Statement of Peace Corps Director Schneider Regarding Verdict in Gabon Trial
Statement of Peace Corps Director Regarding Verdict in Gabon Trial; Three Men Acquitted for 1998 Murder of Peace Corps Volunteer Karen Phillips
WASHINGTON, D.C., June 24, 2000 -- Peace Corps Director Mark L. Schneider issued the following statement in response to the acquittal today of three Gabonese men charged with the December 1998 murder of Peace Corps Volunteer Karen Phillips in Oyem, Gabon.
"After 18 months, the murderer or murderers of Karen Phillips have not been brought to justice. We find that fact outrageous and unacceptable.
"We also are deeply disturbed that the Gabonese authorities have not yet brought to justice those responsible for the murder of Peace Corps Volunteer Karen Phillips.
"We urge the Government of Gabon to undertake renewed and accelerated legal efforts to find and punish whoever is responsible for her death.
"Our primary concern remains, as always, that Peace Corps Volunteers have a safe and secure environment in which to continue their important development work in Gabon. In light of this situation, we find it necessary to review all aspects of our presence and programs in Gabon."
