by Sabrina Salas Matanane

Guam - Former Guam State Clearinghouse staffer Sahara Defensor has issued a statement to clear the record about her alleged role in accusing Lieutenant Governor Ray Tenorio of academic fraud. Defensor in a statement says the recording of a private conversation she had with co-worker Michael Bumagat and Second Lady Naoko Shimizu over the allegations was released on a blog site without her consent.

Defensor states, "We had never accused the Lt. Governor of fraud. We had a concern, sought guidance through the proper channels and when no redress was done, appealed to a higher authority... All we were seeking were assurances that the Lt. Governor was not going to use our work product for his degree requirements."

She goes on to state that she recorded the conversation because she felt uneasy about meeting with Shimizu instead of the lieutenant governor and despite an apology from the second lady several days later, Defensor said she submitted her resignation because she didn't feel comfortable to stay onboard in what she felt was a hostile work environment.

Defensor adds she shared the recording with a few trusted friends, including one who betrayed her trust and confidence.

"I did not authorize the release of this recording and was extremely upset that it happened," she wrote. "If there are lessons to be learned from this situation, it's that you should not be afraid to question potential indiscretions for fear of reprisal and to protect yourself and your reputation even if it means you must leave your job."

READ DEFENSOR'S STATEMENT