"WASHINGTON -- Fish and Wildlife Service Director Dan Ashe failed for more than a year to discipline two supervisors who retaliated against whistle-blowers at an Oklahoma field office, the Interior Department's inspector general says in a harshly worded letter that accuses Ashe of damaging the agency's credibility and integrity."

"Deputy inspector general Mary Kendall said Ashe and other high-level officials ignored months of 'pointed discussions and stern warnings' about the complaints.

Three biologists who reported scientific misconduct had their pay cut and duties transferred, the letter said, while the two supervisors were given what appear to be promotions."

Matthew Daly reports for the Associated Press August 1, 2013. [2]