Maturo's Legal Fees in Sexual Harassment Case Under Debate

East Haven officials and taxpayers are debating if the town should assume financial responsibility for Mayor Joseph Maturo’s legal representation in a sexual harassment case, the New Haven Register reports.

The suit was brought upon by a former town hall employee who filed a complaint with the Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities. The complaint alleges that Maturo made inappropriate sexual advances and comments towards the employee.

According to the Register, the fees of both Maturo’s attorney Hugh F. Keefe and attorney John Conway of Wallingford are being covered by the town.

While it is standard for the town to represent its employees in similar civil suits, officials have said the Maturo should be issued a reservation of rights letter, the paper reports. The letter would inform Maturo that the town would not be financially liable if he is found guilty.

Town Attorney Joseph Zullo told the paper that there is a statute requiring that the town provide defense as not providing legal representation would be contrary to the law. Zullo said the statute implicates the town’s rights as it states that an adverse verdict would allow the town to seek reimbursement adding that a letter would not be necessary.

According to the paper, several officials have demanded that a reservation of rights letter be issued in advance so the town can protect its taxpayers. Republican Town Committee Chairman told the paper the issue would be discussed at Tuesday’s Town Council Meeting.

Read the full story at the New Haven Register.

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