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TWO WOMEN ACCUSE INS ASYLUM OFFICER OF DEMANDING SEX TO APPROVE APPLICATIONS
Two Chinese women have filed a claim against the INS, alleging that an INS officer offered to approve their requests for asylum in exchange for sexual favors.  According to the suit, the officer, Thomas Powell, first asked for $2000 in cash in exchange for the approvals, and when they refused, implied that sex would also ensure the approval of their applications. 

One of the women claims that Powell came to her home, sat on her bed, improperly touched her, and tried to remove her clothes.  Five days later, her asylum application was denied.  The other woman also claims that Powell came to her home, demanded money, and touched her. 

The attorney who is representing the two women says that Powell is currently the subject of a federal criminal investigation.  He has been placed on temporary suspension while the allegations against him are investigated.  According to the attorney, Powell has been under suspicion at the INS for some time.

Both women are seeking $10 million in damages.  They have first filed administrative claims, a necessary first step before a lawsuit can be filed.  If the government does not pay the claim, a suit will be filed.
 
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