COUNTY: Worker suspended in connection with computer investigation

Local News

December 31, 2008

By Mark Scheer<br><a href="mailto:scheerm@gnnewspaper.com">E-mail Mark</a> The Niagara Gazette Wed Dec 31, 2008, 10:21 PM EST

Niagara County officials were tight-lipped Wednesday about an ongoing investigation into the alleged misuse of a computer that has resulted in the suspension of one county employee.

County officials said the matter being investigated by the Sheriff’s Department involves the finding of some objectionable material, possibly involving child pornography, on a computer used by an employee in the Public Works Department.

Edward McDonald, president of Local 182 of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees union, confirmed the suspension of one individual in connection with the case and said the individual in question is part of probe involving a group of individuals who had access to the computer.

“All I can confirm is that there was a county employee suspended and it’s an ongoing investigation,” McDonald said.

Larry Helwig, the county’s director of central data processing, referred all questions to Niagara County Manager Gregory Lewis who, through a staff member, declined comment.

Christian Peck, the county’s public information officer, said only that the matter is currently being investigated by the Sheriff’s Department and the county cannot comment on an ongoing criminal investigation.

“The county views this as a very, very serious matter and will take all the necessary steps to protect the rights of all parties,” Peck said.

Contact reporter Mark Scheer at 282-2311, ext. 2250

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