(KAIR)--Two Kansas Congressional leaders are questioning how a former physician assistant at the Leavenworth VA Medical Center accused of sex crimes gained his employment.

According to a press release issued by the office of 2nd District Congresswoman Lynn Jenkins, she and her fellow Republican, 3rd District Congressman Kevin Yoder, are questioning the screening process used in the hiring of Mark Wisner.

The Horton resident is charged with a felony count of aggravated criminal sodomy and three misdemeanor charges of sexual battery related to his alleged misconduct in 2014 at the Eisenhower VA Medical Center.

According to the press release, Wisner had a police record prior to his hiring, but was able to pass a background check. Additionally, Jenkins and Yoder say he was not given any subsequent background checks.

The two have sent a letter to Deputy Inspector General Linda Halliday, at the Department of Veterans Affairs, to request more information regarding the background check and screening process used in hiring.

Jenkins says the action is taken “to ensure those with disturbing police records are not employed by the VA.” Yoder states that veterans must be protected “from ever having to face abuse like this when they come home seeking help.”

Wisner surrendered his medical license last year after at least seven patients accused him of abusing them. He faces several federal lawsuits accusing him of abuse, but is seeking to have the civil proceedings halted until the criminal case is resolved.

His trial is set for October 31.