Dec 18, 2007 10:48 pm US/Eastern
Feds Probe Brookline Water Department
Sources: 3 Suspected Of Seeking Kickbacks From Contractors
BROOKLINE (WBZ) ―
WBZ-TV has learned the FBI Is actively investigating alleged corruption inside the Brookline Department of Public Works and, specifically, the town Water Department.
Agents are targeting three municipal employees suspected of trying to get kickbacks from local contractors.
No one was talking on camera, but multiple sources confirm a number of Water Department employees have been testifying under oath as part of an ongoing federal criminal investigation.
The investigation, we understand, could be focusing on town employees soliciting cash payments from contractors.
At this point, no disciplinary action has been taken against any town worker. The town's attorney wouldn't provide any other details, but did give us this statement:
"Federal subpoenas were served on four Water Department employees, and they have appeared and completed their testimony before a federal grand jury."
Neither the U.S. Attorney's Office nor the FBI would comment on the investigation, but WBZ has been told that records and documents have been seized as evidence.
We have learned the town became aware of the investigation in October.
If you're wondering why the FBI is involved in a case like this, there are federal laws against government corruption.
We're told local investigators often call in the feds to avoid any appearance of a conflict of interest.
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