By DONNA CASSATA
Associated Press
WASHINGTON (AP) - Missouri Sen. Claire McCaskill has put a hold on the nomination of Air Force Lt. Gen. Susan Helms, who is tapped to serve as vice commander of the U.S. Space Command.
McCaskill said in a statement Thursday she wants more information about Helms' decision last year to overturn a jury conviction in a sexual assault case.
In February 2012, Helms rejected the recommendation of legal counsel and overturned the conviction. An Air Force captain had been found guilty of aggravated sexual assault of a female lieutenant.
McCaskill is a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and has been outspoken about the military's handling of cases of sexual assault. Her hold keeps the Senate from approving Helms' promotion.