Analysis of VA Investigations of Allegations Involving the Palo Alto VA Medical Center

GAO monitored the Veterans Administration's (VA) Office of Inspector General investigation of allegations made concerning the Palo Alto VA Medical Center. The allegations involved significant increases in the rate of crime, widespread illegal drug use, inadequate support from local and Federal law enforcement agencies, interference by medical center officials in criminal investigations, and reprisals and threats against VA police officers making the allegations. Other allegations were made during the onsite investigation which began in December 1979. The Office of Inspector General completed its investigation on May 23, 1980 and issued a report on its findings.