The U.S. Air Force is investigating the former commander of the Wisconsin National Guard after allegations that he improperly opened an internal sexual assault investigation during a federal review of the Guard’s sexual assault protocols.

Maj. Gen. Donald Dunbar resigned at the request of Gov. Tony Evers in December, after a report from the National Guard Bureau found the Wisconsin National Guard had mishandled sexual assault complaints. The report found that the Wisconsin National Guard’s policy for conducting in-house investigations — instead of going to an outside agency, like local police — violated federal rules.

The Associated Press confirmed that Dunbar is under investigation by the Air Force. Evers' office told the Associated Press the National Guard discovered that Dunbar had improperly launched a sexual assault investigation during the review that would eventually push him out.

Evers and Democratic U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin initially called for that review.

Sign up for daily news! Stay informed with WPR's email newsletter.

In response to the Air Force investigation, Baldwin’s office said in an email the senator "supports the National Guard Bureau referral to the (Air Force) Inspector General and she looks forward to a report on the investigation when it is completed."

State Rep. Chris Taylor, D-Madison, who has been vocal about sexual assault issues within the Wisconsin National Guard, said the focus needs to be on those who reported assaults.

"Their allegations have to be very thoroughly investigated, and they have to be afforded some justice," Taylor said.