Danbury Official Under Scrutiny For Alleged Unauthorized Office Access

DANBURY, CT — City officials have announced an investigation of a city council member who allegedly tried to gain unauthorized access to areas of City Hall in April.

In a news release from the Mayor's Office Thursday evening, officials said 4th Ward Councilman Joe Britton, accompanied by an unknown woman, tried to access secured areas of Danbury City Hall during the evening hours of Saturday, April 15.

The allegations came following the City of Danbury's quarterly security review, which indicated that Britton and the woman entered the Office of Corporation Counsel.

"City Councilmen and members of the public do not have access to the Office of Corporation Counsel due to the highly confidential, privileged information and records contained within the department," according to the statement from the Mayor's Office.

Data from Britton’s key card record for the evening of Saturday, April 15, reproduced on the news release, indicates he attempted to access the back door of Mayor Dean Esposito's office at 5:50 p.m., and was denied.

Roberto Alves, Democratic candidate for mayor, said in a statement, "I am incredibly disappointed in the allegations that have come to light about Councilman Britton. It is important, regardless of political affiliation, that everyone is held accountable for their actions. Especially our elected leaders. I am hopeful that both parties are transparent and forthright during the investigation, and with the public, into the events of April 15th."

Responding to the announcement of the investigation, Britton said, "I was in City Hall that Saturday afternoon with my City-issued ID badge and my City-issued City Hall access key. As requested by the City, I will meet with City officials to discuss this matter in detail. I intend to be fully transparent. I have nothing to hide."