Department of Defense

Question for TAG

What are your thoughts on plausible deniability? Does leadership practice plausible deniability to turn a blind eye to officers or other senior leadership due to fraud, waste and abuse, infidelity, etc. If officer in question is someone they are grooming or otherwise shows a promising career or has an otherwise stellar record/reputation?

Answer

I am not in support of the practice of the concept of plausible deniability by any level of leadership. While the term remains undefined by the Department of Defense, I interpret it as leaders refraining from taking action or investigating potential misconduct. If your question is congruent with my interpretation, I urge you to make an official complaint through whatever channel you deem appropriate. These include, but are not limited to, the chain of command, the State Inspector General, the State Command Senior Enlisted Leader, or contact me directly and I’ll officially look into the matter. Both the State of Hawaii and US Government require ethical behavior from leaders at all levels. I understand the courage it takes to come forward and report wrongdoing, so I thank you for your question and encourage you to report what you know. Mahalo!