NPR editor leaves network after sexual harassment allegations

The chief news editor at National Public Radio has left the outlet following allegations of sexual harassment.

NPR Chief News editor David Sweeney is “no longer on staff,” Chris Turpin, acting senior vice president of news, said in an email to staff, NPR News reported on Tuesday.

“This is a difficult time for our newsroom and I’m committed to supporting all of you as we move forward,” the email said.

{mosads}”I know you appreciate that there are some questions I cannot answer in keeping with our practice to not comment on personnel issues, but I will do my best to address those I can,” Turpin added.

According to the network, at least three current and former NPR journalists filed sexual harassment complaints against Sweeney.

A former NPR producer alleged that Sweeney kissed her unexpectedly in 2002 and another NPR journalist alleged he tried to kiss her as the two were talking about her career over drinks.

NPR editor Lauren Hodges — who alleged Sweeney gave her unsolicited gifts and attention when he worked as her supervisor — said she hopes the outcome of the review “provides a loud, clear message to anyone struggling with harassment.”

“And more importantly, to those who think they can get away with it,” she said in a statement.

A growing number of people in recent weeks have come forward to allege sexual misconduct against multiple public figures, including several people in the media.

NPR News chief Michael Oreskes resigned earlier this month from the network amid sexual harassment allegations against him.