APA has engaged attorney David Hoffman of the law firm Sidley Austin to conduct an independent review of the allegation made by New York Times reporter and author James Risen that the association colluded with the George W. Bush administration to support torture during the war on terror.
The collusion allegation was made by Risen in his book "Pay Any Price: Greed, Power and Endless War" published in October. APA has a long-standing and strict policy prohibiting any involvement of psychologists in torture and cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment. In his book Risen alleges that APA colluded with the Bush administration, specifically the CIA and military officials, to support the development and implementation of enhanced interrogation techniques that constituted torture.
"Mr. Risen's allegation is highly charged and very serious. It has created confusion for the public and for APA members. This confusion, coupled with the seriousness of the allegation, requires a definitive, independent and objective review," the APA Board of Directors said in a November statement announcing the review.
Mr. Hoffman, who has extensive experience conducting independent reviews and investigations, has full authority to conduct the review and follow the evidence wherever it may lead. A special committee of the APA Board has been established to ensure that Hoffman has access to all people and documents as he deems necessary — and to the degree APA can ensure such access — to complete the review. Members of the special committee are: APA Past President Nadine J. Kaslow, PhD, APA President-elect Susan McDaniel, PhD, and APA Treasurer Bonnie Markham, PhD, PsyD.
Anyone with relevant information on this topic they would like to share with Mr. Hoffman is strongly encouraged to contact him at by email or at (312) 456-8468.
