A Naval Academy midshipman?s career has been “sullied unfairly” by an accusation of a rape that military officials now say may have never occurred, according to family members.
A report by a naval investigative officer said there is not enough evidence to court-martial Midshipman Mark Calvanico, 21, of Seacaucus, N.J., on the allegations that he raped a female midshipman in her room last October.
“Since this started our family has been living a nightmare,” said Regina Durazzo, Calvanico?s aunt.
“Mark?s grades have been compromised since this started, given the severity of the allegations ? he has been terrified and yet he has had to continue with his studies and the responsibilities in spite of these allegations.”
The female midshipman claimed Calvanico came into her room several times before holding her down and raping her.
Lt. John Clady wrote in the May 5 report that the alleged victim?s “version of the events is inconsistent against all other evidence in this case, specifically the accounts of her roommate ? and the almost complete lack of physical evidence to support her allegations of rape.”
During a preliminary hearing last month, Naval Criminal Investigative Service agents said there was no evidence of forcible rape.
However, Clady said enough evidence remains to move forward with disciplinary action against Calvanico on other charges, including being drunk and disorderly and conduct unbecoming of an officer for sending a photo of his penis to the female midshipman?s cell phone.
Clady?s report is being reviewed by Vice Adm. Jeffrey Fowler, superintendent of the academy who ultimately decides what action to take against Calvanico.
Academy officials declined to comment.
Dickmann?s autopsy still pending
Meanwhile, the academy continues to investigate the death of Midshipman 4th Class Kristen Dickmann, 19, of Kennett Square, Pa., who was found not breathing May 5 by her roommates in her bed at Bancroft Hall. Dickmann was pronounced dead later that day at Anne Arundel Medical Center.
Autopsy results were still pending Tuesday, according to the Chief Medical Examiner?s Office. Family members said she was a healthy young woman and an athlete who avidly abided by academy rules against drugs and alcohol.
Dickmann was honored during a funeral ceremony at the Naval Academy Chapel in Annapolis May 14 and then laid to rest at the academy?s cemetery.
