NCJ Number
152704
Date Published
1994
Length
39 pages
Annotation
The New York State Commission of Investigation is empowered to conduct investigations in connection with the effective enforcement of State laws, with particular reference to but not limited to organized crime and racketeering, the conduct of public officers and public employees, and any other matter affecting the public peace and safety.
Abstract
The Commission's Statewide investigative powers extend to more than 80 State agencies, divisions, board, and authorities, as well as over 1,600 political subdivisions of the State and the school, water, and sewer districts in New York. Outside of local district attorneys, the Commission is the only independent investigative body with the power to review allegations of fraud, waste, and malfeasance. During 1993, the Commission conducted approximately 25 preliminary inquiries and 14 long-term investigations. During the reporting period, the Commission issued a full-length report on its investigation into the conduct of the Warren County District Attorney, as well as several private reports. In many cases, investigations are launched as a result of citizen complaints, which may allege violations of law, administrative abuse, official misconduct, or conflicts of interest.