Mass. National Guard Head Retires After Rape Probe

Gov. Deval Patrick says a federal investigation into a rape allegation against the head of the Massachusetts National Guard was inconclusive and authorities decided not to prosecute him but that the official has decided to resign from his post.

The governor said Maj. Gen. Joseph Carter informed him on Wednesday that he was retiring from the guard, and Patrick said he accepted his resignation.

Carter, the guard's adjutant general, was placed on paid leave in March after informing Patrick that the U.S. Army's Criminal Investigation Command was investigating him for the alleged rape of a subordinate in Florida nearly 30 years ago.

Patrick said in a statement that he had now received the final report from the Army.

"Although the investigators were unable to reach definitive conclusions about the allegations and federal authorities declined to prosecute, the report raises serious concerns about the General's actions and his response to the allegations," the governor said. "It is clear to me that General Carter can no longer serve as Adjutant General."

Carter said in a statement Wednesday he has not seen the report but feels vindicated because the Army did not find the most serious allegation against him credible. He said he is disappointed investigators found probable cause for other alleged offenses.