Phil Murphy

NJ Senate Sets Up Panel to Probe Handling of Sexual Assault Allegation

The news comes a day after Murphy ordered an investigation into how his administration handled allegations against Albert Alvarez

What to Know

  • New Jersey lawmakers are establishing a committee to investigate Gov. Phil Murphy's administration's handling of a sexual assault allegation
  • The news comes a day after Murphy ordered an investigation into how his administration handled the allegations against Albert Alvarez
  • Katie Brennan, the chief of staff at the state's housing agency, told the Wall Street Journal Alvarez sexually assaulted her in April 2017

New Jersey lawmakers say they're establishing a bipartisan committee to investigate Gov. Phil Murphy administration's handling of a sexual assault allegation within state government.

Democratic Senate President Steve Sweeney said Tuesday the six-person committee would examine hiring practices, background checks and "systematic problems."

The news comes a day after Murphy ordered an investigation into how his administration handled the allegations against Albert Alvarez.

Alvarez resigned as chief of staff at the Schools Development Authority this month as the Wall Street Journal began asking questions about the alleged assault.

Katie Brennan, the chief of staff at the state's housing agency, told the newspaper Alvarez sexually assaulted her in April 2017.

She said she pursued charges and recourse within the administration without success.

Alvarez denied the allegations through his attorney.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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