WASHINGTON – The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) said they are investigating a possible sexual misconduct allegation about its CEO, Wayne Pacelle.

The investigation began last month. The inquiry is being run by Grace Speights, who leads the labor and employment practice of the law firm of Morgan Lewis in Washington, DC.

According to a report by The Chronicle of Philanthropy, the allegations include a sexual relationship between Pacelle and a female employee. HSUS board of directors issued the following statement after the article was published.

“We do not have information that can be shared regarding the investigation, its findings, or board actions at this time,” said Eric Bernthal, chairman of the board of directors. “We believe it is important to deal in substance and not rumors, and our process is designed to ensure confidentiality and fair consideration of these issues.”

A special committee of the board is overseeing the investigation and reviewing the findings.

Humanewatch.org recently discovered that former HSUS-National Council member Arthur Benjamin faced four separate lawsuits for sexual misconduct in the past. HSUS vice president Paul Shapiro was also faced with sexual harassment allegations last week.