Top DHS Auditor Calls Allegations ‘Distorted’ and ‘Without Merit’

The top auditor at the Homeland Security Department has denied accusations of nepotism, abuses of power and involvement in cover-ups.

In a statement issued Tuesday, Charles Edwards rejected all allegations and said their existence will inhibit the oversight of DHS.

“I am very disturbed that false allegations have been made against me,” Edwards said, “but more importantly, I am very concerned that this matter may negatively impact the important oversight work of the Office of Inspector General.”

Over the last year, the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee has received numerous complaints on Edwards, ranging from getting his wife a high-ranking job in his office to forcing employees to write his Ph.D dissertation. Edwards allegedly played a role in covering up information in the investigation into the Secret Service’s encounters with Colombian prostitutes, flew to Florida on the taxpayers’ dime under false pretenses in order to attend classes and fired employees who attempted to raise awareness of his malfeasants.

Edwards vowed to defend himself against the accusations. He said while those who blew the whistle on his alleged actions “honor no boundaries,” he will follow federal regulations and not publicly disclose protected information in his own defense.

“Allegations can be lodged anonymously by anyone,” Edwards said. “Truth can be distorted to misrepresent circumstances and make them appear improper when they are not.”

Edwards, who issued the statement while on vacation with his family in India, said similar allegations have previously been lodged, only to be dismissed by the Council of the Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency.

“I am confident that the allegations will be shown for what they are,” Edwards said, “completely without merit.”

The Senate HSGAC’s Financial and Contracting Oversight Subcommittee is currently investigating the allegations against Edwards.