Air Force seeks outside advice at Dover mortuary scandal

AF Seeks Outside Advice on Dover Penalties

December 21, 2011
Associated Press
by Lolita C. Baldor

WASHINGTON -- Air Force Secretary Michael Donley is expanding his review of the disciplinary actions taken as a result of the mishandling of body parts at the Dover, Del., military mortuary, and he did not send a completed assessment to Pentagon leaders last week as initially expected.

In a statement Tuesday, the Air Force said Donley is asking a retired general and two experts to review the punishments. And he also plans to wait for the Office of Special Counsel to complete its separate investigation of the matter so he can include that in his review.

The additional steps could delay the final report for weeks. An Air Force spokesman, Lt. Col. John Dorrian, said there is no specific date for its completion.

Asked about the delay, Pentagon press secretary George Little said Defense Secretary Leon Panetta believes Donley is "proceeding prudently and deliberately." He said Panetta expects to review the final report as soon as possible.
read more here