First Selectman Provides Update On Town Official Investigation

GREENWICH, CT — First Selectman Peter Tesei has provided an update regarding an investigation into "concerns brought to the Department of Human Resources" that resulted in Director of Purchasing and Administrative Services Charles Zsebik being placed on paid administrative leave last week.

During the Board of Selectmen meeting Wednesday, Tesei said there was "quite a number of interviews that are taking place." He also commended Human Resources for their "prudent" actions.

"All I can say is that the Department of Human Resources acted prudently as they go about a fact-finding investigation into many complaints that were presented to them and, given their nature, felt this was the most appropriate course of action. I certainly support that," Tesei said.

Tesei also reiterated that Zsebik has not been charged with any wrongdoing.

"There is due process, and I think we all have to take a step back, not just in this case but I think in the world we live, and recognize that people do have due process and that they shouldn't be indicted in the press through opinion makers and people who are not necessarily being transparent," Tesei said. "There's always two sides to every story, so with all due respect to everybody I think we have to see what our outside fact-finding report tells us and then go from there."

On Friday, town officials released a statement through the Office of the First Selectman regarding the situation, which emphasized that Human Resources is continuing its investigation to provide "a balanced review of the circumstances to protect the rights of all involved."

Town officials did not elaborate on what the "concerns" are.

Patch has filed a FOIA request for Zsebik's personnel file.

Below is the statement from Friday in full:

"Director of Purchasing and Administrative Services Charles Zsebik has been placed on paid administrative leave pending an investigation of concerns brought to the Department of Human Resources.

"The Human Resources Department was notified Monday, June 17, by Purchasing and Administrative Services Department employees of their concerns. Human Resources Director Mary Pepe met with additional department employees on both Monday and Tuesday morning (June 18). On Tuesday afternoon, Mr. Zsebik was informed that he would be placed on paid administrative leave pending an independent investigation into those employees' concerns.

"It is a standard employee safety practice to contact the Greenwich Police Department when an employee is requested to leave Town property. However, there was not a need for any police action as Mr. Zsebik left the building on his own accord.

"The Human Resources Department is continuing its investigation and its due diligence to provide a balanced review of the circumstances to protect the rights of all involved.

"It is important to emphasize Mr. Zsebik has not been charged with any wrongdoing."