U.S. Rep. Charlie Crist said his office has received complaints from Bay Pines employees alleging discrimination, abuse of power, harassment and retaliation.

WASHINGTON, DC – Continued claims of abuses at the Bay Pines VA health system have prompted U.S. Rep. Charlie Crist to publicly call for a report on an investigation into the claims.

In a video statement, Crist said he reported the allegations to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs in December. At that time, he asked for an investigation. But since then, Crist said he has continued to receive complaints from employees at the Bay Pines VA Healthcare System. Those allegations range from claims of discrimination and harassment to abuse of power and retaliation.

“Upon receiving new reports, I am publicly calling for action and a status update on the investigation,” Crist said Wednesday (April 11). “Our veterans deserve the very best and I am deeply concerned with what we are continuing to hear on the ground from the people who work there. the need for urgent action is clear. This is about protecting our veterans and those who care for them.”

Crist said he has sent the new allegations to the VA’s Office of Accountability and Whistleblower Protection along with a letter asking for an update on the investigation.

Crist, D-St. Petersburg, represents Florida’s 13th Congressional District, which includes south and mid-Pinellas County.

To watch Crist’s video statement, click here.

For information about Crist, go to crist.house.gov.

Photo is screen grab from video. Video courtesy of U.S. Rep. Charlie Crist.

Charlie Crist | Veterans | Bay Pines | Bay Pines VA | Tampabay News

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