Charleston Coast Guard commander removed

CHARLESTON (AP) — The commander of Coast Guard operations in South Carolina and Georgia has been removed.

Capt. Ric Rodriguez was relieved Monday from Coast Guard Sector Charleston.

Coast Guard spokeswoman Marilyn Fajardo told local media outlets that the commander of the Coast Guard’s 7th district removed Rodriguez because of a loss of confidence in his ability to lead.

Fajardo said district leadership concluded a preliminary inquiry November 19 regarding Rodriguez and undisclosed allegations threatening his career. Officials did not provide specifics but said no charges are expected to be filed.

Rodriguez has been reassigned to Coast Guard Atlantic Area Command in Portsmouth, Virginia.

The sector includes 11 field units in South Carolina and Georgia and more than 1,600 active duty, reserve, civilian and auxiliary personnel.