Navy captain loses command over misconduct claims

SAN DIEGO (AP) — The commander of a guided-missile destroyer has been relieved of command while the Navy investigates allegations of misconduct.

The San Diego-based Third Fleet says Cmdr. Jay Wylie of the USS Momsen was relieved Wednesday due to what's termed "loss of confidence in his ability to command." He was reassigned to a San Diego post.

A fleet spokeswoman, Lt. j.g. Beth Teach, says she doesn't have details about the allegations.

The Momsen is part of Destroyer Squadron 9, currently in homeport in Everett, Washington.

Wylie is the second Navy officer removed from a command in less than a week.

Capt. Donald Hornbeck, commander of Destroyer Squadron 1 in the Arabian Sea, was removed Saturday while the Navy investigates allegations that he had an inappropriate relationship.

Teach says the incidents are unrelated.