agency's efforts to address these problems. The report's classification has drawn criticism, as it prevents transparency regarding the extent of the issue and the agency's accountability. Asquith's trial is set to begin soon, and it follows other high-profile cases of sexual misconduct within the CIA, including a former officer who drugged and abused multiple women. Lawmakers are pressing for reforms in the CIA's misconduct reporting process, emphasizing the need for accountability and a cultural shift within the agency.