Community Corner
Head of State's National Guard Resigns After Report on Rape Allegations Released
Gov. Patrick called the resignation a needed but disappointing end to Carter's career.
After months of calling rape allegations as untrue and part of a smear campaign against him, the commander of the state's National Guard resigned in light of a army report stating he likely committed conduct unbecoming of an officer.
The investigation, however, stopped short of finding probable cause that Gen. Joseph Carter raped a subordinate in 1984, as his accuser alleges. The statute of limitations on any possible criminal case has expired.
Instead, investigators said they believe Carter inappropriately touched the woman and then lied about it.
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On Wednesday Carter agreed to resign and Gov. Deval Patrick announced the decision, saying that it was the right one to make but a "disappointing" end to Carter's 30 years of service.
"The report raises serious concerns about the General’s actions and his response to the allegations," Patrick said. "It is clear to me that General Carter can no longer serve as Adjutant General.
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General Leon Scott Rice will continue to serve as the interim TAG, the governor announced.
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