Liberia: UN confirms death of staffer under investigation for alleged abuse of minors

The United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) today reported the death of one of its civilian staff members who was under investigation for alleged sexual exploitation and abuse of minors.

Dale Fosnight, a United States national, died on 24 August at his home in the capital, Monrovia, according to a statement issued by the Mission, which added that the circumstances of his death are being investigated.

The staff member was the subject of an investigation into allegations of sexual exploitation and abuse of minors.

“The United Nations takes all allegations of sexual crimes against children extremely seriously and is committed to preventing this abhorrent practice, in compliance with the Secretary-General’s zero tolerance policy,” the Mission said.

While the Mission is cooperating fully with the Liberian Government’s investigation into the allegations, the UN, in accordance with its own policy concerning allegations of staff member misconduct, also conducts an independent investigation.

“UNMIL reiterates strongly that it is the UN’s policy and practice to promptly investigate every single allegation of misconduct by its staff and to take appropriate action if a staff member is found guilty.”