By Andrew Polino
Albany, NY – In the wake of the scandal swirling around Governor David Paterson, two state lawmakers introduced a bill Wednesday that would prevent future political interference in the State Police.
The legislation would give the State Police Superintendent a single 10 year term in office. It would also prevent a superintendent from being fired without a majority vote of the State Legislature.
State Senator Liz Krueger says accountability would be enhanced under their bill.
"Too often, superintendents have confused their responsibility to the public with their desire to please a Governor," said Krueger, a Manhattan Democrat. "Unlike an agency or authority, who follows the direction of an executive, the State Police must maintain a level of independence from the political needs of whomever occupies the Governor's Mansion, as well as accountability to the people of this state."
It's alleged that Governor Paterson asked a member of his State Police detail to pressure a woman assaulted by one of his top aides to drop the charges. Superintendent Harry Corbitt resigned in the wake of the scandal.