NMCADSV Stands With Victims and Survivors and Calls for Accountability

The Northern Marianas Coalition Against Domestic & Sexual Violence is deeply concerned by the decision to reinstate the Commissioner of the CNMI Department of Public Safety (DPS) following recent sexual harassment complaints.

We have heard directly from the individuals who filed the complaint and respect their wishes to remain anonymous. We believe them. We support them. We stand with them.

Sexual harassment is serious in any workplace and should be taken seriously when reported. This situation is especially concerning given the high standard of professionalism, integrity, and accountability expected from the highest-ranking law enforcement officer in the CNMI.

The CNMI Department of Public Safety’s own mission and values emphasize “integrity and trust” and call on its members to “act with integrity and to the highest professional standards of behavior.” DPS also states that one of its goals is to “build public trust and confidence in the Department of Public Safety.”

Maintaining that trust should be a priority, particularly for victims and survivors who must decide whether they feel safe enough to report the harm they have experienced. Leadership decisions carry significant weight in shaping public confidence in our institutions, especially when they involve individuals in positions of authority within systems responsible for protecting public safety. Reinstating someone to a leadership position following reports of sexual harassment may erode trust and discourage others from coming forward.

It is also important to recognize that delayed reporting is common in cases involving sexual harassment and sexual violence. Victims and survivors may take time to come forward due to fear of retaliation, concerns about their careers or reputations, trauma, stigma, or uncertainty about how their report will be received. There is no single timeline for when a person may feel ready or safe enough to report harm.

The Northern Marianas Coalition Against Domestic & Sexual Violence remains committed to standing with victims and survivors and advocating for systems where people feel safe, supported, and respected when reporting harm. We encourage leadership across the CNMI to ensure that decisions regarding allegations of sexual harassment reflect a commitment to transparency, accountability, and the safety of those who come forward. We will continue working with community partners and leadership to ensure that safety, dignity, accountability, and public trust remain priorities for the CNMI.

If you or someone you know has experienced domestic or sexual violence, you are not alone. Support is available through the 24/7 Karidat Victim Hotline at (670) 234-5100 or the 24/7 Karidat Sexual Assault Helpline at (670) 838-7233.