Last weekend we published a story about Watkins Glen Mayor Luke Leszyk and allegations of sexual harassment brought by Danielle Matthews.
Matthews is the wife of former sergeant in charge of village police Brandon Matthews.
Following that report, our newsroom filed a FOIL request with New York State Police seeking records related to Leszyk and his personnel file. Specifically, the request was made to address concerns raised by readers: Were any similar allegations (or complaints in general) brought to New York State Police while Leszyk was a trooper.
After submitting the request on February 2, receipt was sent within minutes. However, the response that followed did not appear promising.
“Due to the volume of requests received and currently being processed by this agency, a written response will be sent to you by or before April 7, 2021,” Acting Records Access Officer and Acting Major William Gorman said in an email dated February 2.
However, less than 24 hours later, Major Gorman responded with the following:
“We performed a diligent search of our files but did not locate any records responsive to your request.”
The Matthews family has submitted a Notice of Claim against the Village of Watkins Glen, as well as Mayor Leszyk. They will be seeking damages for alleged abuse of power and sexual harassment.
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