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Wright-Patt Major General Under Investigation For Alleged Misconduct

91.7 WVXU | By Tana Weingartner

Published January 16, 2020 at 12:22 PM EST

Then-Brig. Gen. William T. Cooley (center) salutes after assuming command of the Air Force Research Laboratory during a ceremony in the National Museum of the United States Air Force May, 2, 2017.

The head of the Air Force Research Laboratory at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base has been relieved of his duties.The Air Force reports Maj. Gen. William Cooley was removed from command Jan. 15 because of "a loss of confidence in his ability to lead, related to alleged misconduct."

The news release does not detail the type of alleged misconduct but says the allegations are under investigation.

"The Air Force takes any misconduct allegation seriously," says Gen. Arnold W. Bunch Jr., commander of Air Force Materiel Command headquartered at WPAFB. "I expect our leadership to uphold the highest standards and live up to the Air Force's core values."

According to the Air Force, Bunch determined a new leader was needed "to ensure good order and discipline."

He's appointed Brig. Gen. Evan Dertien to serve in Cooley's place. Dertien most recently served as director of the Material Command's air, space and cyberspace operations.