Navy reassigns skipper amid misconduct allegations

SAN DIEGO (AP) – The skipper of a San Diego-based Navy frigate deployed to Central America has been removed from his job amid allegations of personal misconduct during his time in the region.

Navy spokesman Rick Chernitzer said Thursday that Cmdr. Luis Alva was relieved of his duties on Wednesday as the skipper of the Vandegrift due to loss of confidence in his ability to command.

Chernitzer declined to discuss details of the allegations other than to say they stem from his time during the current deployment.

Chernitzer says Alva will be flown back to San Diego where he will be temporarily reassigned to the staff of the Destroyer Squadron 23.

The Vandegrift left for Central America in May to participate with other nations in combatting drug trafficking.

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