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Forest Service Chief Steps Down Amid Sexual Misconduct Allegations

The Department of Agriculture is investigating claims about Tony Tooke’s behavior.

Tony Tooke, the head of the U.S. Forest Service, announced on Wednesday that he was resigning amid allegations of sexual misconduct. The Department of Agriculture had launched an investigation into the allegations after reporting from PBS NewsHour revealed a troubling culture of sexual harassment and assault within the agency. “I have been forthright during the review, but I cannot combat every inaccuracy that is reported in the news media,” Tooke said. “What I can control, however, are decisions I make today and the choice of a path for the future that is best for our employees, the Forest Service and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.”