NEW: Gov. Patrick Accepts General’s Resignation After Rape Allegations

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Wednesday, September 19, 2012

GoLocalWorcester News Team

Governor Deval Patrick accepted the resignation of Massachusetts National Guard Adjutant General Joseph Carter, even after a months-long criminal investigation by the U.S. Army into rape allegations failed to turn up conclusive evidence and federal authorities opted not to prosecute the case.

Although no formal charges will be pursued, Patrick said in a statment that the report raised serious concerns about General Carter's actions and response to the rape allegations.

"It is clear to me that General Carter can no longer serve as Adjutant General. He has informed me today that he will retire from the National Guard and I have accepted his resignation." Patrick said.

"This is a disappointing end to a thirty-year career of service leadership. But we agree that General Carter's resignation is in the best interest of the National Guard and the people of Massachusetts."

According to Patrick, General Leon Scott Rice will continue to serve as the interim Adjutant General, and the Governor said he was confident in the ability of the men and women of the Commonwealth's National Guard to continue service with professionalism and honor.