New Justice position focuses on whistleblowers

WASHINGTON (AP) -- The Justice Department's inspector general has appointed an experienced federal prosecutor to ensure that whistleblower complaints are addressed quickly and thoroughly and that investigations of retaliation claims are closely monitored. As whistleblower ombudsman for Inspector General Michael Horowitz, Robert Storch will work within the Justice Department to educate employees about the importance of whistleblowers in uncovering any waste, fraud, abuse and mismanagement. Horowitz said that through the newly created position, department officials will be alerted to the possible repercussions of retaliation against whistleblowers. Horowitz said the ombudsman will serve as a liaison to other federal agencies with whistleblower responsibilities and to private whistleblower advocacy groups. Storch became counselor to the inspector general in July and has been a federal prosecutor for 25 years. Published: Fri, Aug 10, 2012